The EFI Live FlashScan V2 is a popular tuning and diagnostics tool for diesel vehicles. There are two versions available: black and blue. While both offer similar functionality, there are key differences that may influence your purchasing decision. This article outlines those distinctions to help you choose the right FlashScan V2 for your needs.
Key Differences Between Black and Blue EFI Live FlashScan V2
The primary differences between the black and blue EFI Live FlashScan V2 units lie in onboard memory, SCI protocol support, and USB power interface.
Onboard Memory
The black FlashScan V2 features 4MB of onboard flash memory, while the blue version boasts 8MB. This difference is primarily relevant if you plan to store tunes and datalogs directly on the device without utilizing an SD card. With the affordability and widespread availability of SD cards, this difference is less critical for most users.
SCI Protocol Support
The blue FlashScan V2 supports the SCI protocol, designed for older Cummins diesel engines. However, EFI Live currently has no plans to offer support for this protocol, rendering this feature largely inconsequential for most users.
USB Power Interface
A significant difference lies in the USB power interface. The blue FlashScan V2 incorporates a more robust, hardened USB power interface. This enhancement minimizes the risk of short circuits caused by floating grounds and ground loops between the vehicle chassis and the laptop when connected via the FlashScan’s USB. While the black FlashScan V2 is susceptible to damage from these electrical issues, especially when the laptop is powered by a vehicle inverter, the blue version offers increased protection.
It’s crucial to note that using a power inverter to power your laptop while it’s connected to a vehicle via a FlashScan or AutoCal is strongly discouraged, regardless of whether you’re using the black or blue version.
Minor Circuit Board Updates
Besides the mentioned differences, there have been minor updates to the circuit board throughout the FlashScan V2’s production. These updates primarily involved component part number revisions and didn’t significantly alter functionality.
Serial Number Variations
The 10-digit versus 12-digit serial number discrepancy is unrelated to the color distinction between black and blue FlashScan V2 units. The serial number change occurred during the production of black FlashScan V2s, well before the introduction of the blue version.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right EFI Live FlashScan V2
For most users, the blue EFI Live FlashScan V2 offers advantages due to its hardened USB power interface and larger onboard memory. However, if you plan to use an SD card and avoid powering your laptop via a vehicle inverter, the black version remains a viable option. Consider your specific needs and usage scenarios when making your purchase decision.
