Summary
Computer databases provide information on procedures, parts and service problems. The objective of this procedure is to show you how to learn the basics of a workshop computer system.
Part 1. Preparation and safety
Objective
- Learn the basics of a workshop computer system.
Personal safety
Whenever you perform a task in the workshop you must use personal protective clothing and equipment that is appropriate for the task and which conforms to your local safety regulations and policies. Among other items, this may include:
- Work clothing - such as coveralls and steel-capped footwear
- Eye protection - such as safety glasses and face masks
- Ear protection - such as earmuffs and earplugs
- Hand protection - such as rubber gloves and barrier cream
- Respiratory equipment - such as face masks and valved respirators
If you are not certain what is appropriate or required, ask your supervisor.
Safety check
- Make sure that you understand and observe all legislative and personal safety procedures when carrying out the following tasks. If you are unsure of what these are, ask your supervisor.
Points to note
- Not all service departments have or use a computerized system. If your service department does not have a computer, you'll have to use printed reference materials.
- Computer databases provide information on procedures, parts and service problems. Find out what databases your workplace has on file and how to access them.
- Computers have the ability to easily access updated information using the Internet, an intranet or CD-ROMs.
- Many computerized manuals contain helpful tips on how to access data quickly.
- Most vehicle manufacturers have a service or technical web page. If you work in an automotive dealership, or your company subscribes to a dealer network information system, you may be able to find the information you are looking for through the dealer's intranet.
Part 2: Step-by-step instruction
- Choose the correct application
In order to be able to provide accurate information, the software application used must contain the appropriate data. There is a range of automotive data-base software applications on the market, the layout may vary, but they all contain similar information, though some are more detailed than others. Alternatively, if you work at a dealership or your shop subscribes to a dealer network information system, you may use that process. First, you should understand how to operate the computer.
- Start the system
In the PC world, starting up is often known as “booting” the computer, which means, “Turn the computer on and log in, if you are required to”. This step will depend on the type of PC you are using and whether it is “stand alone”, on a local network, or needs to be connected to the Internet to operate the software. The way that you do this depends on your work situation, so it’s a good idea to get a fellow worker to show you how to log on in your particular workplace environment
- Understand the software application
Read the information on the software package. If you’re on the internet, read the information about the software application or website. Most of the applications have “Help” sections, which provide details of how to access the various components within the software itself. The details on the package will also tell you how to install or access the data. Once you have become familiar with the operating functions of the software you are ready to start accessing data. You have a vehicle in for service, and you’ve found a problem with the brake pads. You want to obtain any updated service information that can solve the problem.
- Access the software application
Start by ensuring that the software package you are going to use is correctly loaded onto the PC. Use the Computer to see if there is a Technical Bulletin posted for this problem.
- Provide input information
To enable the computer to search for the correct data, you may have to input vehicle information such as the VIN Number or at least the make model and year of manufacture. The application will usually ask you to confirm your input data. Here we have selected a “1985 Chevrolet Corvette”. If correct, we can now select more specific information.
- Narrow the search
Now you can perform a search on a specific section of the vehicle using a keyword. The program will normally then provide a list of results from which you can select a particular item. If the software has the capability, you may want to see if there is a manufacturer’s Recall Notice on the vehicle or any of its components.
- Access specific data
Finally, specific data for this item is displayed. In this case it tells us that there has been a part modification on the brake pads and that replacements are available with the part number provided. Once you have located the data you need, you can usually print it out. This is very useful to keep on a clipboard for reference when working on the vehicle.
