October 2023 - 52

Prologics
Sensor Simulator & 12V/24V
Sensor Voltage Probe
Reviewed by Phil Fournier, owner of Phil's Auto Clinic in Hemet, California.
Q: How did the tools function
as far as saving you time?
A: These tools save many unnecessary
parts installations if used as designed. For
example, too many technicians are content
to read a code, say, for a vehicle speed
sensor issue on a wheel, and go straight to
the recommendation and installation of a
wheel bearing with a sensor integral to it. If
the problem turns out to be a wiring issue
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
The Prologics Sensor Simulator is
designed to simulate and actuate an
output signal from automotive sensors
incorporating frequency, voltage, and
test sequences. The Sensor Simulator
lets the technician know if the faulty
operation is a defective sensor, an
issue with the ECM / ECU, or a defect
in the wiring. It can simulate ABS sensors,
lambda sensors, EGR, CKP, MAP,
knock sensors, and more.
The 12V/24V Sensor Voltage Probe
by Prologics can emulate signals generated
by different types of sensors in
a vehicle. Simply set the output voltage
to the correct value and activate it with
either 3A or 150mA on a permanent
output or with a switch. Whether checking
the component independently or
using a diagnostic scanner, this voltage
probe is designed to make it easy to
identify if the fault lies in the sensor or
its connection.
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or a module issue, it turns into an ethical
dilemma. Who pays for the part that was
installed that didn't solve the problem? Or
do I return the part as " defective " ? Either
way, someone is being cheated and this tool
can quickly and easily be used to simulate
the signal BEFORE the part is replaced
which is a huge benefit.
Q: What types of jobs/repairs
did you use these tools for?
A: I used them on a 2021 Chevy Silverado
1500 with P0521 and P0522 codes. The oil
pressure indication on the scan tool varied
wildly. Rather than replace the sensor
and hope that was it, the simulator tool
connected to the pigtail output a specific
voltage, which should have resulted in a
steady pressure reading on the scan tool. It
didn't, which proved the problem was not
the sensor. The problem was in a chaffed
harness causing the signal wire to ground
out and reading 0 psi when the actual oil
pressure was completely normal.
This product was given to the reviewer free of charge from the manufacturer.
52 PTEN OCTOBER 2023 www.VehicleServicePros.com
Q: How was its packaging? Did it
come with any accessories?
A: The tools come in a sturdy plastic box
which I wish was just a little bit larger as the
leads need to be coiled up properly to fit.
The only accessories are the voltage leads.
Q: What features did you like?
A: I like the backlit screen and the builtin
flashlight on the one model. Since I'm
an automotive instructor as well, I see
huge benefits in using the tool to teach
entry-level technicians sensor functions
without having to deal with the danger of
a running engine. It's also a great tool for
demonstrating lab scope functions. I love
the versatility of the wide and extremely
precise ability to adjust the tool's outputs.
Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, how would
you rate these tools overall? Why?
A: I give them a nine. If parts companies
could convince technicians to use these
tools in lieu of installing parts that may
not be needed, the savings in returned
parts would be enormous. As an automotive
instructor, I can see almost endless
possibilities to use this tool in a lab-type
teaching environment.
PHIL FOURNIER has been the
owner/technician at Phil's Auto
Clinic for 32 years and a working
auto technician for 45 years.
Fournier received his ASE Master
Certification in 1982 and his AAM
from the Automotive Management Institute in
1994. Currently, he works as a consultant doing
diagnosis, reprogramming, and virtual instruction.
Fournier currently holds 17 ASE certifications
including ASE Master Auto and Master truck plus
L1, L2, and L3.
http://protoolequipment.hotims.com/r5/search.asp?action=search&return_by_category=y http://www.VehicleServicePros.com
October 2023

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of October 2023
