OP-COM V1.99 for Opel/Vauxhall – FT232RQ + PIC18F458 OBD2 Diagnostic Interface with CAN-BUS Support

Brief Overview

OP-COM V1.99 is a PC-based OBD2 diagnostic interface for Opel and Vauxhall, designed for those who want to do more than generic engine diagnostics. With support for many Opel-specific control units, the tool can be used to read and clear fault codes, view live data, read measuring blocks, and perform output tests on compatible systems.

This version is stated to have firmware V1.99, software 2014V/120309a, FT232RQ driver IC, and a PIC18F458 chip according to the main specification. The product text describes support for many Opel models, including newer vehicles with CAN-BUS-based diagnostics, such as Vectra-C, Astra-H, and Zafira-B.

OP-COM is particularly useful because Opel uses several different communication pathways in the OBD connector. The interface therefore acts as a multiplexer and selects the correct pin for communication, such as serial link via PIN3/PIN7/PIN8/PIN12, as well as HSCAN, MSCAN, and SWCAN for CAN-BUS systems.

Important: The product information clearly states “Never Update Online”. Therefore, do not update the interface online if your delivery has this warning, as an incorrect update can damage the OP-COM interface or render it unusable. Always use the software and driver that comes with your specific delivery.

• Product: OP-COM V1.99 / OP-Com 2014V Can OBD2 for Opel
• Firmware: V1.99
• Software: 2014V / 120309a
• Driver IC: FT232RQ
• Core chip: PIC18F458 according to main specification
• Language: English
• For: Opel/Vauxhall with OBD2 and supported systems

What is OP-COM V1.99?

OP-COM is a specialized diagnostic interface for Opel/Vauxhall used in conjunction with a Windows computer. It is not just a simple OBD2 reader for the engine light, but an Opel-adapted tool that can communicate with several different control units in the car, depending on the model, year, equipment level, and software support.

The interface connects to the car's 16-pin OBD2 socket and to the computer via USB. The OP-COM software is then used to select the car model and control unit, read fault codes, display measurement values, and in some cases, perform activation tests.

The version in this product description is stated as Firmware V1.99 and Software 2014V/120309a. It is also referred to as the OPCOM 2014V diagnostic tool for Opel cars.

Advantages of Opel-adapted diagnostics

• More than generic OBD2: support for many Opel-specific systems and control units.
• CAN-BUS support: also intended for newer Opel models with CAN-based diagnostics.
• Multiple modules: for example, engine, automatic transmission, ABS, instrument cluster, climate control, and body module.
• Live data: monitor measurement values in real-time and compare sensor data.
• Output tests: activate selected components in supported systems for troubleshooting.
• USB-based: no serial-to-USB adapter needed.
• Affordable solution: a popular alternative for Opel diagnostics compared to much more expensive workshop tools.

Features

According to the product information, OP-COM V1.99 can be used for several important diagnostic functions:

1. Read fault codes from supported control units.
2. Clear fault codes after the fault has been rectified.
3. View live data from the car's systems.
4. View measuring blocks and select parameters from lists in the program.
5. Display up to 8 measurement values simultaneously, depending on the communication protocol and control unit.
6. Perform output tests on many controls where the function is supported.
7. Save/print fault code information where the program supports this.
8. Service interval-related functions for certain models according to the product's FAQ.

Some advanced functions require extra knowledge, the correct car model, and the correct security code/Car-Pass where relevant.

Supported control units

The product text mentions support for many control units. Exact support varies between car models and model years. Examples of systems mentioned:

• Engine – engine control
• Automatic Transmission – automatic transmission
• ABS – anti-lock brakes
• Airbag/SRS – safety systems where supported
• Engine Cooling Module – cooling system/cooling fan control
• Instrument Cluster / IPC – instrument cluster
• Electronic Climate Control – climate control system
• Body Control Unit / BCM – body and comfort module
• ECM – engine control module

For simpler troubleshooting, one normally starts with engine control, but the strength of OP-COM is that the tool can often access more systems than a typical generic OBD2 reader.

Fault codes with full status information

OP-COM can display fault codes with more information than a simple code list. The product text mentions, among other things, full status information:

• Present: the fault is currently active.
• Not present: the fault is stored but not active at the time of reading.
• Intermittent: the fault occurs occasionally, often due to loose connections, voltage drops, or temporary sensor problems.

This is important for troubleshooting, as an intermittent fault often requires a different troubleshooting method than a permanently active fault. From the fault code window, according to the product text, you can proceed to measuring blocks to check relevant live data.

Live data and measuring blocks

The program displays measurement values from many control units. You can select parameters from the list and monitor several values simultaneously. According to the product information, the program can display 8 measuring block parameters simultaneously.

Examples of useful measurement values

• Engine speed
• Coolant temperature
• Intake air temperature
• MAF/mass airflow sensor
• Throttle position
• Battery voltage
• ABS wheel speeds where supported
• Status of sensors, buttons, and relays
• Climate and body-related values where supported

The sampling rate depends on the car's communication system. Older ISO/KWP systems can be slow, while newer CAN-based systems normally provide significantly faster updates.

Output tests

According to the product information, OP-COM can perform output tests on many controls. Output tests are used to activate a component or function via the control unit, for example, to see if a fan, valve, lamp, relay, or other controlled component responds.

This is a very useful function for troubleshooting, but it should be used with caution. Never activate a test if you do not know what the component does or if the car is not safely positioned.

Safety: Output tests can start fans, pumps, or other components. Keep hands, tools, and cables away from moving parts.

CAN-BUS and multiplexer function

Opel uses several different communication pins in the OBD connector. The OP-COM interface therefore acts as a multiplexer and selects the correct pin for communication with the respective system.

Communication pathways 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 multiplexer function is a major reason why OP-COM can be more useful on Opel than a simple ELM327-based OBD2 reader.

Installation and driver

Basic installation

1. Use a Windows computer and log in with administrator rights.
2. Install or extract the OP-COM program included with the delivery.
3. Install the USB driver for FT232RQ/USB interface according to the supplier's instructions.
4. Connect the OP-COM to the computer via USB.
5. Check in Device Manager that the interface is recognized without a yellow warning triangle.
6. Run the OP-COM program as an administrator.
7. Use the Test Interface function before connecting to the car.

If Windows shows Code 28

Code 28 normally means the driver is not installed. Solution:

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 drivers.
5. Point to the folder containing the driver that came with the OP-COM.
6. Install, restart the computer, and test again.

Tips for “adapter not found”

• Run the program as an administrator.
• Try another USB port directly on the computer.
• Avoid USB hubs and docking stations.
• Check that the correct driver is installed.
• Restart the computer after driver installation.
• Check that you are using the correct program version for this specific interface.

Important: do not update online

The product information clearly states: “Never Update Online. Online Updation Will Damage The OP-COM.”

This means you should not attempt to update the interface online if your delivery has this warning. An incorrect update can cause the interface to stop working. Therefore, only use the software and firmware that belong to your specific adapter.

• Do not update firmware online.
• Do not mix program versions if you are unsure.
• Do not use automatic updates from another source.
• Always save the original files that came with the product.

Compatibility

According to the product text, OP-COM 2014V covers almost all Opel models, including newer models with CAN-BUS-based diagnostics. Examples mentioned include:

• Opel Vectra-C
• Opel Astra-H
• Opel Zafira-B
• Several other Opel/Vauxhall models depending on model year and control unit

Exact support always depends on the car model, model year, ECU version, installed equipment, and the software's database. A function available on one model does not necessarily work on another.

Specifications

Note on chip information: The documentation mentions PIC18F458 in the main specification, but also includes a line where 18F45K80 is mentioned. Check physical marking/supplier variant if chip version is crucial for the customer.

Package contents

• 1 × OP-COM V1.99 diagnostic interface for Opel/Vauxhall
• 1 × USB/OBD2 connection as per delivery
• Software/driver as per delivery

Note: Exact contents may vary depending on delivery. Always check the product's accompanying instructions.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1) What is OP-COM V1.99?

It is a PC-based OBD2 diagnostic interface for Opel/Vauxhall with firmware V1.99 and software 2014V/120309a according to the product information.

2) What language is the software in?

The product information states that this version is only in English.

3) What chip is in this OP-COM?

The main specification states PIC18F458 and driver IC FT232RQ.

4) Can it read and clear fault codes?

Yes, it can read and clear fault codes on supported Opel control units.

5) Can it display live data?

Yes, the program can display measuring blocks/live data and up to 8 parameters simultaneously where the system supports this.

6) Does it support CAN-BUS?

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

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

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

8) Can I update the interface online?

No, not if your delivery states “Never Update Online”. The product text warns that online updates can damage the OP-COM.

9) Is a serial-to-USB adapter needed?

No, the interface is USB-based. The product text states that this avoids compatibility issues with serial-to-USB converters.

10) Can it perform output tests?

Yes, output tests are mentioned as a feature on many controllers where the car and the control unit support it.

11) Can it manage service intervals?

The product's FAQ mentions resetting/programming service interval reminders for, among others, Astra-G, Zafira, Corsa-C, and Meriva.

12) Can it be used for keys/immobilizer?

The product text mentions immobilizer and key-related functions. Such functions should only be used legally, on one's own vehicles or with explicit permission, and may require the vehicle's security code/Car-Pass. We do not recommend inexperienced users to work with anti-theft systems.

13) What do "Present", "Not present" and "Intermittent" mean?

It shows the status of the fault code: active fault, stored but not active fault, or a fault that comes and goes.

14) Why is OP-COM better than a simple OBD2 reader on Opel?

OP-COM is Opel-adapted and can communicate via several Opel-specific pins and CAN lines, providing support for more systems than generic OBD2.

15) Is this a tool for beginners?

For simple fault code reading, it can be used by experienced home mechanics, but advanced functions such as output tests, coding, and security-related functions require knowledge.

Safety and Disclaimer

• Do not update online if the product warns against it.
• Read and save fault codes before erasing them.
• Do not erase fault codes haphazardly – address the root cause first.
• Use a support charger during longer diagnostics, output tests, or programming.
• Output tests can activate components. Use with caution.
• Airbag/SRS and brake systems must be handled with proper knowledge and safety procedures.
• Key/immobilizer functions should only be used legally and authorized. We do not provide instructions for bypassing anti-theft systems.
• Do not change coding unless you know exactly what the function does.
• Do not use diagnostic software actively while driving.

Summary

OP-COM V1.99 with FT232RQ and PIC18F458 is an Opel-adapted PC diagnostic interface for those who want to read and erase fault codes, view live data, check measuring blocks, and perform output tests on supported Opel/Vauxhall models. With support for both older serial link systems and CAN-BUS lines such as HSCAN, MSCAN, and SWCAN, it is a powerful tool for Opel troubleshooting.

The most important note is to follow the supplier's software and not update online if the product warns against it. With proper installation and responsible use, OP-COM V1.99 is a very useful tool for troubleshooting, service, and diagnostics on Opel.