Bendix ACom Diagnostics now supports SmarTire TPMS

Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems released the latest version of its Bendix ACom diagnostics software helps technicians diagnose and repair components that form anti-lock braking, stability and tire pressure monitoring systems.

The new version builds upon successful past versions of the software. Features of Bendix ACom 6.5 include support for SmarTire Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) by Bendix CVS. Faster and more efficient than its predecessors, the updated software also supports Microsoft Windows 7 32-bit and 64-bit operating systems.

Developed in 2004, the Bendix ACom diagnostics software is a Microsoft Windows-based program that interfaces with the vehicle and reduces steps in the troubleshooting process by directing the technician straight to the diagnostic trouble code for an efficient repair. It covers newly released and most earlier generations of both tractor and trailer electronic control units (ECU) from Bendix.

"Just as we are committed to evolving the Bendix portfolio of electronics solutions, we are continually updating the Bendix ACom diagnostics software, because we believe it's just as important to support our customers after the sale throughout the life of the product," said TJ Thomas, Bendix director of marketing and customer solutions, Controls group. "Our mission is to ensure that technicians always have the latest diagnostic tool at their fingertips – readily available software to troubleshoot and correct any issues quickly and effectively. Like the technicians and their fleets, we want all trucks on the road to be running with the safest braking, active safety, and TPMS systems possible."

To further prove its popularity, statistics show that the Bendix ACom diagnostics software has been downloaded approximately once an hour around the clock every day for the past 14 months.

Bendix also supports its commercial vehicle safety solutions through robust "train the trainer" driver and technician training programs, ASE-certified service teams, and the Bendix Tech Team – the venerable field technical phone support group representing over 85 years of comprehensive, field-tested commercial vehicle troubleshooting experience.

Reinforcing its belief that 24/7/365 post-sale support is a critical aspect of addressing ongoing fleet needs, Bendix continues to expand its existing portfolio of targeted video-based training with a new, growing menu of technical training segments on important, specific maintenance topics. The videos are currently available as downloads on the Bendix website, www.bendix.com; through the Bendix Braking & Safety Technology channel on YouTube.com; via DVDs that can be ordered from the Bendix online literature library; and more.

In addition, Bendix is poised to launch a new training portal for technicians and others who service commercial vehicles in the coming weeks. The new site will feature an evolving menu of 5 to 7 minute video segments, as well as a broad range of other training tools on all aspects of electronics and air brake maintenance.

Bendix continues to look toward the future as well. Its next-generation driver assistance system with innovative new features is in full development. According to Thomas, current systems perform very well, but customers can expect improvements in vehicle identification and fixed-object accuracy from the new system that will automatically apply brakes based on radar-vision fusion input. In addition, it will showcase new features never before possible for commercial vehicles by using the System-on-Chip EyeQ2 with advanced vision algorithms from Mobileye.

"This new system will once again raise the bar for functionality, ROI, and driver acceptance for fleets," Thomas said. "Current driver-assist systems like Bendix Wingman Advanced – A Collision Mitigation Technology, and Bendix ESP Electronic Stability Program full-stability technology offer very good ROI for fleet customers, and the next-generation system will enhance that trend even more. Our customers will be very excited about what we will release in the near future."