For automotive workshops specializing in Mercedes-Benz vehicles, staying updated with the latest software is crucial for efficient diagnostics and repairs. The Mercedes Xentry Update Service is designed to provide your technicians with seamless access to the most current ECU software, flash software, and release updates for your diagnostic systems. This ensures your workshop is always equipped with the tools needed to service modern Mercedes-Benz vehicles effectively.
Mercedes-Benz AG centrally provides these essential updates online, offering two primary options for accessing the XENTRY Update Service:
- XENTRY Update Service with Retail Data Storage (RDS): Recommended for workshops prioritizing speed and efficiency.
- XENTRY Update Service without Retail Data Storage: A more basic option for smaller operations.
The increasing complexity of vehicle control units and the growing volume of software data necessitate robust update solutions. To address these demands, the Retail Data Storage (RDS) system has been developed to optimize download times and data distribution within your workshop.
Unleashing the Power of Retail Data Storage 2 for Rapid Mercedes XENTRY Updates
The latest iteration, Retail Data Storage 2, is engineered to handle the ever-expanding data requirements of modern Mercedes-Benz diagnostics. Equipped with a high-capacity 18-terabyte hard drive and boasting twice the data transfer speed of its predecessor, RDS 2 ensures that even the largest updates are managed efficiently.
Retail Data Storage 2 – Technical Highlights:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Device | Barebone, including mainboard, power adapter, rear panel, and advanced cooling |
| Operating System | Ubuntu Linux LTS (latest version for stability and security) |
| Processor | Intel Xeon E-2314 4 Core 2.8GHz 8MB (powerful processing for data handling) |
| Memory | 16GB DDR4 3200 ECC UDIMM (ensures data integrity and smooth operation) |
| Hard Drive | 18 TB HDD SATA3 – Enterprise quality (reliable and high-capacity storage) |
| LAN Ports | 2 x RJ 45 Ports (Dual Port Intel® X710-AT2 Gigabit 10G LAN Controller) |
Effortless Updates for Maximized Workshop Productivity
Regular Mercedes XENTRY updates are vital for maintaining peak diagnostic performance. The XENTRY Update Service, especially when paired with RDS, streamlines this process significantly. Depending on your configuration, new release updates and add-ons are automatically downloaded to your Retail Data Storage within 48 hours of publication. From there, updates are swiftly distributed to your connected XENTRY diagnostic devices – a fully automated process minimizing downtime and technician intervention.
This automated background update system drastically reduces the time spent on manual updates. Installation time per device is cut down to approximately five minutes, freeing up valuable technician time and boosting overall workshop efficiency.
Optimize Your Workflow with Flexible Update Scheduling
The XENTRY Update Service offers customization to fit your workshop’s operational rhythm. You can define specific download times, scheduling updates to occur overnight or outside of peak hours. This ensures that updates do not interrupt diagnostic work during the day, minimizing waiting times and maximizing the utilization of your diagnostic systems.
Furthermore, for workshops with multiple diagnostic systems, the Retail Data Storage eliminates redundant downloads. Software and updates are downloaded only once to the RDS and then efficiently distributed across your networked devices. This centralized approach conserves internet bandwidth and reduces update times across your entire workshop.
XENTRY Update Service Without Retail Data Storage: When is it Suitable?
While the Retail Data Storage offers significant advantages, the Mercedes XENTRY Update Service can also function without it. However, this approach comes with notable drawbacks:
- Redundant Data Downloads: Each diagnostic device must independently download updates, increasing internet usage.
- High Internet Bandwidth Demand: Multiple simultaneous downloads can strain your internet connection.
- Increased Waiting Times: Download times are device-dependent and can lead to delays in workshop operations.
Therefore, the “XENTRY Update Service without Retail Data Storage” is only recommended for workshops with a limited number of diagnostic systems (1-2) and infrequent diagnostic usage. For most professional workshops, the efficiency gains offered by the Retail Data Storage are highly beneficial.
Initial Setup and Training Resources
To ensure a smooth transition and optimal utilization of the Mercedes XENTRY Update Service and Retail Data Storage, Mercedes-Benz provides comprehensive resources for initial setup and ongoing operation.
User Guide XENTRY Update Service and Retail Data Storage
HelpCard Retail Data Storage 2
These guides offer step-by-step instructions and valuable insights into maximizing the benefits of your XENTRY update system.
Essential Technical Requirements for Seamless XENTRY Updates
To guarantee optimal performance of your Mercedes XENTRY Update Service, particularly with Retail Data Storage, meeting specific technical requirements is crucial.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Internet Connection | Minimum 100 Mbit/s (lower bandwidths may increase download times), maximum latency of 60 ms. |
| Activation Domains & Ports | Domains: *.mercedes-benz.com, *.corpinter.net, *.tbinter.net, *.akamaihd.net Ports: 80 (http), 443 (https) |
| XENTRY Diagnosis Kit | For XENTRY Diagnosis Pad/Pad 2 systems, ensure connectivity to Retail Data Storage via Ports: 80 (http), 443 (https), 9000 (http), 7001 (tcp), 7002 (tcp). Proxy servers must support HTTP 1.1 with range requests. |
| Firewall Configuration | Enable domains and ports for XENTRY Portal, XENTRY Diagnosis Pad, and Retail Data Storage. Failure to enable all domains may limit support due to inability to transmit support packages. SSL connection breaking is prohibited, as it will disrupt online services including the XENTRY Update Service. Note: IP address/range activation is not recommended due to CDN usage. |
Adhering to these technical specifications ensures reliable and efficient Mercedes XENTRY updates and access to full support services.
Retail Data Storage 2: Purchase, Service Extension, and End-of-Life
The purchase of Retail Data Storage 2 includes the XENTRY Update Service for an initial 42-month period from the activation date. Prior to the expiration of this period, customers will receive an email notification regarding the service end date.
To continue utilizing the data supply via the XENTRY Update Service with Retail Data Storage, customers have the option to:
- Purchase a 12-month extension of the XENTRY Update Service.
- Acquire a new Retail Data Storage unit.
The activation date of your XENTRY Update Service can be conveniently checked within the XENTRY Update Service Control Center (accessible via Retail Data Storage) under the Monitoring or Administration areas, specifically in the “About the Device” tab.
As Retail Data Storage 2 is a purchased product, there are no return requirements at the end of its operational life. Disposal should be carried out in accordance with local legal regulations for electronic waste.
Accelerating Control Unit Programming with the USB to LAN Adapter
Recognizing the increasing size of control unit software with newer Mercedes-Benz models, workshops can now leverage the USB to LAN Adapter to significantly expedite control unit programming. While traditional OBD data transfer is limited to 100 Mbit/s, the USB to LAN Adapter facilitates data transfer at up to 300 Mbit/s.
As illustrated in the diagram, programming via OBD (left path) handles both control and software transfer through the XENTRY Diagnosis device, VCI, and OBD connection. In contrast, USB to LAN Adapter programming (right path) maintains programming control via OBD but offloads software transfer directly from the Retail Data Storage to the vehicle’s control unit via a wired LAN connection and the USB to LAN Adapter plugged into the vehicle’s USB-C port.
Advantages of USB to LAN Adapter Programming:
- 3x Faster Data Transfer: Achieve speeds up to 300 Mbit/s compared to 100 Mbit/s via OBD, drastically reducing programming times.
- Stable Wired Connection: Ensures a reliable and uninterrupted data transfer from the Retail Data Storage to the vehicle.
USB to LAN Adapter: Key Requirements and Delivery
To fully utilize the USB to LAN Adapter’s high-speed capabilities, your workshop network must meet certain prerequisites:
- Retail Data Storage Proximity: The RDS must be on the same network as the USB to LAN adapter and XENTRY diagnostic device.
- Subnet Recommendation: Ideally, the USB to LAN adapter and RDS should be in the same subnet (Class-C) for optimal performance, especially with older head unit software.
- High-Quality LAN Cable: Use at least Cat5e LAN cable (1 Gbit/s, 100 MHz). Cat5 is insufficient.
- Up-to-Date Software & Hardware: Ensure your XENTRY Diagnosis software, VCI firmware are current.
- Compatible Models & Control Units: Currently compatible with model series 214 (E-Class) and 236 (CLE-Class) head units. More models will be supported in the future.
- Standard OBD Connection Maintained: OBD connection via VCI remains necessary for programming control, even when using USB to LAN for data transfer.
The USB to LAN Adapter can be ordered through your country representative. The delivery package includes the USB to LAN Adapter and a 10-meter Cat5e LAN cable.
Helpful Resources for USB to LAN Adapter Integration
Detailed instructions for setting up and using the USB to LAN Adapter are available in these helpful documents:
USB to LAN Adapter HelpCard (PDF)
USB to LAN Adapter User Guide (PDF)
XENTRY Update Service and Retail Data Storage Support
For any queries or assistance regarding the Mercedes XENTRY Update Service or Retail Data Storage, you can find answers in the comprehensive FAQs section. If you require further support, you can submit a ticket through the help section of the XENTRY Portal.
By embracing the Mercedes XENTRY Update Service and its associated technologies like Retail Data Storage and the USB to LAN Adapter, your workshop can ensure efficient, rapid, and reliable diagnostic and programming capabilities for Mercedes-Benz vehicles, ultimately enhancing your service quality and customer satisfaction.
