TOPDON Phoenix / Phoenix Lite Quick Start Guide
Your essential guide to setting up and using the TOPDON Phoenix and Phoenix Lite automotive diagnostic tools.
System Components
The TOPDON Phoenix / Phoenix Lite system consists of two main components:
- Phoenix / Phoenix Lite Display Tablet: The central unit for operating the diagnostic software.
- VCI (Vehicle Communication Interface): The device that communicates with the vehicle's systems.
Phoenix / Phoenix Lite Display Tablet Features
The tablet features:
- 7-inch Touchscreen: For intuitive navigation and display of diagnostic results.
- Rear Camera: Captures views behind the screen.
- Slot for VCI: A dedicated space for housing the VCI device.
- Carry Strap: For easy portability and handling.
- Speakers: For audio output.
- Microphone: For voice input.
- Charging/Data I/O Port: For accessing vehicle data and charging.
VCI (Vehicle Communication Interface)
The VCI acts as the bridge between the vehicle and the tablet. It reads vehicle data and transmits it to the tablet via Bluetooth communication.
VCI Features:
- OBD II 16pin Connector: Connects directly to the vehicle's DLC port or via an extension cable.
- Mode Indicator:
- RED: Indicates the VCI is plugged into the vehicle's DLC port.
- BLUE: Indicates the VCI is connected to the Phoenix / Phoenix Lite tablet via Bluetooth.
Possible DLC Location: Refer to the vehicle's manual for the exact location of the Data Link Connector (DLC).
1. Register & Update
Follow these steps to set up your device:
Network Setting
To connect to the internet:
- Tap ⚙️ [Settings] on the tablet.
- Select ? [Wi-Fi].
- Choose your desired Wi-Fi network and connect until it shows "connected".
Account Registration & Activation
Register your device to access full functionality:
- Launch the Phoenix / Phoenix Lite application.
- Tap "New Registration" or "Create an Account".
- Enter your Username, Password, Confirm Password, Email, and select your Country.
- Complete the CAPTCHA verification.
- Tap "Register".
- On the Activation screen, enter your Product Serial Number and Activation Code. (The activation code is typically found in a password envelope included with the product).
- Tap "Activate".
- Upon successful registration, you will be prompted to download vehicle software. Tap "Yes" to proceed to the update center or "No" to skip and update later.
Note: The Chinese text "产品序列号: Product BN:" appears alongside the serial number field, indicating product batch information.
2. Preparation & Vehicle Connection
Ensure the vehicle is properly prepared before connecting the VCI.
2.1 Preparation
- The vehicle's ignition is turned on.
- The vehicle battery voltage is between 9-18 volts.
- The vehicle's throttle is in the closed position.
2.2 Working Principle & Power Supply
The VCI requires power. It can be powered via the vehicle's battery or cigarette lighter using optional cables:
- Via Battery Clamps Cable (Optional): Connect one end of the cable to the vehicle's battery terminals and the other end to the VCI's power jack (often via an OBD I adaptor).
- Via Cigarette Lighter Cable (Optional): Connect one end of the cable to the vehicle's cigarette lighter receptacle and the other end to the VCI's power jack (often via an OBD I adaptor).
Note: Non-OBDII adapters are not included in the Phoenix Lite package.
2.3 Vehicle Connection
Connect the VCI to the vehicle's diagnostic port:
- OBD II Vehicle Connection:
- Plug the VCI directly into the vehicle's OBD II 16-pin DLC port.
- Alternatively, use an OBD II extension cable to connect the VCI to the DLC port.
- Non-OBD II Vehicle Connection:
- Locate the vehicle's DLC port.
- Connect one end of the OBD I adaptor to the VCI.
- Connect the other end of the OBD I adaptor to the appropriate non-16 pin connector for the vehicle.
- Plug the non-16 pin connector into the vehicle's DLC port.
- Supply power to the OBD I adaptor using one of the methods described in "2.2 Working Principle & Power Supply".
3. Start Diagnostics
The Phoenix / Phoenix Lite offers three diagnostic methods:
- Intelligent Diagnostics ?: Provides automatic guidance to help diagnose and fix issues without manual menu selection.
- Local Diagnostics ?️: Allows manual selection of menus and commands for diagnosis. This is recommended for new users.
- Remote Diagnostics ?: Enables remote vehicle diagnosis by repair shops or mechanics, facilitating instant messaging for improved efficiency.
Steps for Local Diagnostics (Recommended for New Users):
- Tap "Local Diagnostics".
- Select the vehicle model.
- Select the appropriate software version.
- Select the test system.
- Select the desired test function.