OP-COM V1.70 Diagnostic Cable with PIC18F458 – OBD2 Diagnostic Tool for Opel/Vauxhall with CAN-BUS Support

Short version

OP-COM V1.70 is a PC-based OBD2 diagnostic interface for Opel/Vauxhall, developed for those who want to read and clear fault codes, view live data, check measured values, and perform selected function tests on many Opel models. This version is stated to have firmware V1.70, a PIC18F458 chip, and support for many control units in the car, such as engine, automatic transmission, ABS, instrument cluster, climate control, and body module.

The tool is particularly useful for Opel models with both older communication systems and newer CAN-BUS-based diagnostics. The product information mentions, among other things, support for models such as Vectra-C, Astra-H, and Zafira-B, and that the interface functions as a multiplexer and selects the correct communication pin in the OBD connector depending on the system.

With OP-COM, you can read fault codes with more detailed status information, for example, whether the fault is Present, Not present, or Intermittent. The program can also display measuring blocks/live data and up to 8 measured values simultaneously, depending on the control unit and communication protocol. Newer CAN-based systems are normally faster, while older ISO/KWP systems can be slower.

Important: The product specifies Software Version V2014/120309a and Firmware Version V1.7. Always follow the supplier's instructions for your specific version. If your delivery explicitly states “Never Update Online”, you should not use online updates, as an incorrect update can render the interface unusable.

• Product: OP-COM V1.70 diagnostic cable for Opel/Vauxhall
• Chip: PIC18F458
• Firmware: V1.70 / V1.7 according to product text
• Software: V2014/120309a according to product text
• Connection: OBD2 to car + USB to PC
• Functions: fault codes, live data, output tests, measuring blocks, etc.

What is OP-COM V1.70?

OP-COM is a diagnostic interface used with a Windows computer to communicate with control units in Opel/Vauxhall vehicles. Unlike simple generic OBD2 readers, OP-COM is tailored for Opel systems and can therefore access more modules than just engine control, depending on car model, year of manufacture, and software version.

The tool connects to the car via the 16-pin OBD2 connector and to the computer via USB. The software is then used to select the car model, year of manufacture, and control unit. After that, you can read fault codes, view live data, and in many cases perform selected tests.

This version is referred to as the OP-COM 1.70 Firmware OBD2 Diagnostic Tool and is equipped with a PIC18F458 chip. It is marketed for Opel cars and, according to the product text, covers many models, including newer cars with CAN-BUS-based diagnostics.

Advantages of OP-COM for Opel

• Opel-specific diagnostics – more specific than many simple generic OBD2 readers.
• Broad model support – the product text mentions many Opel models, including CAN-BUS cars.
• Multiple control units – engine, automatic transmission, ABS, instruments, climate, body control unit, etc.
• Live data – view measured values and status in real time.
• Fault codes with status – present, not present, and intermittent where the system supports it.
• Output tests – possibility to activate certain components/controls on supported modules.
• PC-based – larger screen and better overview than many handheld readers.

Main functions

OP-COM V1.70 is designed for troubleshooting, service, and diagnosis on Opel/Vauxhall vehicles. According to the product text, the software can:

1. Read fault codes from many control units.
2. Clear fault codes after repair.
3. View live data and measuring blocks.
4. Display up to 8 measured values simultaneously, depending on the system and protocol.
5. Perform output tests on many controls where supported.
6. Display full fault code information with status such as Present, Not present, and Intermittent.
7. Save or print information from the fault code window, depending on the program function.
8. Communicate via multiple OBD pins thanks to the multiplexer function.

Supported control units and systems

The product information mentions support for many control units. Exact support depends on the car model, year of manufacture, equipment level, and software version. Examples of systems mentioned:

• Engine – engine control
• Automatic Transmission – automatic gearbox
• ABS – braking system
• Airbag/SRS – safety system, where support exists
• Engine Cooling Module – cooling fan/cooling system module
• Instrument Cluster – instrument panel
• Electronic Climate Control – climate control
• Body Control Unit – body/comfort module

For older Opel systems, communication may be slower, while newer CAN-based systems normally provide faster data transfer.

Fault codes with status information

When OP-COM reads fault codes, it not only displays the code itself but also available information about the fault status. This can help you determine if the fault is currently active or if it has only been registered previously.

Examples of status

• Present: the fault is currently active.
• Not present: the fault is stored but not active at the time of reading.
• Intermittent: the fault comes and goes, often due to loose contact, sensor failure, or voltage problems.

From the fault code window, you can often proceed to measured values/measuring blocks to check live data that may be related to the fault.

Live data and measuring blocks

Live data is one of the most important functions for proper troubleshooting. Instead of just reading a fault code, you can see what the control unit is actually reporting in real time.

According to the product text, the software can display up to 8 measuring block parameters simultaneously. The sampling rate is affected by the communication protocol the car uses:

• Older ISO-9141-2 systems may be slower.
• KWP-2000 systems, such as certain Multec or Bosch units, are often faster.
• Newer CAN-based control units are normally the fastest.

Examples of useful measured values

• Engine speed
• Coolant temperature
• Intake air temperature
• Throttle position
• Mass airflow meter/MAF value
• Boost pressure or intake pressure where supported
• Battery voltage
• Status of sensors, switches, and relays
• ABS wheel speeds where the module supports this
• Climate and comfort related values where the module supports this

Output tests and activation tests

According to the product information, OP-COM can perform output tests on many controls. This means that the software can, in some cases, activate components or functions for testing, such as relays, valves, lights, or other controlled parts – depending on the car model and control unit.

Output tests are very useful when you want to check if a component responds, but the function should be used carefully. Never activate components if you do not know what the test does.

Safety: When testing ABS, airbag/SRS, cooling fans, pumps, or other systems with movement/power consumption, extra caution is required. Ensure the car is safely set up and always follow correct workshop procedures.

CAN-BUS, KWP2000 and multiplexer function

Opel uses several different communication pathways via the OBD connector. Therefore, the OP-COM interface functions as a multiplexer and selects the correct pin for communication.

Communication pins according to product text

• PIN3, PIN7, PIN8, PIN12: Serial Link (ISO9141, KW81, KW82, KWP2000)
• PIN6 – PIN14: HSCAN, dual-wire High Speed CAN-BUS, 500 kbps
• PIN3 – PIN11: MSCAN, dual-wire Medium Speed CAN-BUS, 95 kbps
• PIN1: SWCAN, single-wire Low Speed CAN-BUS, 33.3 kbps

This is one of the reasons why Opel-specific interfaces often work better than simple generic OBD2 readers when diagnosing more systems than just the engine.

Installation Guide

1) Prepare the computer

1. Use a Windows computer, preferably Windows 7 or Windows 10 for the easiest installation.
2. Log in with administrator privileges.
3. Unpack the OP-COM program to a simple folder, for example, C:\OPCOM.
4. Install necessary system components if included in the delivery.

2) Install .NET Framework if needed

The product information indicates that dotnetfx35_SP1 may be required on Windows XP or Windows 7. If the program does not start or behaves unstably on older Windows, .NET Framework 3.5 SP1 may therefore need to be installed.

3) Install USB driver

1. Open the driver folder included with the product.
2. Run the installation file as administrator if one exists.
3. If Windows does not find the driver automatically: install manually via Device Manager.
4. Connect the OP-COM interface only after the driver is installed, if the supplier's instructions say so.

4) Run the program as administrator

1. Right-click on the OP-COM program file.
2. Select Run as administrator.
3. On Windows 7, this may be particularly important according to the product information.

5) Test interface

1. Connect the OP-COM to the computer via USB.
2. Start the program.
3. Go to settings and select Test Interface or equivalent.
4. Ensure the program finds the adapter before connecting to the car.

6) Connect to the car

1. Turn off the car.
2. Connect the OP-COM to the car's OBD2 socket.
3. Connect the USB to the computer.
4. Turn the ignition to the ON position.
5. Select the correct Opel model and control unit in the program.

Troubleshooting during installation

OP-COM not found in the program

• Check that the USB driver is installed.
• Check the Device Manager in Windows.
• Try another USB port, preferably directly on the computer and not via a USB hub.
• Run OP-COM as administrator.
• Restart the computer after driver installation.

Windows shows Code 28

Code 28 normally means that the driver is not installed. Do as follows:

1. Open Device Manager.
2. Right-click on the device with a yellow warning triangle.
3. Select Update driver.
4. Select Browse my computer for driver software.
5. Point to the driver folder that came with OP-COM.
6. Restart the computer and test the interface again.

The program does not start

• Run as administrator.
• Try compatibility mode for Windows 7 or Windows XP.
• Install .NET Framework 3.5 SP1 if required by the program version.
• Check that antivirus has not blocked a legitimate file from your delivery.

Interface found but car does not respond

• Check that the ignition is ON.
• Check that the OBD2 connector is properly seated in the car.
• Check the car's fuse for the diagnostic socket.
• Select the correct model, year of manufacture, and control unit.
• First, test the engine control, as it is often the easiest to communicate with.

Specifications

Package contents

• 1 × OP-COM V1.70 diagnostic interface/cable for Opel
• 1 × USB connection/cable according to delivery
• Software/driver according to delivery

Note: Exact content may vary depending on delivery. Always follow the instructions that come with your specific product.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1) What is OP-COM V1.70?

It is a PC-based diagnostic interface for Opel/Vauxhall that connects via OBD2 and USB.

2) Which chip does this version have?

The product information specifies PIC18F458.

3) Which firmware does it have?

It is stated as Firmware V1.70 / V1.7 according to the product text.

4) Which software version is specified?

The product text specifies Software Version V2014/120309a.

5) Can it read and clear fault codes?

Yes, OP-COM can read and clear fault codes on supported control units.

6) Can it display live data?

Yes, the program can display measuring blocks/live data, and according to the text, up to 8 parameters simultaneously.

7) Does it support CAN-BUS?

Yes, the product description states support for CAN-BUS-based diagnostics, including HSCAN, MSCAN, and SWCAN.

8) Does it work on Astra H, Vectra C, and Zafira B?

Yes, these models are explicitly mentioned as examples in the product information.

9) Can I update OP-COM online?

If your delivery states “Never Update Online,” you should not update online. Incorrect updates can damage the interface or render it unusable.

10) What does Code 28 mean in Windows?

Code 28 normally means that the driver is not installed. Install the correct USB driver via Device Manager.

11) Do I need .NET Framework?

The product information indicates that dotnetfx35_SP1 may be required on Windows XP and Windows 7.

12) Should the program be run as administrator?

Yes, especially on Windows 7 and newer systems, it is recommended to run the program as administrator.

13) Can OP-COM perform output tests?

Yes, the program can perform output tests on many controllers where the car and control unit support the function.

14) Can it read airbag/SRS?

Airbag/SRS is mentioned in the product text, but support depends on the car model, year, and control unit. Always work carefully with safety systems.

15) Is OP-COM the same as a standard ELM327?

No. OP-COM is an Opel-adapted interface with a multiplexer and support for several Opel-specific communication pathways.

Important Notes & Safety

• Do not update online – online updates can damage the interface.
• Read and save fault codes before deleting them.
• Use a support charger during extended diagnostic sessions, coding, or tests.
• Output tests should be used with caution as they can activate components in the car.
• SRS/airbag systems should only be handled with proper knowledge and safety procedures.
• Do not change coding unless you know exactly what the function does.
• Do not actively use diagnostic software while driving.

Summary

OP-COM V1.70 with PIC18F458 is a powerful and Opel-adapted diagnostic interface for those who want to do more than just simple engine troubleshooting. It can read and clear fault codes, display live data, work with multiple control units, and support both older serial link systems and newer CAN-BUS-based diagnostics. With proper installation, the correct driver, and careful use, it is a very useful tool for troubleshooting and service on Opel/Vauxhall.