As technology advances, older diagnostic tools are becoming less practical. With the phasing out of C4 in newer Xentry versions and the disappearance of LAN/Ethernet ports in modern laptops, a shift towards USB-connected Vehicle Communication Interfaces (VCIs) is inevitable. While workarounds like WLAN or USB-LAN converters exist for C4, they still rely on outdated technology. Having witnessed control unit failures due to unstable WLAN connections during flashing, a wired connection remains the preferred, reliable method for critical operations like Xentry Sd Connect Flash Pld procedures.
Modifying Xentry to prolong C4 usage might seem like a temporary fix, but for long-term efficiency and compatibility, embracing newer VCI technology is essential. When considering alternatives to the C4 for xentry sd connect flash pld and general diagnostics, several options emerge:
- New Mercedes VCI C6 (Bosch MTS6532 with Mercedes firmware)
- Used or Refurbished Mercedes VCI C6
- Cloned Mercedes VCI C6
- VXDIAG VCI C6 or SE
- J2534 Devices (Openport, Scanmatik 2 PRO, MDI)
- Super MB PRO M6
While various multiplexers are available, many are simply rebranded C4 clones or are being phased out in favor of VXDIAG or J2534 devices. My specific requirements for a replacement multiplexer were clear:
- Full compatibility with XDOS (Xentry Diagnostics Open Shell)
- Plug-and-play VCI operation without extra drivers or software
- Seamless administration within the Xentry system configurator using VCI Manager
These criteria led me to explore the VCI C6 clone. The genuine Mercedes VCI C6 is prohibitively expensive, often exceeding 3000 euros and difficult to procure in some regions. Used or refurbished units, while slightly more affordable (starting around 1600 euros), still represent a significant investment, often without warranty or return options. The VCI C6 clone, priced at approximately $450, presents a more financially manageable risk, despite the challenges of returns to China.
Why did I consciously avoid VXDIAG, Openport, and other alternatives for xentry sd connect flash pld tasks? Having prior experience with a VXDIAG kit, I found it not significantly cheaper and notably more cumbersome to use. Licensing issues, particularly the need for online license renewal, pose a considerable problem when working in areas with limited or no internet connectivity – a critical drawback when urgent diagnostic or flashing procedures are required. Furthermore, VXDIAG compatibility with Vediamo, a crucial tool for deeper diagnostics and modifications, remained elusive in my experience.
Low-cost systems bundled with Openport or similar J2534 devices are available, but these are designed for the PassThru version of Xentry. Preferring the comprehensive functionality of the XDOS version, J2534 devices were not a suitable option for my workflow. Similar considerations led me to exclude MDI or Scanmatik devices from my immediate choices for xentry sd connect flash pld operations within the full XDOS environment.
Despite this, I acknowledge the utility of other tools in specific contexts. For instance, I utilize an Opel MDI clone with GDSII on a dedicated laptop with internet access and MBTools installed. This setup allows me to leverage MBTools for certain Mercedes diagnostics, demonstrating the value of having diverse tools for varied situations. The Super MB PRO M6, while marketed as a different solution, ultimately resembled a C4 clone in my assessment. Past negative experiences with this brand deterred me from further investigation into their newer versions.
My practical experience with the VCI C6 clone over the past three months using Xentry OpenShell version 09.2023 has been overwhelmingly positive. Compared to the C4, the VCI C6 clone exhibits significantly enhanced speed and stability during diagnostic routines and, crucially, during xentry sd connect flash pld processes. The genuine VCI C6 typically includes a separate WLAN USB stick, which was not included with my clone. Administration is straightforward through the VCI Manager in Xentry, eliminating the need for separate drivers or software installations.
Initially, my VCI C6 clone required a firmware update provided remotely by the seller via TeamViewer to achieve stable operation. Since this initial update, the device has performed reliably. The package included a 3m USB cable and an OBD connection cable, sufficient for my current vehicle range. Cables for older 38-pin connectors or Sprinter models were not included, and the availability of adapters for older vehicles with the C6 clone remains unclear, although the genuine version is expected to support them.
Considering the near parity in price between the VCI C6 clone and the older C4, and given its superior performance and future-proof design, the VCI C6 clone is a compelling choice for users with similar diagnostic needs focused on efficient xentry sd connect flash pld capabilities and general Xentry functionality. Based on my experience, I can confidently recommend the VCI C6 clone as a viable and effective alternative. For further inquiries or comments, please feel free to reach out.
