Rennacs Code Reader For Handhelds

When it comes to PC and handheld scanners, the CodeReader Handheld System by Rennacs deserves a good look. This system utilizes the uniqueness of the Handspring Visor which is powered by the Palm operating system. This match up is extremely easy to use, accurate and affordable. The same care that was given in the CodeReader for PC by Rennacs, is obvious in this handheld version. There were several things that I really liked about this system and I will cover those as the review goes along. I want to get started by showing what the system consists of and then we will put it to the test.

One of the components included in the handheld version is the Printer Port Module above.The Printer Port Module provides the connection from the handheld to the CodeReader optical sensor and it will also allow you to connect your printer directly to the handheld. This is a nice feature as you will not have to download a file to a pc and then print the file. You simply connect your printer cable to the Printer Port Module and print out the test reports directly from the Visor.

Another item included with the Code Reader Handheld system is the CodeReader Back Up Module. The Back Up Module is pre-programmed by Rennacs with your specific garage details and stores the CodeReader files in flash memory. It also allows you to "backup" your saved CodeReader test files for future reference.

Installing the CodeReader Handheld hardware is as easy as sliding the Printer Port Module into the slot of the Handspring Visor. Once the Printer Port Module is installed, connect the sensor cable to the Printer Port Module.
Also, are you ready? The Handspring Visor IS INCLUDED with the CodeReader for Handheld package!! NICE!! One thing I want to note, the Visor shown on my review was my own personal Visor. Since I already had one, there was no need for Rennacs to send one to me with the review kit. The Visor that is included with the system may be a different color. The one that I have is called "Ice".. but it also comes in black, etc.

There are several software choices to choose from and purchase to suit your particular needs. For a list of available software for the Handheld system, click here. For a list of supported vehicles, click here. To upgrade your CodeReader Handheld system, a serial or USB Handspring cradle is required for a PC connection. The upgrade is a free download on the Rennacs website. For a list of available downloads, click here. Rennacs also has a free demo of both systems, the CodeReader for PC and the CodeReader for Handheld. The demo's are also located on the Download page.

With the software installed, you will see the Rennacs icons for the various systems. Our test vehicle, the same vehicle I tested in the CodeReader for PC review, is a 1992 Honda Civic. The Check Engine light is on and the customer has noticed that the car has a hesitation that started the same time the Check Engine light came on. We select the Asian-EFI icon on the Visor.

Throughout the instructions, you will see a movie icon. If you click the icon, an animation of the procedure will be played. I took a couple of pictures of the animation while it played on the Visor, as shown below.
I was VERY IMPRESSED with the detail of the instructions and the unique animation feature. It was obvious to me that alot of care and thought went into the design of this system. VERY WELL DONE!!

Above shows how to setup the vehicle for the diagnostic mode. All of the information needed, including the connector location and terminal description is provided in the CodeReader for Handheld system. Even the jumper required to jump the two terminals on the plug is included. The connector location was right on target. There was even additional locations provided depending on what year and body style the Honda would be. The first location listed, above the kick panel on the passenger side footwell, was the correct location.

I always start with a visual inspection, and upon inspection it was obvious to me that the throttle switch connector was partially unplugged. I disconnected the connector to inspect the terminals for damage or corrosion. The terminals looked fine so the repair was as simple as reconnecting the connector to the throttle switch. Mounted close to the throttle switch is the fuel filter, and I could tell that it had been recently replaced. After talking to the vehicle owner, it turned out that the Check Engine had came on shortly after the fuel filter was replaced. It looks like when the fuel filter was replaced, the throttle switch connector was either disturbed or disconnected and that caused the Check Engine light to illuminate.

During the Fault Code test, Fault Code #7 has been set. The Code #7 is explained in the CodeReader system to be a problem with the throttle valve switch or circuit/shift position switch or circuit. After the test is complete, the screen to the right shows us that the Code #7 is the only Code that is in the engine computer.

On the Fault Code Screen, we have a series of buttons to choose from. You can select the Print &Save button, and the screen with the vehicle and customer information will display. You can enter the information, connect a printer and print the report. Or you can select save the report to view it again later.

DESIGN.....................................................................EXCELLENT!! Very well made with attention to detail.
EASE OF USE.........................................................SIMPLE to connect and use. Impressive help
                                                                                     information including very well done animation.
UPGRADE ABILITY................................................FREE on the manufactures site, downloads.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS......................... A PC with an internet connection to go online at the
                                                                                     Rennacs website for the update downloads.

OVERALL PRODUCT VALUE.............................EXCELLENT!! The same great features as the
                                                                                     CodeReader for PC in a small package!! VERY NICE!!
WHERE TO PURCHASE......................................The manufactures website has the purchase
                                                                                    information right here, sales
SUPPORT................................................................EXCELLENT!! For online support or FAQ's, click here.

In closing, I would like to thank the folks at Rennacs for allowing me to review the CodeReader systems. I was very impressed with every aspect of both systems and with the friendly and professional support, sales and technical staff there. You should all be very proud of what you have accomplished. I would highly recommend these systems to anyone. A special thanks to Glenn for being patient with me!! Glenn, I know it has taken me awhile to complete the reviews on your products and I just want you to know that I really appreciate your companies patience with me. It has been great talking with you!!
Bruce Bonebrake

I want to thank you for taking the time to read my review!! I know there were alot of images, and the page load time may have been slow, but I hope you enjoyed reading this review, and as always, your comments mean ALOT to us!! Your feedback is GREATLY appreciated!! Please email your comments to: