The CGDI FC200 is a versatile programming tool that
has gained attention for its ability to handle a wide range of
electronic control units (ECUs). In this review, we’ll explore its
functionality using the Siemens SID310 (also known as Continental) ECU
as an example.
Setting the Stage: Preparing the SID310 ECU
The SID310, manufactured by Continental (also known as Siemens), is a common ECU found in vehicles like the Renault Talisman. To begin, the ECU is opened up to enable boot mode—a critical step for accessing its internal programming. This is where the FC200 comes into play, offering a seamless interface for reading and writing data.
Connecting the Device: Once the ECU is prepped, the FC200 is connected according to the provided pinout diagram. The setup is straightforward, and the software interface is intuitive. In this case, we select the Renault Talisman profile in the FC200 program.
Reading the Password: The first task is to extract the ECU’s password. The FC200 quickly reads it, though in this example, the password was already saved from a prior session, so no need to store it again.
Boot Mode Activation: With the password in hand, the ECU is connected in boot mode. The FC200 establishes a secure connection, prompting for the password to unlock further access.
Reading the Flash Memory: Next, the FC200 reads the ECU’s full flash dump. Read Dflash and Pflash data respectively. This step is crucial for creating backups before making changes.
Writing the New Firmware: The FC200 uploads the modified file back to the ECU. The process is smooth, with the device handling communication with its server to ensure accuracy. Once the write is complete, the ECU is ready.
Once the checksum was recalculated (via server support), the updated firmware was written back to the ECU. The process concluded successfully, and the ECU was ready for reinstallation. The device was sealed with gasket maker to ensure proper protection before being reinstalled in the vehicle.
Verdict
The CGDI FC200 is a powerful and reliable tool, offering extensive functionality for its
price. While some features require a license, its performance and compatibility make it a worthwhile investment for professionals working with diverse ECU systems. If you’re considering purchasing it, this tool comes highly recommended.
