Diagnostic Tools You Can Use with Your Smartphone
5 min read
It’s no secret that smartphone capabilities have grown by leaps and bounds. But your phone’s capabilities can reach a new level when teamed with smart tools from TOPDON. These tools work with TOPDON apps to deliver seamless integration with your phone that will allow you to test a questionable battery, investigate a cold spot in the house, track down a check engine light, and many other functions.
Even better, these compact tools are easy to pack in your truck’s glovebox or console for everyday access, and some will easily fit in your pocket to supplement your daily carry items. It’s like having a complete toolbox at your fingertips without the bulk and clutter.
Your Phone's Hottest Upgrade: Thermal Imaging
Thermal cameras have hundreds of uses. Whether you are tackling automotive repair, HVAC diagnosis, electrical work, or outdoor activities, a TOPDON thermal camera can detect leaks, hot spots, mechanical fatigue, and hidden wildlife and pets. They operate across a wide temperature range, making troubleshooting much easier.
The TC001 Mini is TOPDON’s newest thermal imaging camera for iOS and Android USB-C devices. This pocket-size plug-in thermal camera weighs a mere 1.1 oz for easy portability, with no battery to charge and no separate power source to carry. Its 96 × 96 IR sensor is enhanced to 384 × 384 resolution thanks to TOPDON’s patented Thermal Image Super Resolution (TISR) technology.
The TC001 Mini is compatible with the TopInfrared app and TopView PC software, allowing you to inspect on your mobile device and analyze on your Windows PC. When you need help interpreting what you see, TopFix AI can analyze the thermal image and suggest possible causes and next steps. The TC001 Mini packs a lot of features into a thermal camera at a price that both DIYers and professionals will appreciate.
Not sure which thermal camera best suits your needs? Check out our guide to selecting the right TOPDON thermal imager.
For even more capability, the TC002 Duo professional-grade thermal camera provides 256 x 192 thermal images that can be enhanced to 512 x 384 super high resolution using TISR technology. This plug-and-play camera seamlessly connects to USB-C iPhones, Android devices, and even Windows computers without adapters. The smart TopInfrared App allows real-time temperature monitoring, a high/low temperature alarm, and has a rotatable design. Choose from 10 color palettes or customize your own.
Besides being a great workplace companion, the TC002 Duo is a useful resource to have when camping or engaging in other nighttime activities where it helps to see what’s luring in the shadows.
“I've been doing home inspections for over 30 years and have a lot of tools in my toolbox,” reported Mark R. in his review on TOPDON’s website. “This is one of the best!”
Put Vehicle Diagnostics on Speed Dial
Trouble codes and service reminders can pop up on your instrument panel when you least expect it. You won’t be caught unprepared when you’re packing one of the three versions of the TopScan (Lite, Pro, and Master). The TopScan is a pocket-sized tool that plugs into the OBD2 port and turns any smartphone into a full-function scan tool for over 120 global vehicle makes.
TopScan gives you two-way communication with your car. With Bluetooth 5.0, TopScan scans wirelessly from up to 33 feet away. You can execute all 10 modes of OBD2 testing, read and clear fault codes, perform quick smog status checks, log system status, test volumetric efficiency, and create professional reports.
The TopScan is an easy companion to carry in your vehicle. It connects to your phone or tablet with the TopScan App (Android) and TopGuru App (iOS), and includes one year of updates. Paired with your phone, the TopScan delivers professional-level capabilities at an everyman price. A portable scanner can also be helpful when shopping for a used vehicle. Check out our used-car buying tips to learn what to look for before making a purchase.
Get Amped Up for Smartphone Battery Testing
The vast majority of modern vehicle rely on 12V batteries, including cars, light trucks, RVs, motorcycles, ATVs and boats. Whether you are maintaining your own small fleet or just want to be prepared to help friends and family in a pinch, a portable, compact battery tester is a valuable resource.
Most battery testers are on the bulky side, designed for shop use. But TOPDON’s BTMobile ProS battery analyzer works with the BatteryLab app on smartphones so you can test 12V batteries on the go without a scan tool. With this tool, you can test battery health, perform cranking, charging, and system tests, and maintain a battery library. The built-in Ultra Safe function protects against short circuits, reverse polarity, and over-voltage when testing.
Besides compatibility with smartphones, the BTMobile ProS works with TOPDON Phoenix professional scan tools as well as the UltraDiag and ArtiDiag900Lite.
It comes with a carry case for easy storage in your truck’s console or car trunk. Small on the outside but strong inside, the BTMobile ProS is a major upgrade of your phone’s capabilities.
Your Phone's Potential Is Calling
Smartphones are a part of everyday life, and TOPDON tools can act as a force multiplier for your phone’s capabilities. There’s something very satisfying about being able to pair a phone with a selection of plug-and-play or Bluetooth tools and have the functional equivalent of a technician’s toolbox at your disposal. Looking to streamline your life? Consider maximizing your phone with connected tools and get used to traveling light.