AutoXray Introduces Its Next Generation Automotive Diagnostics Tool

TEMPE, Ariz., Nov. 5, 2002; AutoXray makes preparing for the future simple. Announcing the release of AutoXray's next generation of automotive scanners -- the EZ-Link II. The EZ-Link II is the first diagnostic scanner on the market to feature the Communications Area Network (CAN) protocol, which is the protocol of the future for onboard automotive computers.

The CAN protocol allows for more capability and flexibility to communicate with on board systems, and is already being used by manufacturers including GM, Ford, Mazda and SAAB among others. While other protocols are still being used by automobile manufacturers, CAN is expected to be the dominant protocol by 2008.

"CAN finally brings a single standard to On Board Diagnostics (OBD) vehicle communication, which was the original intent with OBD-II in 1996," says Mike McCarthy of the California Air Resources Board (CARB). "CAN will improve aftermarket diagnostics and enhance state and federal emissions programs."

Regarding CAN's impact on state and federal emissions programs, Arvon Mitcham of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) agrees: "The future of automobile diagnostics will be implemented using CAN, therefore it is imperative that I&M programs incorporate CAN capabilities in to their equipment." (I&M is an abbreviation for state run "Inspection and Maintenance" programs.)

"At AutoXray, we've always been forward looking in our design strategy," says AutoXray CEO William Miller. "By making our new EZ-Link II CAN- compliant, we're enabling both professional technicians and 'do it yourselfers' to keep up with the very latest in automotive computing technology."

During the development of the EZ-Link II, AutoXray surveyed users to learn what elements (in addition to CAN-compliance) would further improve our scanners. In keeping with our Simple to Use & Simple to Own(SM) philosophy, the EZ-Link II includes the following new features:

* New Ergonomic Design * Large Eight Line Display * Real-time Pass through Connectivity * Backlit Display with 32 step Contrast Control * Quick Step(TM) Navigation * OBD-I, OBD-II Generic, MFG Specific, and Enhanced OBD-II software support

Based in Tempe, Arizona, AutoXray is the leader in effective, affordable diagnostic scanning solutions for both professional and amateur mechanics. AutoXray's flagship product, the EZ-Link Scanner, is equipped with OBD-II compliant software, and is upgradable via the Internet. AutoXray has won the Popular Mechanics Editor's Choice Award for their positive impact on the automotive industry three years in a row. For more information, visit www.autoxray.com .