Just got my new toy today (AE Total Ford Bundle). Installed software on toughbook. I read Clay's install instructions and didn't see a blue activation sheet in box. Not to worry as the read me first instructions say if you purchased enhancements the Proline VCI is pre-programmed with the code to activate them.

After booting up the software I went to help and then activation. Ford is not activated. Do I need to connect the computer to the truck for it to all fall into place? Or do I need the blue activation page to manually input the ford code? Has anyone got AE in the past week and did you receive a blue activation form (old school?) or is it already on the software. I tried calling Clay but his phones are down. So I sent him a message from his website.

 

Probably should call Clay. Mine has a blue half sheet of paper with 2 stop signs on top left and right. The title is Enhanced Activation Instructions. Maybe it got left out.

 

Step 1: Install Software

Step 2: Select the Help | Feature Activation menu items.

Step 3: Click Activate

Step 4: Enter Activation Code

 

All you should have to connect to the computer is the VCI. It should be shipped activated.

Also, go to AE webpage and ask for the latest software which came out in January 2015. It will save you $150 fee next year when your subscription expires.

 

Just went thru this, No more activation code. It will self activate when you hook up to the DLC. Make sure the Dongle is plugged in to your Laptop first....then startup Giotto. Turn on your key(don't start it yet) and it will self discover. Follow the screen prompts.

 

Got a hold of Clay and the blue sheet activation code is for older versions of AE. If you get some fresh AE with whatever bundle it's already loaded. it has to be plugged into to vehicle port before it will activate. Now off to activate it. Then install my Isspro fuel pressure gauge with the new and improved fuel sending unit. But I first must paint my steering wheel pod.

Tuggly are there anymore seats in the AE classroom? Sign me up! Class dismissed!

Props and perks and rants and raves to all those in the FTE brotherhood for your expert knowledge base!

 

You know your old when your AE is old....

 

 

You will begin to like AE once you get your way around. Touch Screen on a Toughbook is a Plus.

I started to migrate to AE because its just sometimes easier. Rather than carrying around a ton ok "Keys" for Snap-On or Waiting for someone who has all the IDS Notebooks tied up doing pretty much nothing.

The only thing AE is lacking (because it can't have everything at its price) is the ability to graph more than 4 inputs, and its ability to graph cylinder contribution on a chart real-time. That and a few minor things I use exclusive to the IDS. Other than that, I think it's a lot of bang for the buck. On the other hand, you can record sessions like the rest AND use Excel or Open Office to build graphs, you can't do that with most.

I started with the Ford Bundle, then Chrysler, them GM, then BMW, then ..... they started adding bundles for Domestic, European, Asian, etc.

So much for saving money........... If you plan on using it on more than one model vehicle, consider the entire bundle such as "Domestic".

I had to argue with them to credit me some Subscription Fees (actually they just extended the timeframe). I understand their dilemma, they're realigning their products to be more attractive to the customer. But why me? Why always me?

You may want to put a note on your calendar and check for an up-date 11 months from now. They don't contact you to let you know your subscription is about to expire or let you know there are upgrades available which are free during the subscription period.

 

Hmmm. How old is your version? I've got V13, and I can live log 8 graphs at once. I don't know about Cylinder cont. yet, I haven't tried it yet. It's a pretty extensive program...Still got lots of Learn'in to do

 

I'm running v11.0 or v11.5 I think. There's a v13? I'll have to check that out. I know they're always trying to improve their product. I started with something like v9.

The IDS is "almost" idiot proof (and 20x more expensive!). But, does nothing to help your skill level or understanding of the overall system. The right Payne has an explanation about every thing your viewing including codes, diagrams, etc. There is no need to learn, juts follow directions. I'm old school. I like to know the who, what, where, why, and when of something.

 

Yeah, Me too. That's why I called AE up and asked them about no Actv, code....I was telling Tug that I'm a Microsoft baby, since W3.18, and you want that key in your back pocket for the inevitable Crashageddon. I've never trusted electronic devices to last forever. Especially a USB dongle. The software updates are available for free for a year( supposedly 4 a year ) Then it's $50.00 a year after that. It includes New year updates for your enhancements

 

If you connect to the vehicle and can select "Enhanced Powertrain", your'e registered.



I've been doing computer stuff since the Commodore VIC20 with cassette data storage and DOS with 5 1/4" floppy drives. I now work with bleeding edge technology every day. If our software was printed, the ink would be wet as we use it in production. We are a beta test site for new technology in the Ag business, and I can tell you this: The stuff from around our age of truck was the pinnacle of reliability. After that, electronics got too fancy to be durable.

 

Hah! I've still got my Vic AND my C 64! And in my opinion, The Pinnacle of AG technology died when IH quit making Real Tractors! I'm Red Til I'm Dead!

 

East of the Cascades?