1.      What is IDS? 

The Ford Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) is the WDS replacement tool that is made up of the following:  WDS software modified to run on a laptop with XP Pro (SP2) Operating System, a Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) and associated cables, a Vehicle Measurement Module (VMM) and associated cables, and a laptop. 

2.      What can IDS do that WDS can?t?

Having IDS run on a modern laptop allows the technician the ability to browse the PTS website and search SSM's and TSB's.  IDS is also much faster, thanks to the newer hardware platform, and will support future vehicle content.

3.      What is the VMM?

The Vehicle Measurement Module (VMM) is the hardware and cables that provide instrumentation to the IDS.  VMM functionality includes: 

-IGNITION SYSTEM TEST

-FUEL PRESSURE TEST

-FUEL LEAK-DOWN TEST

-INJECTOR FLOW TEST

-SECONDARY IGNITION

-CURRENT PROBE FUNCTIONALITY

-OSCILLOSCOPE

-DIGITAL MULTI-METER

4.      What additional software is required to run IDS?

No additional software is required if you have a current VCM subscription.  IDS software is delivered on a DVD with calibration files.  It will also be available for download through the PTS website.

5.      How do I connect my VCM to a laptop?

Use a VCM to Laptop Cable Kit, Part # 164-R9503, sold through Rotunda.

6.      Can I run IDS on my PTS laptop that is running Windows XP Home?

Yes. Although Windows XP Professional Edition is the only officially supported operating system, IDS runs on the Windows XP Home Edition. As of software release R59 (January 2009) the installation process has been opened up to allow IDS to be loaded onto the Windows XP Home Edition operating system.

To use a Windows XP Home Edition PC with IDS you will need to purchase a VCM to laptop cable.

7.      Can I load other software on my IDS laptop?

We cannot validate other applications with IDS.  Please do this with caution.  If you find an application has adversely affected the operation of IDS, uninstall the application.  You may be required to uninstall and reinstall IDS.

8.      Will I need high-speed Internet connection for IDS?

A high speed wireless internet connection is highly recommended for the utmost productivity.  IDS can use the connection for updates and flash files, and the technician will have quicker access to service information and dealership network services.

9.   Should I update the VCM software when IDS asks?

Yes.  We will occasionally provide improvements to the VCM software or PROM.  When asked, please perform VCM PROM updates. 

10.   How do I check for updates on the web?

Select Software Update from the System Utilities page.

11.   Can IDS print vehicle sessions as WDS does?

Yes.  Use the "select" button.

12.   Can I use my VDR with IDS?

Yes. Your WDS Vehicle Data Recorder is compatible with IDS. However, a unique cable and power supply are required to attach the VDR to the laptop. See Rotunda Tools to purchase the IDS VDR cable and power supply. 

13.   Why do 3rd party firewalls interfere with IDS operations?

14.  Should I perform any regular maintenance on my laptop?

Consult your PC's User's Guide for any specific instructions on maintaining your laptop. In addition, you can find information regarding PC maintenance on your laptop. This can be achieved by following these steps: On your desktop select Start>Help and Support>Performance and Maintenance. Here you will find tips on general PC maintenance.

15.  Will IDS be affected if I perform a system restore on my laptop?

In the instance that a System Restore is performed an uninstall and reinstall of IDS is necessary.

16.  How can I Purchase Toughbook replacement parts & accessories?

17.  How can I improve battery useful life - Battery life is short?

Battery life can be improved by running the Battery Recalibration utility. This process will take approximately 4 hours to complete.

To launch the utility, go to Start->All Programs->Panasonic->Battery Recalibration.

(Note: Perform Battery Recalibration once every 3 months, doing it frequently will degrade the battery life)

18.  How can I increase battery life on CF-18 Toughbook - Battery Maintenance Tips?

The battery is a consumable and, as such, its performance will gradually deteriorate. This deterioration is accelerated under the following conditions.

• When the battery is charged.
• When the temperature inside the battery is high.

• Recalibration is recommended once every 3 months (see FAQ: How can I improve battery useful life)
• Charge the battery in a temperature range of 10°C to 30°C {50°F to 86°F}

• Charging after the battery has discharged completely is recommended.

• Charging the battery while the computer is powered off is recommended. If the computer?s power is on, the battery temperature rises due to the effects of heat from the CPU and other components. We recommend that you only charge the battery when the computer is powered off.

19.  Can I operate IDS on the Windows Vista Operating System?

No, all work to make IDS function on Vista has been suspended.

20.  Can I operate IDS on the Windows 7 Operating System?

No, Windows XP Professional will remain the approved operating system as long as it's available in the retail market.

IDS Wireless Functionality

1.      What are the requirements for wireless IDS?

1.      What is PDS? 

PDS (Portable Diagnostic Software) is a link-based small service tool that uses a Pocket PC, VCM and software to perform a subset of the IDS diagnostic functionality. 

2.      What is the difference between PDS and IDS?

PDS runs link-based diagnostics on a Pocket PC.  IDS provides that same functionality plus the measurement and Internet capabilities and runs on a laptop platform. 

3.      Can I use VMM with a Pocket-PC?

No.  The PDS (Pocket-PC with a VCM) is a link-based small service tool only and does not have the specific hardware to connect to a VMM.

4.      Can I install and run PFM on my IDS laptop?

Yes.  You can run IDS and PFM (PDS File Manager) on the same machine. 

5.      I  already have a VCM for PDS. Can I use it for IDS?

Yes.  The VCM can be used with IDS.

6.      Can I load DBS on my IDS laptop?

No.  Please do not load DBS (Diagnostic Base Station) on a machine that is used for IDS.  Conflicts will occur between the two products.  

7.      How do I convert my NGS+ VCM to use with IDS?

The VCM must be reprogrammed by the NGS+ Diagnostic Base Station (DBS) PC to an NGS+ level of 24.3 or higher. Place the VCM in the NGS+ Caddy and connect it to your DBS PC for reprogramming.  When complete, remove the VCM from the caddy for use with IDS.

1.  How many VMMs should I purchase?

Examine your shop needs, but we recommend one to replace every existing WDS.

2.  Which laptops / computers can I use with the VCM and/or VMM?

3.  Can I use an existing VCM I already own, or do I need to purchase a new one?

Any VCM can be used with a Ford-approved laptop and VMM. However, a new cable is needed to connect the VCM and laptop. Order a VCM to Laptop Cable Kit from Rotunda, Part # 164-R9503.

4.  How do I convert my PDS to IDS?

Order  a VCM to Laptop Cable Kit from Rotunda, Part # 164-R9503. Load the IDS software onto an approved laptop with XP Professional SP3, plug the USB to Ethernet cable to the laptop and the VCM.