Introduction
The Vgate vLinker FD+ is a professional OBD2 car diagnostic tool designed for use with Ford vehicles, supporting programming and diagnostics. It is compatible with FORScan software and offers multiple connectivity options including Bluetooth 3.0, Bluetooth 4.0, and Wi-Fi. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your vLinker FD+ device.
Figure 1: Vgate vLinker FD+ device highlighting key features.
Package Contents
- 1 x Vgate vLinker FD+ (BT3.0/BT4.0/WIFI variant)
- 1 x User Manual (this document)
Figure 2: Contents of the Vgate vLinker FD+ package.
Setup Guide
1. Device Installation
- Locate the OBD interface in your car.
- Insert the vLinker FD+ device into the OBD interface.
- Turn the ignition key to the ON Engine OFF position.
2. Connecting to Android System (Bluetooth)
- Open your phone's Bluetooth settings and search for available devices.
- Tap "vLinker FD" to initiate pairing. If "vLinker FD-Android" does not show, tap "scan".
- Enter the pairing code: 1234.
- Once successfully paired, open the FORScan Lite application.
- In the app settings, select "Bluetooth" as the connection type.
- Choose "vLinker FD" from the list of Bluetooth devices.
- Tap the CONNECT button on the Status page.
- Verify connection: All LED indicators on the device should light up while sending data from the vehicle.
Figure 3: Step-by-step guide for connecting vLinker FD+ to an Android device via Bluetooth.
3. Connecting to iOS System (Bluetooth)
- Ensure the vLinker FD+ is inserted into the OBD interface and the ignition is ON.
- Enable Bluetooth on your iOS phone. Do NOT connect to Bluetooth in phone settings.
- Open the FORScan Lite application.
- Tap the CONNECT button on the Status page within the app.
- Verify connection: All LED indicators on the device should light up while sending data from the vehicle.
Figure 4: Step-by-step guide for connecting vLinker FD+ to an iOS device via Bluetooth.
4. Video Guide: Unboxing and Android Bluetooth Connection
Video 1: Unboxing the Vgate vLinker FD+ and demonstrating Bluetooth connection with an Android phone.
Operating the Device
The Vgate vLinker FD+ offers a wide range of diagnostic and programming functions, especially when used with compatible software like FORScan for Ford vehicles.
Key Functions:
- Read/Clear DTC: Read Diagnostic Trouble Codes and clear them from your vehicle's ECU.
- Engine RPM: Monitor real-time engine revolutions per minute.
- Adjust Parameters: Modify certain vehicle parameters (requires compatible software and vehicle support).
- Refresh Parameters: Update and view current vehicle parameters.
- Hidden Function Activation: Activate hidden features in your vehicle (requires compatible software and vehicle support).
- Read Data Stream: Access live data streams from various sensors and modules.
Figure 5: Overview of 13+ detection functions supported by vLinker FD+.
13+ Detection Functions include:
- Automatically lock doors
- Speeding reminder
- Emergency brake flashing lights
- Lock the car and whistle (confirmation sound)
- Xenon lamp mode
- One-click skylight operation
- Tire pressure monitoring
- Snowflake logo display
- Cruise control function
- Compass display
- Average (instantaneous) fuel consumption
- ECO energy saving mode
- Steering power adjustment
Maintenance
The Vgate vLinker FD+ is designed for durability and requires minimal maintenance. Keep the device clean and free from dust and moisture. Store it in a cool, dry place when not in use.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
- Software Updates: The device firmware can be updated for improved compatibility and features. Refer to the Vgate official website or the specific application (e.g., FORScan) for update procedures.
Troubleshooting
- Device not connecting:
- Ensure the device is properly inserted into the vehicle's OBD port.
- Verify the vehicle ignition is in the ON Engine OFF position.
- For Android, ensure Bluetooth is enabled and paired. For iOS, ensure Bluetooth is enabled but connect directly through the app, not phone settings.
- Check if the app is compatible with your device's Bluetooth/Wi-Fi version.
- "How hidden function active???" (from Q&A): Activating hidden functions typically requires specific software (like FORScan for Ford) and may involve advanced settings within the application. Refer to the software's documentation for detailed instructions on enabling such features.
- "Can the configuration be changed?" (from Q&A): Yes, the device supports adjusting parameters and activating hidden functions, but this depends on the capabilities of the diagnostic software used and the specific vehicle's ECU.
- Software compatibility: Our products support FORScan. We only sell adapters compatible with these software. Some software functions or the software itself may require additional fees paid to the software company.
Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Vgate |
| Model | vLinker FD+ |
| Hardware Version | Vgate vLinker ELM327 V2.2 |
| Software Version | Vgate vLinker ELM327 V2.2 |
| Item Type | Code Readers & Scan Tools, Vgate vLinker FD+ with BT4.0/3.0/WIFI Scanner |
| Special Features | Adapter Auto Sleep/User-defined operation/All OBD2 protocols |
| Language | English |
| Operating System (BT3.0) | Only for Android |
| Operating System (BT4.0/WIFI) | For Android/iOS |
| Supported Protocols |
|
| Power Management | Device sleep power consumption less than 2 mA. Supports up to 5 ways to go to sleep and wake up. |
| OBD Request Byte | Up to 48 bytes |
| UART Data Buffer | Up to 2K bytes, baudrate increased to 230.4Kbps |
| Storage Unit | 256-byte, >100,000 erasable times |
| Certification | CE |
Figure 6: Comparison table of OBD-II to RS232 interpreters, highlighting vLinker FD+ capabilities.
Figure 7: Visual representation of OBD2 standard and additional protocols supported by vLinker FD+.
Warranty and Support
The Vgate vLinker FD+ comes with a 2-year official store warranty. For technical support or warranty claims, please contact the Vgate Official Store directly. All messages will be answered within 24 hours.
User Tips
- iOS Bluetooth Connection: When using the BT4.0 version with an iOS mobile phone, always connect to Bluetooth directly within the diagnostic software (e.g., FORScan Lite) and avoid connecting via the phone's general Bluetooth settings.
- Software Costs: Be aware that while the vLinker FD+ adapter is compatible with various diagnostic software, some advanced features or the software itself may require separate purchases or subscriptions from the software developer.
- Vehicle Compatibility: The device supports a wide range of OBDII protocols, covering almost 99% of OBDII cars on the market. However, specific functions like programming or activating hidden features are vehicle-dependent and require compatible software.