VAG software emulator review

[David Head <dave.head@worldnet.att.net>]

I recieved the Baum emulator today from my mechanic - he's never used it
as he has no laptop. Loaded it up and connected it to the 90 V8q...
First, before I get a host of 'gimmes' - although the software 'could'
be 'passed', it'll do no good. The hardware connector has a
decoder/isolator pcb that has all electronic component numbers removed.
It also is designed for the Motronic and above - so 90 V8qs and up, 3B
engine code, V6, S4, A4, etc. Also up through OBDII.
However, it seems the used are limited for my 90. I retrieved engine and
trans codes (it even told me I'd forgotten to set the emerg brake!), and
could clear them with a click, but the real diagnosis use is reserved
for the later models. I was unable to talk to the airbag, brakes, etc.
You have the ability to review individual sensors, but the
graphing/display capabilities aren't present for my ECU. It would be fun
to hook it up to a later model Audi - it can talk to central locking,
sunroof, instrument cluster, etc, etc.
To me, it definitely isn't worth the 799.00 price. However, if/when I
get a 'newer' Audi, I would definitely spring for it - makes diagnostics
a breeze! Once I get a V8 manual in hand, I'll review their instructions
on its use just to see how much more useful it could be.
It even allows recoding of the chip in place for octane, etc. You have
to have the factory access codes from the manual, though.
FYI, my V8 had the 2342 O2 sensor intermiitent code (probably left over
from the bad one - reset with no return) and no transmission codes
(except the brake one I rectified).