Computer programmer 2000 Excursion 7.3L
Programmer:
Connects to the diagnostic port and reprograms the computer's EERPOM. This has the most control over computer's functions, including the transmission functions. All programmers at this point include diagnostic functions. Some like Diablo also have live sensor reads. Products that fall into this category: Superchips Microtuner, Diablosport Predator, Edge Evolution (7.3L only, does not exist for the 6.0L yet), Hypertech Power Programmer III. These do not include gauges.
Chip:
Connects to the test port on the computer and overrides the EEPROM. If it is a 4 bank chip (most are these days) it gives full control over the computer's functions, including the transmission. These do not include gauges. Products include Diablo Sport, Superchips, Banks Hoss and a ton of smaller players. None have diagnostic functions.
Fueling box:
Connects to the wiring harness external to the computer. Does not override the computer's EEPROM. Changes the fueling and timing curves, not the transmission (this is why these devices have problems with the 6.0's tranny). Examples: Banks Six-Gun Diesel Tuner (not really a tuner), Edge EZ, Edge Juice/Attitude, Bulley Dog and a bunch of others (a lot of them are actually relabeled). The Banks includes guages and the Edge Juice/Attitude have gauges. These do not include diagnostic functions because they are not tuners.
If you want a tuner with diagnostics you get the gauges separately. Some companies may add the guages as part of a package deal but they aren't part of the tuner.





