I have a customer that is interested in purchasing this item and I have a few questions about it. He is currently demoing a Maximus from the Matco rep. He does not like this at all. This is a transmission shop that does general repair as well. He is really wanting to find out what capabilities this tool has when it comes to transmissions. Can it activate solenoids and actuators in the transmissions and more technical options like that. I have looked all over the internet and can't find any infomation specific to his request. If anyone on here can help me out with this, I would greatly appreciate it.
I don't think he is gonna like it if he does not like Maximus. Software is the same I think.
But, I have to say that for GM stuff it's pretty good. Options you choose are just like Tech2. If he is looking for something easier to navigate, then Snap-on is much easier to navigate though. But I think Snap-on products have much less capabilities with a lot more $.
Launch products are very good in my opinion. But each manufactures have different menus. I think that's because Launch try to emulate each OE scanner. Or close to OE scanner. So, that means each brand has different menus.
So, as far as I know, capabilities on Launch scanners are real good. Navigating to get to where you want to be at is kind of tough sometimes.
To whom it may concern, @ realschmitty and whabamdo
YES! The Launch Tech Scan Pad 101 and the Matco Maximus DO share very similar OEM level vehicle specific software, BUT that is ALL because if you notice the Scan Pad 101 Menus are much faster and much more efficient with Android operating system menus just like most smart phones and tablets.
Scan Pad 101 with Android has full BI-DIRECTIONAL controls and loads pages really fast. Hands down one of the fastest loading Android based scan tools on the market. Surprises me how fast, Even if you select to perform FULL SYSTEM scans and ping all available modules in less than one or two MINUTES!! This auto scan will usually take up to over 5-6 minutes on any other Windows based scan tools. And TIME is SO precious.
On the other hand the Matco Maximus is using the now dated Windows operating system, BUT has WAY more add-on optional hardware USB ports.
As compared to the Scan Pad 101 only has one mini-micro USB for charging cable port only!!!
SO, If you will need Advanced Level Diagnostics with Matco Maximus you can add-on optional 4-channel Lab Scope Box and, optional Sensor Simulator Box (my favorite) and also optional Battery/Alternator testing module. These add-on modules use the Optical Cable and or anyh of the two USB ports.
The optional extension ports and Ethernet CAT-5 connection are only on the Matco Maximus which is also nice just in case the wireless WiFi service is weak or unstable.
Please note the Scan Pad 101 only has Wireless WiFi connectivity NO other auxiliary or extension ports!
From our daily experience using the BI-DIRECTIONAL controls for TCM/SMG gear box module live data streams and solenoid activation testing is same for both Scan Pad 101 and Matco Maximus.
Just make sure have all the included adapters and extension cables for some of the older vehicles with separate connectors.
SO, if you plan on adding on the optional Sensor Simulator Box, 4-Channel Scope, or Battery/Charging System modules, try Maximus or Maximus 2.0 with Android which is much more improved as compared to the original Windows based Maximus.
