I always found the IBM laptops to be a little bulky for the purposes of diagnosing the cars, unless they are stationary on a cart.

If you are out in the field or at meets / track days you would want something portable and preferably with a touch-screen interface.

The SDS laptop acts as a wireless access point with the built int WiFi card and the iPad connects to the laptop. The multiplexer is attached to the laptop as one convenient system. You plug the laptop into the car and close the lid, everything else is done through the iPad, and you have decent range as far as wireless communication goes.

Video of the system in action on YouTube: http://youtu.be/fuFyRRC4ACo

Also, since the laptop and the iPad are running LMI software, if you have a 3G internet connection you can have someone remotely login to the SDS laptop, say from the shop, and diagnose the vehicle with you.

Lowering the car:

 

That is awesome!! I didn't want to buy one due to the laptop interface, but on the iPad that looks amazing! Where can I buy all the other parts needed? Already have an iPad

 

I apologize if I was not clear, this setup requires the laptop. The iPad is acting as a wireless touch-screen interface to the laptop, which can be left inside the car with no cables hanging out the windows/doors. If you are diagnosing for an extended period of time or are on the road, you can use a power inverter.

 

it'd be so cool to work without laptop...

 

Awesome work. Does LMI make an Android client? Might try with my Xoom

 

Noted due to the windows taskbar on the bottom.

 

I checked and this is the info I found: http://community.logmeinrescue.com/t...let/td-p/57634

Looks like it's not yet available for the Xoom but there is an Android version (I would assume for the smartphones?)

 

Here is the whole rig... just plug into the OBD port and the battery should last about 2 hours if properly charged...

 

Chris that looks hardcore man!

if only you lived in Canada... I would come bother you and play with your star diagnostics every other day haha

 

I take back what I said... looks like LogMeIn Ignition is good to go for the Android Honeycomb... http://b.logme.in/

 

That would be awesome! My IBM30 laptop still has Moses signature on it.

Gosh that clunker is old!

 

Yeah the T30 is old junk... I recommend upgrading to the T41 or if budget permits the T400 is even better.

 

Hey, what are you using for the Serial connection on that Thinkpad. I have a T42, but doesn't have native serial port.

 

This is awesome dude. Proper!

 

+1

 

Absolutely awesome!

 

I have a Samsung Galaxy TAB here that I am going to try out.

I should have a video of a live demo with the system connected to a vehicle later.

 

Cool. I have a tab as well. That is a good handheld form factor for something like this. Staying tuned...

 

super nice, great job man, now i want an ipad LOL

 

So quick question which logmein software should I get to work best for this. There is numerous software but can't quiet figure which would be best.

 

Oxygen, on point as usual.

 

sorry to bring this up but the logmein.com is all i need to remote access? I usually do everything in my house so I will be using wi-fi....

 

The T30 might be old, but with 2gb, a 2.4ghz processor, higher res screen, and 2 built in batteries, it handles garage duty just fine. Just keep in mind that these are old laptops and finding a good condition unit from an honest seller is challenging. Some say a newer Dell 630 is also compatible.

 

I just bought a lithium ion battery which apparently says can hold 2-3 hours. I bought 2 batteries and all hold under 30min!

I didn't know it comes with 2 built in batteries though?

 

It is the standard battery and drive bay battery which I would never use on this lappy anyhow. Over 5 hrs on battery.