What is the difference between the Autel MaxiSys Ultra and the new Ultra S2 diagnostic scanner?
1. Hardware Improvements
UPGRADED HARDWARE
- Larger 13.7”Anti-Glare Screen
- Increased Storage (512GB)
- Supports Wi-Fi 6 for High-Speed, Low-Latency Data Transmission
- Enhanced Docking Station with Tablet “Fast Charge”
- 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
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.
