Autel Ultra S2 vs MSUltra

 What is the difference between the Autel MaxiSys Ultra and the new Ultra S2 diagnostic scanner?

1. Hardware Improvements

 

UPGRADED HARDWARE

1. Larger 13.7”Anti-Glare Screen
2. Increased Storage (512GB)
3. Supports Wi-Fi 6 for High-Speed, Low-Latency Data Transmission
4. Enhanced Docking Station with Tablet “Fast Charge”
5. Faster 2.7G 8-Core Processor

• Screen Size and Quality:
  • The Ultra S2 features a larger and sharper screen compared to the older Ultra model. The improved display enhances visibility and user experience, making it easier to read diagnostic data and navigate the interface.
  • The monitor is better, providing a clearer and more detailed view of diagnostic information.
• Size and Weight:
  • The Ultra S2 is slightly larger but lighter than its predecessor, making it more portable and easier to handle during diagnostics.
• Memory:

The new model comes with more memory, which allows for faster processing and the ability to handle more complex diagnostic tasks without lag.

 

2. Software Enhancements

• Network Diagnostics:
  • One of the most significant upgrades in the Ultra S2 is its advanced network diagnostics capabilities. The tool now includes features that help diagnose communication issues between modules in a vehicle’s network. This is particularly useful for identifying problems with module-to-module communication, which can be challenging to diagnose with traditional tools.
  • The topology map feature, which was introduced a few years ago, has been further improved. It now provides a detailed map of the vehicle’s network, showing which modules are connected and on which network they communicate.
• Terminating Resistor Values:
  • The Ultra S2 can now display terminating resistor values for CAN networks. This feature allows technicians to verify the correct resistor values, which are crucial for proper network communication.
• Ping Functionality:
  • A groundbreaking feature in the Ultra S2 is the ability to ping specific modules. This allows technicians to send a signal to a module and wait for a response, similar to how network diagnostics work in IT. This feature helps identify communication issues, such as wiring faults, connector problems, or even module failures, by monitoring packet loss during the ping process.
  • This functionality is particularly useful for live diagnostics, where technicians can manipulate the wiring harness or move around the vehicle while monitoring the ping results to pinpoint the exact location of a fault.

Comparison Summary

Aspect	Autel MaxiSys Ultra	Autel Ultra S2
Screen Size	12.9-inch touchscreen	13.7 inch touch screen
VCI	VCMI 5 in 1	VCMI2 6 in 1
Weight/Design	Standard tablet weight	Slightly lighter, more ergonomic
Memory	256GB	512GB
Processor	Octa-core (2.3GHz Quad + 1.7GHz Quad)	2.7G 8-Core Processor
WiFi	WiFi 5.0	WiFi 6.0
Topology Mapping	Topology 2.0, Basic network map visualization	Topology 3.0, Enhanced with resistor values and pinging
Network Diagnostics	Limited to mapping and standard diagnostics	Real-time resistor values, module pinging
Use Case	Broad diagnostics, ECU programming	Advanced network troubleshooting
Multi-point Digital Vehicle Inspection (AI)	No	Yes

VCMI vs VCMI2

Ultra: comes with 5-in-1 VCMI that integrates VCI, oscilloscope, waveform generator, multimeter, and CAN BUS tester.

Ultra S2: comes with new 6 in 1 VCMI2 that integrates VCI, oscilloscope, waveform generator, multimeter, CAN BUS tester and standalone Remote Expert device.

 

In Sum:
Ultra S2 has new 6 in 1 VCMI2.
The Ultra 2 offers actionable, real-time network diagnostics, cutting diagnostic time compared to the Ultra’s more static topology feature.
The Ultra 2 improves upon the original Ultra with a larger, sharper screen, more memory, slightly lighter weight and possibly a faster processor.

MSUltra S2 adapts AI technology. It supports Multi-point Digital Vehicle Inspection: AI-powered image analysis for auto-detection of dents and scratches.

The Ultra 2 introduces sophisticated network diagnostic tools—real-time resistor value display and module pinging—that enable technicians to isolate communication faults faster and more precisely than the Ultra’s topology mapping alone. These features, described as unprecedented in aftermarket scan tools, suggest the Ultra 2 is a significant leap forward for professional diagnostics, particularly for complex network issues.