Since 2006, rumor has it that gm tech ii scan tool will be replaced by GM MDI (Multiple Diagnostic Interface), a new piece of equipment coming out to work alongside the Tech 2, but today we still can find Tech 2 in GM forums, where drivers are hesitate between MDI and Tech2. Here I will analyze the difference between the two tools and reveal the reason why Tech2 is not be replaced.
GM MDI is a diagnostic and programming device. Apart from diagnosing 1990 to 2013 GM, Opel, Chevrolet and Saab, it also supports TIS2Web, GM Global Diagnostics System (GDS), SPS and MDI Manager Software, European Chevrolet offline programming, SPS programming on existing and future SGM vehicles, and will be able to do remote programming with the Tech 2 for all 2007 and previous vehicles in the near future. Using the GM MDI for programming can free up your Tech 2 for diagnostics and other tasks.GM Tech 2 mainly supports diagnosing; with TIS 2000 CD in the package, it can also do programming. But it cannot program as many systems as GDI.
GM MDI Scan tool works with a PC. It takes advantage of all those new PCs installed in the service bays under the Multiple PC Initiative and is able to communicate with a laptop via both USB and WiFi so that users can put MDI in a vehicle in the parking lot and communicate with it my PC.Tech2 is a hand held device and communicates vehicles via USB cable, no additional PC is needed. It is very easy to carry and use.
The GM MDI offers faster programming speed at a lower cost. Depending on vehicle architecture (protocols/modules), the GM MDI can be 20-70% faster than the Tech 2. This helps alleviate vehicle battery drain problems during programming.