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Software

Introduction

The software bundle includes three components:

1. Invent Commander

The Windows application for managing Invent Jetronic ECU allows you to handle calibrations, update firmware, and record log files.

2. Firmware

This program runs in the ECU and performs complex measurements and calculations to control fuel injectors, the idle valve, and other devices. It functions like the ECU's operating system.

The firmware can be updated to provide improvements and bug fixes.

Calibrations are necessary for the firmware to operate.

3. Calibrations

This is a set of options and tables.

It instructs the firmware on how to operate with a specific engine, describing the engine's characteristics, sensors, valves, injectors, and more.

Commander overview

Connection to the ECU

Bluetooth

Bluetooth is the preferred method for connecting to the ECU. Follow these steps to connect to the ECU's Bluetooth interface:

  • Pair with the 'Jetronic' device using the PIN code '0000'.
  • Navigate to Start > Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices.
  • Scroll down to Related settings and select More Bluetooth options.

  • Go to the COM Ports tab to see the assigned OUTGOING COM port.
  • Use this port for communication.

Info

When the ignition is turned off, the connection is lost, but the commander remains in the Searching state and does not detect this change. To reconnect, you must manually toggle the connection. This is the limitation of the Windows OS.

K-Line

Utilize the K-Line connection if you encounter issues with Bluetooth, as it is primarily used for interfacing with the trip computer. Additionally, it is advisable to update the firmware using a K-Line cable to prevent the vehicle from becoming immobile due to an update failure.

Connection procedure

Follow these steps to connect to the ECU:

  1. Select the USB COM port in the commander and press "ON."
  2. If using Bluetooth, wait a few seconds for the connection to establish. The K-Line connection is instantaneous.
  3. Upon successful connection, the commander will read all calibrations from the ECU.

Warning

If you encounter a Commander version don't correspond to firmware version error, disconnect immediately and download the correct Commander version from our website. Using the incorrect version of Commander can disrupt calibrations and prevent the engine from starting.

Working with calibrations

Calibrations are stored in the ECU, and without them, the ECU cannot start the engine.

If you modify the calibrations, you must update them in the ECU.

Calibrations can also be saved in files. It is advisable to save the calibrations to a file after making any changes.

Info

The Commander saves a record of all changes to the ECU in the history folder. If an accident occurs, you can restore calibrations from the history.

How to load calibrations from the file to the ECU

  • Connect to the ECU.
  • Select Load calibrations from the file and open the desired file.
  • Make any necessary changes.
  • Select Save calibrations to the ECU.
  • Wait for the writing process to complete.

How to change calibrations in the ECU

  • Connect to the ECU.
  • Verify that calibrations are successfully read from the ECU.
  • Select the Autosave checkbox to apply all changes immediately.
  • Modify the calibrations as needed.
  • Be aware that the Autosave checkbox will blink red while saving to the ECU.
  • Once finished, save the calibrations to a file.

Log recording

Log files are useful for engine tuning and troubleshooting. They are stored in the Logs folder.

How to record a log

  • Connect to the ECU.
  • Press the Record log button. It will stay pressed, and the timer will start running.
  • When finished, press the Record log button again to save the log and stop the time

Log viewing

How to view a log

  • Click Open log file button and select the desired log file.
  • Click View log chart to open a window displaying the log chart.
  • In the log chart, select the parameters you wish to view.
  • Click on the chart to set active point in the commander tables.
  • Use the mouse wheel to zoom in and out.
  • Click the left mouse button to set the current position in the log.
  • Drag with the right mouse button to pan across the chart.
  • Press the Up/Down arrow keys to zoom.
  • Press the Left/Right arrow keys to pan.
  • Hold Ctrl and press the Left/Right arrow keys to move the marker step by step.

Firmware update

Danger

If a failure occurs, you will not be able to start the engine. Do not attempt this if you don't have a K-Line cable nearby.

Update procedure

  • Turn on the ignition and connect to the ECU.
  • IMPORTANT: Read the calibrations from the ECU and save them to a file.
  • Open the Parameters - Firmware tab.
  • Click Update firmware and choose the firmware file.
  • Wait for the upload to complete.
  • Reconnect to the ECU.
  • Open the calibrations you saved earlier and upload them to the ECU.
  • Wait 10 seconds after completion, then turn off the ignition.

If update fails

You will no longer be able to connect to the ECU, as it will display an indefinite Searching status. This is expected due to the absence of valid firmware.

Rest assured, the ECU is designed to withstand firmware updates without being damaged. As long as there is power, a connection, and the CPU is operational, you can re-upload the firmware.

  • Disable any battery-saving modes on your laptop.
  • Close all other applications, including messaging apps.
  • Connect to the ECU; it will show a Searching status.
  • Disregard this status, select Update firmware, and proceed as usual.

If nothing helps

As a final measure, ensure you have a K-Line cable equipped with an FTDI chip, as other chips may be unreliable.

Instructions:

  • Turn the ignition OFF.
  • Select the appropriate COM port, but don't press "Connect" button
  • Click Update Firmware and choose the firmware file.
  • Wait for the Searching message, then turn the ignition ON immediately
  • The upload process should start.

If the upload does not start, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

  • Verify the 12V power supply to the ECU.
  • Ensure the KLine cable lamp is illuminated when the cable is connected to the ECU but not to the USB.
  • Confirm the correct COM port is selected.
  • Try using a different laptop.
  • Try using a different K-Line cable.