TOPDON ArtiLink500 Code Reader User Manual

Welcome

Thank you for purchasing the TOPDON OBD2 scan tool ArtiLink500. Please read and understand this User Manual before operating this product.

About

The TOPDON ArtiLink500 is specially designed for DIY users and small service workshops. It works with OBDII (CAN) compliant vehicles, offering a complete set of 10 modes of OBDII diagnostics. Features include built-in help menus, code definitions, LEDs for different DTC types, and print capability. Diagnosing and repairing is now easier than ever!

Package List

• 1. TOPDON ArtiLink500
• 2. Quick Start Guide
• 3. User Manual
• 4. USB Cable

Compatibility

TOPDON ArtiLink500 is compatible with the following protocols:

• KWP2000
• ISO9141
• J1850 VPW
• J1850 PWM
• CAN (Controller Area Network)

Notice

The ArtiLink500 may automatically reset when disturbed by strong static electricity. This is a normal reaction. ♻️

General Information of OBDII (On-Board Diagnostics II)

The OBDII system is designed to monitor emission control systems and key engine components by performing continuous or periodic tests. It provides three pieces of valuable information:

1. Whether the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is commanded "on" or "off".
2. Which Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), if any, are stored.
3. Readiness Monitor status.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

A DTC example is shown below:

DTC Example: P0202

Manufacturer Specific: P1, P30-p33, B1, B2, C1, C2, U1, U2

SUB-SYSTEMS:

• 1=Fuel and Air Metering
• 2=Fuel and Air Metering
• 3=Ignition System or Engine Misfire
• 4=Auxiliary Emission Controls
• 5=Vehicle Speed Control and Idle Controls
• 6=Computer Output Circuits
• 7=Transmission Controls
• 8=Transmission Controls

Features

The TOPDON ArtiLink500 features the following components:

Operation Introduction

1. Preparation & Connection

1. Turn the ignition off.
2. Locate the vehicle's DLC socket. ? [Diagram: A vehicle's Data Link Connector (DLC) socket with labeled ports A, B, C, D.]
3. Plug the diagnostic cable into the vehicle's DLC socket. ?
4. Turn the ignition on. The engine can be off or running.
5. The ArtiLink500 will start initializing and enter the main menu interface.

Main Menu Interface:

[Icons representing menu options: Diagnose (wrench icon), I/M (gauge icon), Review (magnifying glass icon), Lookup (magnifying glass with text icon), Print (printer icon), Help (question mark icon), Setup (gear icon), Info (information icon).]

2. Diagnose

After the tool is properly connected to the vehicle's DLC port, select [Diagnose] in the Main Menu and press [OK]. The tool will automatically start a check of the vehicle's computer.

2.1 Read Codes

This option identifies which section of the emission control system has malfunctioned. Select [Read Codes] and press [OK].

[Diagnostic Menu options: Read Codes, Erase Codes, I/M Readiness, Data Stream, Freeze Frame, 02 Sensor Test.]

Press [OK] to select the manufacturer.

[Screen: Select Car Brand - FORD, GM, CHRYSLER, BENZ, BMW, VW/AUDI]

The DTC with its definition will be displayed on screen.

Never replace a part based only on the DTC definition. Always refer to the vehicle's service manual for detailed testing instructions.

2.2 Erase Codes

This option erases the codes from the vehicle after retrieving codes and carrying out certain repairs. Select [Erase Codes] and press [OK].

[Diagnostic Menu options: Read Codes, Erase Codes, I/M Readiness, Data Stream, Freeze Frame.]

Press [OK] to confirm erasing.

[Screen: ERASE CODES - Clear/Reset Emission Related Diagnostic Information. Are you Sure?]

The result will be displayed on screen.

[Screen: ERASE CODES - Emission-Related Diagnostic Information has been Cleared!]

Be sure the vehicle's ignition key is in the ON position with the engine off.

2.3 I/M Readiness

This option checks whether the various emissions-related systems on the vehicle are operating properly and are ready for Inspection and Maintenance testing. It can also be used to confirm that a repair has been performed correctly and/or to check for Monitor Run Status after a fault has been performed. Select [I/M Readiness] and press [OK].

[Diagnostic Menu options: Read Codes, Erase Codes, I/M Readiness, Data Stream, Freeze Frame, 02 Sensor Test.]

The result will be displayed on screen.

Explanation of terms:

• MIL - Malfunction Indicator Light
• IGN - The Ignition Method of the Vehicle
• DTC - Diagnostic Trouble Code
• PdDTC - Pending Diagnostic Trouble Code
• MIS - Misfire Monitor
• FUE - Fuel System Monitor
• CCM - Comprehensive Components Monitor
• CAT - Catalyst Monitor
• HCAT - Heated Catalyst Monitor
• EVAP - Evaporative System Monitor
• AIR - Secondary Air Monitor
• O2S - O2 Sensors Monitor
• HTR - O2 Sensor Heater Monitor
• EGR - Exhaust Gas Recirculation System Monitor

2.4 Data Stream

This option retrieves and displays live data and parameters from the vehicle's ECU. Select [Data Stream] and press [OK].

[Diagnostic Menu options: Read Codes, Erase Codes, I/M Readiness, Data Stream, Freeze Frame, 02 Sensor Test.]

Select an option, and press [OK].

[DATA STREAM screen options: View All Items, Select Items, View Graphic Items.]

The result will be displayed on screen.

2.5 View Freeze Frame

This option takes the snapshot of the operating conditions when an emission-related fault occurs. Select [Freeze Frame] and press [OK].

[Diagnostic Menu options: Read Codes, Erase Codes, I/M Readiness, Data Stream, Freeze Frame, 02 Sensor Test.]

The result will be displayed on screen.

If DTCs were erased, Freeze Data may not be stored in vehicle memory depending on the vehicle.

2.6 02 Sensor Test

This option retrieves O2 sensor monitor test results of the most recently completed tests from your vehicle's on-board computer. Select [02 Sensor Test] and press [OK].

[Diagnostic Menu options: Read Codes, Erase Codes, I/M Readiness, Data Stream, Freeze Frame, 02 Sensor Test.]

Select an option, and press [OK].

[SELECT O2 SENSO screen options: Bank1-Sensor1, Bank1-Sensor2.]

The result will be displayed on screen.

2.7 On-Board Monitor Test

This option retrieves test results for emission-related powertrain components and systems that are not continuously monitored. The tests available are determined by the vehicle manufacturer. Select [On-Board Monitoring] and press [OK].

[Diagnostic Menu options: Data Stream, Freeze Frame, 02 Sensor Test, ON-Board Monitoring, Evap System, Vehicle Information.]

Select an option, and press [OK].

[ON-BOARD MONITOR screen options: Test $01 Data, Test $03 Data, Test $04 Data, Test $10 Data.]

The result will be displayed on screen.

2.8 EVAP System Test

This option initiates a leak test for the vehicle's EVAP system. Select [EVAP System (mode$8)] and press [OK].

[Diagnostic Menu options: Data Stream, Freeze Frame, 02 Sensor Test, ON-Board Monitoring, Evap System, Vehicle Information.]

If the vehicle supports mode$8, the following result will be displayed on screen.

EVAP SYSTEM(MODE$8)

Evaporative system leak passed

Before using the system test function, refer to the vehicle's service repair manual to determine the necessary procedure.

2.9 Vehicle Information

This option retrieves a list of information (provided by the vehicle manufacturer) from the vehicle's on-board computer. This information may include:

• VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).
• CID (Calibration ID).
• CVN (Calibration Verification Number).

Select [Vehicle Information] and press [OK].

[Diagnostic Menu options: Data Stream, Freeze Frame, 02 Sensor Test, ON-Board Monitoring, Evap System, Vehicle Information.]

The result will be displayed on screen.

3. I/M

A quick access to the I/M Readiness of the Diagnostics. Refer to Chapter 2.3 for details.

4. Review

This option is designed to review or delete the recorded DTC, Data Streams and Freeze Frame, as following:

[OBDII REVIEW DATA menu options: Review DTC, Review Datastream, Review Freeze Frame, Delete DTC Data, Delete Datastream, Delete Freeze Frame.]

5. DTC Lookup

This function enables you to view the detailed definition of the retrieved DTC. Select [Lookup] in the Main Menu and press [OK]. The following screen will appear:

LOOKUP

Please input DTC:

P 0 0 0 0

The 1st range: P, C, B, U
The 2nd range: 0, 1, 2, 3
The others from 0 to F

Press [▲]or[▼] to change input, press [◀] or [▶] to select position, then press [OK] to confirm.

After you input the DTC, press [OK] to view its detailed definition.

You can press [HELP] ❓ to view the diagnostic tips/solution related with the DTC.

DTC: P0201

The role of the injector is to atomize fuel so as to adapt to the requirement of combustion. The working principle is: when the solenoid is energized, suction force will be generated, and needle valve will be sucked, then open the injector hole, and fuel will be injected at a high speed from the annular gap between axial needle at the top of the needle valve.

6. Print

This function is used to print the records saved in Read Codes or DataStream. Connect the scanner to the computer via USB cable. The following screen will appear:

[Screen showing device connection status and boot information: Boot Version: V 1.00.000, Serial Number: 972890000029, Register Code: 36FFDB054753. Instructions: 1. USB Connected for Upgrade. 2. Press [EXIT] key to Enter Normal Mode.]

Press [EXIT], and enter the main menu. Run the Update Tool in your computer. The system will automatically detect the Serial Number of the scanner. Select [Print Manager].

[TOPDON Update Tool (V1.03.003) window: Select Language (English), Product Serial Number (972890000029), Print Manager button, Device Upgrade button.]

Select [Print] on the OBDII scanner. Select the data you want to print and press [OK].

[Screen: Upload Record - 0001, Nor Supported. OK ✅ I/M]

The selected file will be uploaded to your computer, and displayed on the print manager.

[ScanPrint interface showing device status, connection status, and data report with example DTCs like B06ED, P39C3, P1BBF, POF51.]

7. Help

This function enables you to view the tool information and the OBD introduction. Select [Help] in the Main menu and then press [OK]. The following screen will appear:

[HELP menu options: ABOUT OBD, ABOUT DATASTREAM, PRINT HELP, I/M READINESS.]

Explanation of terms:

• About OBD - Relevant introduction information about OBD.
• About DataStream - Relevant introduction information about Data Stream.
• Print Help - Provides operation tips on Printing the diagnostic record or DTCs.
• I/M Readiness - Introduces the full name and detailed definition of each I/M monitor.

8. Settings

Select [Setup] in the Main menu and press [OK]. The following screen will appear:

[Setup screen options: Language, Unit of Measure, Beeper.]

Explanation of terms:

• Language - to set the user interface language.
• Unit of Measure - to set measurement unit.
• Beeper - to set the buzzer On/Off.

9. Update

A computer that can access the Internet is required.

• Go to http://www.topdondiagnostics.com, click "SUPPORT" of the page, and select "Rom Update".
• Download, decompress and install the Update Tool software package in your computer (compatible with Windows XP/7/8&10).
• After the installation, connect ArtiLink500 to the computer via the USB cable. If a newer version is found, the following screen will appear:

[Screen showing device connection status and boot information: Boot Version: V 1.00.000, Serial Number: 972890000029, Register Code: 36FFDB054753. Instructions: 1. USB Connected for Upgrade. 2. Press [EXIT] key to Enter Normal Mode.]

Run the Update Tool in your computer, the system will automatically detect the Serial Number of the scanner. Select Language, and click [Device Upgrade].

[TOPDON Update Tool (V1.03.003) window: Select Language (English), Product Serial Number (972893000004), Print Manager button, Device Upgrade button.]

The following screen will appear:

[Register your product screen: Fields for Your E-mail address, Confirm E-mail, Register Code (pre-filled: 6411384A3230). Buttons: Cancel, Submit, Exit.]

• Input the information required. Click [Submit].
• Choose the software version and start updating.

Technical Specification

Warranty

TOPDON One Year Limited Warranty

The TOPDON Company warrants to its original purchaser that TOPDON products will be free from defects in material and workmanship for 12 months from the date of purchase (Warranty Period). For the defects reported during the Warranty Period, TOPDON will, according to the technical support analysis and confirmation, either repair or replace the defective part or product.

This limited warranty is void under the following conditions:

• Misused, disassembled, altered or repaired by a non-TOPDON technical repair specialist.
• Careless handling and violation of operation.

⚠️ Warnings

• Always perform automotive testing in a safe environment.
• DO NOT smoke near the vehicle during testing.
• DO NOT place the code reader near the engine or exhaust pipe to avoid damage from high temperatures.
• DO NOT wear loose clothing or jewelry when working on an engine.
• DO NOT connect or disconnect any test equipment while the ignition is on or the engine is running.
• When an engine is running, it produces carbon monoxide, a toxic and poisonous gas. Operate the vehicle ONLY in a well-ventilated area.
• Wear safety eye protection that meets ANSI standards.
• Engine parts become very hot when the engine is running. To prevent severe burns, avoid contact with hot engine parts.
• DO NOT disassemble the code reader.

? Cautions

• Please ensure that the vehicle battery is fully charged and the tools are closely connected to the vehicle DLC to avoid erroneous data generated by tools and diagnostic systems.
• Keep clothing, hair, hands, tools, test equipment, etc. away from all moving or hot engine parts.
• Please do not use the code reader during driving.
• Keep the scan tool dry, clean, free from oil/water or grease. Use a mild detergent on a clean cloth to clean the outside of the scan tool, when Necessary.
• Keep the code reader out of the reach of children.

FAQ

Q: System halts when reading data stream. What is the reason?

A: It may be caused by a slackened connector. Please turn off the tool, firmly connect the connector, and switch it on again.

Q: Screen of main unit flashes at engine ignition start.

A: Caused by electromagnetic disturbing, and this is normal phenomenon.

Q: There is no response when communicating with on-board computer.

A: Please confirm the proper voltage of power supply and check if the throttle has been closed, the transmission is in the neutral position, and the water is in proper temperature.

Q: Why are there so many fault codes?

A: Usually, it's caused by poor connection or fault circuit grounding.

Q: Why the DTCs cannot be erased?

A: 1. Please confirm the malfunction related to DTCs has been properly fixed.
2. Please switch the ignition OFF. Wait for 1~3 minutes, then start the vehicle. After that, try to run "Read Codes" again. (Some DTCs can only be erased in this way.)

FCC Statement:

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

For Services and Support

Phone: 86-755-21612590 (International), 1-833-629-4832 (North America)

Email: support@topdon.com

Website: www.topdon.com

Social Media: ? @TopdonOfficial, © @TopdonOfficial

Certifications: CE, FC, RoHS, UK CA ♻️