Brief explanation of Mercedes Software WIS DAS EPC STAR
 

Hello guys second post one here and first mercedes / first time working on this platform.

So I see there are several acronyms thrown around regarding software used?

Can someone briefly point me in the right direction of Mercedes WIS-DAS-EPC-XENTRY mean? Are these all different programs?

And a STAR diag computer uses a CD3 or CD4 multiplexer to communicate with the car? Dose is use the DAS software with the CD4 to do this? is that essentially a STAR?

Just diving into the mercedes world and would like to learn what I can as each platform has its own quirks and tools

WIS.net: Workshop Information System.
DAS: Diagnosis Assistance System.
EPC.net: Electronic Parts Catalog: enter part numbers, get prices and information.
Xentry: also called Xentry Diagnostics (XD) is new software released by Benz Company
after 04/2009 for diagnosis of new MB vehicles. Xentry gives direct access to four
applications; DAS (for newer models), TIPS, WIS/ASRA, EPC. The identity of vehicle is
automatically transferred between applications.

This document might shed some additional light on your questions:
http://www.w124performance.com/docs/...rsion%2001.pdf

WIS and EPC is available on MB specific sites.

WIS is available at $60 for 24 hour access or you can get the knock off DVD that includes EPC on eBay for about $10.

https://www.startekinfo.com/StarTek/subscribe2.jsp

Epc-net costs $75 for one year access. It used to be free, but not anymore. Basically punch in your VIN and look up any part you need. Also handy if you're looking for a car and want to see all the options it has.

https://epc.startekinfo.com/epc/subscribe2.jsp

Question: I have a STAR C3 with a Dell running 2014.12 Version software w/Developer mode. Works great with my 2003 E500. However, trying to connect to my 2014 E550 and error code pops up and won't let me in. When I select the W212 it says Prototype, so I'm thinking it's a software issue (considering the version is a 2014). Or does the C3 not work on the W212?

I'm guessing your car isn't supported and you need an updated version of the software. I use a C3 on my prefacelift w212....

You need the C4 version of the multiplexer to connect to 2009+ cars. It uses a LAN cable to the PC, not the COM port cable. You might be able to just purchase this C4 part and adapt it to your PC.
In my case, I sold my C3 SDS complete, then purchased a C4 complete, so I didn't have to deal with the potential incompatible electronics.