On-board computers for cars half a century ago could be considered fiction. Then, such a technique was just beginning to be mastered by the aviation and space industries. Today, circumstances have changed beyond recognition, and most modern cars are already equipped with such a simple, but at the same time necessary device from the factory. But what to do to owners of domestic cars which were delivered without this necessary device? The Multitronics UX-7 comes to the rescue, having gained popularity due to its low price, ease of installation and compact size. Let's take a look at the strengths and weaknesses of this device.
What is an on-board computer for the user?
It is worth noting that this particular model received a very minimalist design, so it does not take up much space on the panel and can be placed almost anywhere. Such simplicity was achieved by choosing a three-character seven-segment display for display. It is enough to display all the information necessary for the driver. Moreover, it is very compact.
The main unit Multitronics UX-7, which collects information and decrypts error codes, is hidden under the hood and is generally not visible to the user. Therefore, outwardly not everyone will be able to understand what exactly this machine has undergone refinement.
Easy installation
This model was able to conquer many novice motorists. The reason was the extreme ease of installation. The fact is that in this on-board computer there are no connectors for connecting additional sensors. All information is obtained directly from the diagnostic bus of the car, connecting to which even a beginner will not be difficult. After connecting, the central unit must be fixed securely, and the display should be installed in a free place for the switch.
You should not have any problems with setting up the Multitronics UX-7. The user manual contains all the nuances regarding setup and calibration. If your choice requires cost savings, then with this model you will get it doubly - the first time on the purchase of the flight computer itself, due to its low cost, and the second - during installation, since you can make it yourself without outside assistance.
How the driver is notified of a malfunction
Despite some amenities, the small display also has certain limitations. For example, the output of error codes will be presented in the form of three-digit numbers. In order to determine which device or node is signaling an error, you will have to look at the table. This manipulation, of course, will have to be done only if you do not yet know the given table by heart. Over time, the most common Multitronics UX-7 errors are remembered, and the need for a table disappears.
In addition to the visual display of information, there is a sound signal that allows you to notice deviations in the operation of the car in time. In standby mode, the display may show other information necessary during the movement. This may be the current battery charge, the remaining fuel in the gas tank and even speed control. Let's analyze this feature in more detail.
Speed Notifications
Since the on-board computer Multitronics UX-7 can receive information on the current speed directly from the computer, the manufacturer decided to use this feature for the benefit of the driver. The bottom line is to configure a specific speed indicator, at the intersection of which a short sound signal will be emitted. How can this look in practice?
Suppose you set a beep to cross a mark of 60 kilometers per hour. In this case, if you drive around the city and hear the sound of a buzzer, you will know that you started to exceed speed without even looking at the panel. A second signal will inform you of a decrease in speed to the required level.
On the road, on the contrary, you can hear when the speed becomes too low and can interfere with other participants who are traveling along the same lane with you. Proper use of this feature will significantly reduce the likelihood of a penalty for excess and will allow less distraction on the speedometer while driving.
Firmware update
The manufacturer has provided the ability to update the device software. Along with updates, new features may appear that will expand the capabilities of the Multitronics UX-7 on-board computer. To perform the update, stock up on a special standard cable that allows you to connect your device to your computer via USB. Following a simple instruction, you can perform all the necessary operations.
Manufacturer Specifications
As for any other equipment, the manufacturer provides a list of basic specifications, based on which you should connect and configure the device.
Among them, the most significant are the following:
- Power for the device is acceptable in the voltage range from 9 to 16 volts.
- The consumption of the gadget during operation will be no more than 0.15 amperes.
- In standby mode, the device consumes about 0.018 amperes.
- It is quite comfortable on-board computer operates at temperatures from -20 to +45 degrees. However, reviews show that this range may be higher.
- The device can be transported at a temperature not lower than -40 degrees and not higher than +60.
- The choice is available in orange or green seven-segment indicator, which displays information on-board computer Multitronics UX-7. Instructions on how to configure the output of a specific parameter are in the attached documentation.
Having become acquainted with the main characteristics, one can already draw a definite conclusion. But what do the reviews say about this on-board computer?
Positive points noticed by users
The main advantage of this on-board computer, many call a low cost. Already for this it would be possible to forgive him a few small problems, but there are not so many of them. Cons will be considered in more detail later. So, for a relatively small price, the user receives a device that allows you to measure, depending on the brand of car, up to 66 different indicators. This suits most regulars of automobile forums, and they notice that such an indicator is quite acceptable and allows you to make the necessary diagnostics of the vehicle on the way, as well as monitor its condition.
The second important positive point is the ability to reset a particular error. After signaling a malfunction, you can reset the data on it to the computer and block further signals. This is necessary in order to, given the malfunction, to get under its own power to the nearest service center. If you do not turn off the notification of a malfunction, the car ECU may block the possibility of further movement, and this can lead to unforeseen consequences. But if you are confident in your abilities, then you can quite bypass such a lock using an on-board computer. About similar situations, users of Multitronics UX-7 write reviews on the forums, telling how this function helped save on a tow truck.
The third plus has already been discussed is ease of installation. No trips to services and spending extra money - all work is done independently. In the case of the Multitronics UX-7, the installation becomes more fun than real work.
Well, the fourth positive point is the fact that, according to user reviews, even on frosty winter days, when the temperature drops below -20 degrees, the device continues to function normally. How much this harms him is unknown, but so far there have been no cases of failure due to too low operating temperatures. This once again confirms the reliability of the model.
Cons of this on-board computer
Perhaps ambiguous reviews are caused by the display through which the indication of events is made. If some users are satisfied with its minimalistic design, then others are faced with a problem when a certain code displayed on the display has to be searched literally behind the wheel by the table.
Another disadvantage is poor compatibility with cars that are not on the list recommended by the manufacturer. And the list is quite short, and it includes only a few brands of domestic production. Of course, if the data transfer protocol matches, the Multitronics UX-7 computer will work on any car, but its functionality can be significantly reduced.
findings
This model of an on-board computer for a car is most suitable for owners of domestic cars of the latest generations. It is intended for fans of saving, as it has a low cost and is easy to install.
The user needs a good memory for numbers in order to remember what this or that error code means. If the device is correctly configured, it will in real time show the necessary parameters and even give audio prompts. The Multitronics UX-7 will be an excellent solution for novice motorists, but do not define it as the ultimate goal. Do not forget that when an opportunity arises, you can always change it to a more informative on-board computer, for example, using an Android device as a display.