GM has recently released the latest Dealer Infrastructure Guidelines (DIG) for 2021. The guidelines outline the dealership technology needed to ensure reliable data communications for all dealers, including recommended personal computer (PC) specifications. (Fig. 7)
Fig. 7
Web Browser Recommendations
GM is working toward making all applications function in Microsoft Edge as the shift away from Internet Explorer continues. Currently, Microsoft continues to support Internet Explorer 11 as a web browser for the duration of Windows 10. At some point, Microsoft Edge will be the primary browser.
Upgrading PCs
The DIG covers the equipment that is supported (Fig. 8) as well as the difference between Consumer vs. Enterprise products. GM’s robust applications require Enterprise-grade products.
Fig. 8
All dealership computers must meet the minimum standard, including using the Windows 10 Professional OS, in order to receive assistance from the Techline Customer Support Center (TCSC).
Computers used in the service department for infotainment system programming are recommended to have a hard drive size of 500 GB or larger in order to handle the large calibration files.
PCs used by technicians in the service bay should not be simply upgraded with a new operating system unless the PC processor is 6th generation or better. The DIG provides “Best” specifications for replacing PCs. (Fig. 9)
Fig. 9
GMDESolutions is currently offering several Diagnostic Bundles and Laptops with special pricing (U.S.). Non-bundled PC’s meeting GM specifications also are available. In addition, new PC’s pre-loaded with GM’s Techline Connect diagnostic software are available to help save time and effort at the dealership.
Techline Application Recommendations
GM Techline service technician applications (Techline Connect, TIS2Web, GDS 2, MDI Manager, MDI/MDI 2, Tech2Win, Data Bus Diagnostics Tool and Service Information) require additional computing power to perform appropriately during vehicle diagnosis and repairs.
The following recommendations are for all service technician applications:
- Local Windows Administrative access for software installation and updates to Windows registry
- One laptop for each technician performing vehicle diagnostics; otherwise, one for every two technicians
- One MDI 2 for every Techline PC
- One battery maintainer for every two MDI tools in use
- Use of Tripp-Lite Keyspan USB-to-serial adapter (Model: USA – 19HS) for computers without serial ports
Local Admin Rights
All Techline application updates and installations must be performed from an account with local Windows administrative rights. Firewall exceptions should be made for TIS2Web and Techline Connect applications.
The DIG includes a list of how to configure Techline Connect to have the elevated privileges necessary to ensure the application updates are received, downloaded and installed properly.
View the Guidelines
U.S. dealerships: To view the latest DIG (Fig. 10) as well as PCs for purchase, go to gmdesolutions.com and select the Dealer Services tab. Once you’ve input your BAC and zip code, select Techline IT Solutions from the Dealer Services menu.
Canadian dealerships: The latest DIG can be found in the Dealer Security and Information Technology App on GM GlobalConnect.
Fig. 10
– Thanks to Lisa Scott
