The untouched original is the recovery point and technical reference for the entire file job. Protect it before changing, renaming or writing anything.
1. Identify the vehicle and controller
Record make, model, year, engine, transmission and ECU/TCU information reported by the tool. Save HW and SW numbers as text or a readable screenshot. Do not rely only on the file name supplied by another person.
2. Stabilise the electrical system
Use professional battery support suitable for the vehicle and procedure. Voltage loss during identification, reading or writing can corrupt a controller. Follow the current tool and vehicle-manufacturer instructions.
3. Record the read method
Read through the diagnostic connector when the tool and protocol support it.
Connect directly to the controller outside the normal vehicle network according to the tool protocol.
Use the specific low-level access procedure only with correct pinout, training and equipment.
Identify that the file was supplied from a server reference rather than read byte-for-byte from the ECU.
4. Preserve an untouched copy
Keep one read-only copy outside the tuning tool or job folder. Use a clear name containing vehicle, ECU, HW, SW, date and ORI. Never overwrite it with a modified file.
5. Record diagnostics before clearing
Scan and save DTCs and relevant freeze-frame or live-data context. Clearing everything before recording it removes evidence the calibrator may need. Repair mechanical or electrical faults before calibration.
6. Submit a complete brief
Include hardware changes, fuel, transmission, duty cycle, symptoms and exact objective. State whether the file is known original, virtual, previously modified or recovered from another source.
Ready to open the job?
Upload the untouched file and identification through the professional portal.
Frequently asked questions
Why must I keep an untouched original?
It is the recovery point and reference used to verify software identity and compare changes.
Is a virtual read the same as a physical ECU read?
No. A virtual read is retrieved from an identified server reference. State the method so the calibrator knows the source.
Should I clear DTCs before reading?
Record exact DTCs and diagnostic context before clearing. Repair faults that could affect calibration or validation.