What diagnostic adapter do you prefer

Tell you what adapter people use most. Here are views after the vote in the forum dedicated to all’s favorite adapter to share pros and cons and learn tips and tricks.
Here is my 2cents or 2.03cents Canadian on Diagnostic Interfaces.
DG Tech DPA4 or 4+: #2 Choice Metal case makes it durable (must use original USB cable to take advantage of USB port protection)
NEXIQ USB Link: #1 Choice can also be used with toyota techstream and isuzu IDSS (Must be very careful to not break the usb port on older style)
Nexiq Magikey: Was the best back in the day (Need a PC with printer port to connect)
Nexiq LiteLink: Works with Snapon Modis (older J1708 Data Bus only)
Cummins Inline: RP1210a compliant for apps other than Cummins Insite (Doesnt work well with all rp1210a applications)
Movimento/Navlink: Only way to connect to TCU via IDS on Ford/Int LCF/CF Trucks??? (Freezes using servicemax on some laptops)
Navistar IC4: Small durable adapter (Bad customer support, hard to find drivers, USB cable is part of adapter)
Older PF-Diagnose adapter (B&B Electronics): Small durable adapter (serial cable connection)
Eaton Wireless: Long wireless range (intermittent data loss even at close range)
Noregon DLA: #3 Choice alternative to Nexiq and Dearborn (Large size/odd shape)
Caterpillar II: Only way to connect to some offroad equipment with CDL data Bus (Need PC with printer port)
This is just my opinion on the adapters above based on personal use.
There are other adapters available and other peoples results/opinions may differ.

Where to buy a good Nexiq USB Link 2 at a decent price

Look here: NEXIQ USB Link 2 genuine/clone price, where to buy, bluetooth setup, troubleshooting, compatible application, car list, user manual, etc
What is Nexiq USB Link 2:
It’s the second generation of NEXIQ USB Link for truck troubleshooting.

Nexiq USB Link 2 pcb:

Nexiq USB Link 2 for sale:
There are many Nexiq USB Link 2 for sale on the market, some genuine and some clone.
And for most of you, you may go to Heavy Duty Scanner Nexiq USB Link 2 amazon and Nexiq USB Link 2 ebay as usual. But actually, it’s not a good option to have diagnostic tools there because you hardly ever get professional tech support of diagnosis after sale.
Nexiq USB Link 2 genuine vs clone:
Look here:

How to spot a China Nexiq USB Link 2 Clone
Nexiq USB Link 2 price:
The original should be 700 usd and even more. Definitely the original is the best option for trucks troubleshooting. But if you have a budget limit, try to have a good Nexiq USB Link 2 china clone at a decent price: usually less than 200 usd
Nexiq USB Link 2 bluetooth setup:
Get tech support after sale via obd2tool.com
Note that Nexiq USB Link 2 wifi is not available for the clone.
For the different between Nexiq USB Link 2 bluetooth and Nexiq USB Link 2 wifi, look here:
Which to choose,Nexiq 1 or 2? WiFi or Bluetooth?
Nexiq USB Link 2 troubleshooting:
Class 1 Bluetooth provides up to 100 feet of wireless freedom
Flexible configuration supports wired or wireless connectivity
Compatible with applications that diagnose engines, transmissions, ABS, instrument panels and more
Reduce reprogramming times with direct USB connection
Mixed fleet capabilities with broad protocol support
Quick access to vehicle data for maintenance or management reports
Quickly attaches to vehicle’s diagnostic connector
No messy cables to untangle or get in the way with Bluetooth
Easy portability increases flexibility
May be used with desktop PC or laptop
Nexiq USB Link 2 compatible application:
Detroit Diesel Diagnostic Link
CAT Electronic Technician (On-Highway only)
Cummins Insite
International – ServiceMAXX Fleet Pro
Hino eXplorer
Volvo PTT (Premium Tech Tool)
VCAD Elite Mack/Volvo
V-MAC Service Tools
Allison DOC? For PC-Service Tool – Protocols Supported: J1939, J1708/J1587, and J1850
Allison DOC? For Fleets (1000/2000) – Protocols Supported: J1939, J1850
Allison DOC? For Fleets (3000/4000) – Protocols Supported: J1939, J1708/J1587
Eaton ServiceRanger
Bendix ACom
WABCO Toolbox
Freightliner ServiceLink
International ABS
International DLB
International Intune
International IPC v2.02
Pocketfleet Software (PF-Diagnose)
Nexiq USB Link 2 clone application confirmed:
*  Allison (Included!)
*  Bendix 6.3.8.0 (Included!)
*  Detroit Diesel DDDL 7.05 ((Included!)
*  Detroit Diesel DDCT (Included!)
*  Detroit Diesel Calibration Tool (Included!)
*  Eaton Service Ranger 3.2 (Included!)
*  International DLB (Included!)
*  International ICAP, IPTS, NETS, IPC (Included!)
*  International Master Diagnostic (Incluided!)
*  Meritor and Wabco Diagnostics (Included!)
*  Cummins Insite 7.5 (Included!)
*  Hino 2.0.2. (Included!)
*  Caterpillar 2.0.1.0 (Included!)
*  Perkins EST 2010B (Included!)
*  V Macks 2.6.12 (Included!)
*  V Macks Dealer Pro (Included!)
*  Volvo VCADS 2.35.10 (Included!)
*  Toyota Techstream for car (Included!)
Nexiq USB Link 2 car list:
VOLVO TRUCK:FM10, NH565, FH12, FM12, VHD, FH16, FM7, VN, WC, WG, WI, FH565, NH12, FL6, FL7, FL10, FL12, NH525, WX, COMP04, FE, VHD, FH, FM, VM, FM9, F10, F12 , F16, NL10, NL12,VOLVO BUSES: B10B, B10M, B10L, B10R, M10R, B12, B58, B6, B7R, OLYMPIAN, SUPEROLY
VOLVO BUS: B12B,B12M,B12R,B6R,B7L,B7R,B9L,B9R,B9S,B9TL,PREVH,PREVX,
MACK TRUCKS: V-MAC I, V-MAC II, V-MAC III, V-MAC IV, Service Diagnostic
VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT (CE):
Wheel loader: L110E, L110F, L120E, L120F, L150E, L150F, L180E, L180F, L220E, L220F, L330E, L350F, L60E, L60F, L70E, L70F, L90E, L90F
Articulated Hauler: A25D, A25E, A30D, A30E, A35D, A35E, A40D, A40E, T450D,
Excavator: EC135B, EC140B, EC140C, EC160B, EC160C, EC180B, EC180C, EC210B, EC210C, EC235C, EC240B, EC240C, EC290B, EC290C, EC330B, EC330C, EC360B,EC360C, EC460B, EC460C, EC700C, EC700B, EC700C, ECR145C, ECR235C, ECR305C, EW140B, EW140C, EW145B, EW145C, EW160B, EW160C, EW180B, EW180C, EW200B,EW210C, FC2121C, FC2421C, FC2924C, FC3329C, PL4611
Grader: G710B, G720B, G726B, G730B, G740B, G746B, G780B, G930, G940, G946, G960 , G970, G976, G990
Navistar: ALL Diamond Logic Builder (DLB) ServiceMaxx
International: ALL Intune, MD32,
Freightliner: ALL ServiceLink:cascadia,century,columbia,Coronado,classic,FLDSD,4900FA, 4900SA,4900EX.
HINO: ENGINE:300SERIES, 500 SERIES, CR03_J08E, CR03_J05D, COMMONRAIL(J05E), J05D_US, J08E_US,P11C,VCS, Hibrid, Inverter, Brake(ABS), AT_45043LE
ISUZU_GMC: 1996-1999 NPR Diesel and F Series Include NPR/W 3500, NPR HD/W 4500, This is for 6.0L V-8 Gasoline Engines only, 7.8L 6HK1 Engine
Isuzu: NPR, NPR HD, NQR, NRR, FTR, FVR, FXR with 6HK1 LG4 Engine, NPR, NPR HD,NQR, NRR with 5.2L (4HK1) or 3.0L (4JJ1) Diesel engine. 6.0L V-8 Gasoline Engine
GM: W3500, W4500, W5500, WT5500, W5500 HD,with 5.2L Diesel Engine Only,T6500,T7500, T8500

Cummins Inline 7 vs Nexiq USB Link 2

I am going to by by adapter for Cummins but I am confused between Inline 7 and NEXIQ USB Link 2…..
please any advice and what is the difference between both of them.
Thanks
Advice.. here you go
Mikeservice:
Nothing different other than inline comes with inline harness to plug into any Cummins harness if you can’t talk through oem side
Undeadmechanic:
Inline 7 is built by NEXIQ USB Link for Cummins. They slap their sticker on it, and give you the extra harness to plug into the backbone directly.
I ordered an inline 6 to get the extra goodies for benching and they sent a 7 instead. I’m not complaining, lol. I haven’t installed it yet, but it may have a different firmware than the “real” usb link 2. I’ll find out when I get around to installing it since I now have one of each.
silnoreki :
Inline have both blutooth and wifi and slighty faster even when looks same.Im happy with my inline7,just 2 cents.
Sdtruck12:
i can use inline 7 for everything from ddct to jpro and n14. from obd2tool to new works great for programming real fast. Sometimes cummins only like cummins adapters, like n14 m11 570 stuff like that in my experience at least
harobaua:
The two differences I have noticed are:
1. Inline 7 has wifi and bluetooth at the time, nexiq only one at a time.
2. Nexiq 2 has more protocols than Inline 7, for example the Inline 7 does not work with Hino, Toyota, Isuzu.

Which Tool is Best for Truck Diagnostic & Programming

Have search info for a few days ago because I want to learn about how to set myself up with Truck Diagnostic Tool/programming software and the proper tools to do my own work.
Topic: Looking for a good truck performance programmer
Purpose:
I want to be able to read codes on our trucks, address check engine lights, abd lights and whatever else.
Changing parameters would also be nice to do.
Truck:
We have 5 trucks. 3 of mine all have series 60. From ddec 2 up to ddec 4. He has an isx and an Acert. Our trucks are kenworth, Peterbilt and a intl 9200. Would also like cab side on those.
Budget:
I think a $4-500 one should fit the bill.
(Am I able to find everything I need rather than paying some company $4-5k for a tough book and some programming?)
Diagnostic tools looking for trucks:
I have seen a nexiq also the new NEXIQ USB Link 2 and a drewlinq. I think they all serve the same purpose?
Recommendation for hookup: (credits to Samsquantch84)
Laptop: You can pick up a used Lenovo T410 on the web for like $200. They are durable laptops not the best battery life. but get one that has an i5 processor. They are more than fast enough. If you get a laptop that is a little under powered it makes the programs run slow which is really annoying for doing diagnostics. They are pretty rugged laptops.
Equipment: Definitely the best solution is to buy an authentic Nexiq usb link one or two. But if within your budget, a good Nexiq clone of high quality (now called VXTRUCK) should be OK. It’s $200 around. I have to tell you, you need have luck with Chine clone coz you may have nothing but issues with the clone. Go to a good man of his word to trust.
The only real difference between the old one and the new one is the two is that the usb link two supports newer vehicles like ghg17. You probably won’t need it.
Also be careful buying one online unless it is a reputable source. There are some really good looking clones available that are deceiving. obd2tool.com is a supplier of the HQ NEXIQ USB Link and has great support so that is the only source I recommend. I have used it to program a new chip. Success.

Software: As far as software goes. Find Detroit DDDL, Cat ET 2017, Cummins insite 8.1 and you should be good to go. All are easy to get for free from forums or other place.  Also, have a try with crack versions tested by professionals. If you start getting into new Pete’s or kenworth’s like 2012’s(my date’s might be alittle off) and up paccar esa might be handy as well. It connects to the body controller side and allows you to control things like if you install led headlights in a truck that had incandescent you have to change a setting in the cecu for it to work. Also keep learning. There is so much help and information available on this forum from some of the right people. you will learn who they are. Congrats on trying to better your self. and if you have any questions just ask. International uses diamond logic build for the cab side. It’s not the most user friendly software, just like their trucks, who in their right minds uses straight thread o-ring to push to connect air fittings…errrrrr. Also you can go on
quickserve.cummins.com and register for a free limited owners plan which gives you access to parts and service manuals for up to 5 engine serial numbers for free. and dependent on your peterbilt and kenworth dealers you can register with them your vin numbers to a fleet e-cat. It gives you access to look up your vin numbers and view wiring diagrams. It can come in handy.

Nexiq USB Link 2 Changes

In early 2015, Nexiq Technologies discontinued the “tried and true” original Nexiq USB Link. This adapter had been around for around 7 years, and was wildly popular. One of the main reasons that the Nexuq USB Link became so popular was because of their distribution. Nexiq is 100% owned by Snap On, so between the large marketing spends, industry trade shows, and Snap On tool trucks, Nexiq has an unmatched distribution network. The other large source of their distribution comes from formal truck dealerships, as Nexiq is the recommended product for various truck manufacturers such as International, Freightliner, and many others.

We’ve literally sold over 1,000 of the original Nexiq USB Link, so to say we are familiar with them is an understatement. Lets talk about some of the changes that we’ve noticed with this new and improved NEXIQ 2.

The first thing we’ve noticed is that Nexiq is no longer packaging their adapter in the “Nexiq Box” that they’ve frequently used for not only the USB Link, but other products as well. Here is what the original box looked like: Nexiq has decided not to provide this packaging with the Auto Scanner Tools USB Link 2, but I guess who really cares about packaging?

For all its popularity, the original Nexiq USB Link had some serious design issues. The main issue was with the USB connector at the bottom. The original design was very poor, and lets face it, these devices are being used by diesel and auto technicians. To say they are rough on tools would be an understatement.

The main problem is that due to the bending of the USB cord and constant plugging/unplugging of it, the USB port would break off the motherboard inside the device. When this happened, you would have to send it to Nexiq to be repaired. Although the cost wasn’t bad (Around $150), the downtime of 3-4 weeks is what made it difficult for people. NEXIQ USB Link 2 did go through a couple “fixes” for this, such as creating a USB Link restrainer (shown below) and upgrading the USB port to the heavy duty “orange” style. By using both of these options, it did tend to help the issue. I only bring this up, because the new USB Link 2 appears to have solved that issue. The design they’ve come up with made it so that the USB cable really can’t be pushed around, and it gets “socketed” into the adapter.