Service Information
VAS Tester

Number: AVT-14-01

Subject: VAS 6160A Diagnostic Tablet - Unpacking and Setup
Instructions

Date: Jan. 03, 2014

Supersedes AVT-13-21 due to additional information.
Table of Contents
Section

Page

1.0

Additional Documentation

1

2.0

Safety Instructions

2

3.0

Important Information

4

4.0

Unpacking Instructions

5

5.0

Contents of Carton

6

6.0

Install Rechargeable Battery Pack

6

7.0

Connecting to Power

7

8.0

Initial Start and Windows Setup

8

9.0

Network Configuration and Netviewer

10

10.0

Install Offboard Diagnostic Information System Service (ODIS Service)

12

11.0

VAS 5054A Transmitter Head Setup

13

12.0

Warranty Registration

14

13.0

Malfunctions and Support

15

®

1.0 – Additional Documentation
These unpacking and setup instructions contain references to Service Information (SI) documents with
additional instructions needed before placing the tablet into service. These documents are all posted on
ServiceNet.
Locate and print the following documents to have on hand before proceeding with these instructions. Use
the ServiceNet “Search” function to obtain the latest versions:
SI Doc. Category

Document Titles

VAS Diagnostic Device Computer Name Builder
VAS Tester

VAS 5054A Transmitter Head Bluetooth & EDIC Configuration – ODIS Service Only
VAS 5054A Transmitter Head USB Configuration – ODIS Service Only
ODIS Service Installation Phase 1 - Preparation and License Request Instructions (eShop)

ODIS Service

ODIS Service Installation Phase 2 - Software Installation & Configuration Instructions
ODIS Service Installation Phase 3 - Security Certificate Request & Installation Instructions
Page 1 of 15

© 2014 Audi of America, Inc.
All rights reserved. Information contained in this document is based on the latest information available at the time of printing and is subject to the copyright and other intellectual
property rights of Audi of America, Inc., its affiliated companies and its licensors. All rights are reserved to make changes at any time without notice. No part of this document may
be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, nor may these materials be
modified or reposted to other sites, without the prior expressed written permission of the publisher.

Service Information
2.0 – Safety Instructions
2.1 – Explanation of Symbols
Symbols with the following meanings are used in the safety instructions of the Operating Manuals, the
startup/unpacking instructions and other documentation provided, in screen displays on the tester during
operation and on the products themselves:

Warning!

Text with this symbol contains information regarding your safety and how you
can reduce the risk of serious or fatal injuries. The Warning symbol deserves
special attention with respect to your safety.

Caution!

Text with this symbol contains information on how you can prevent damage to
the vehicle and to the device. The Caution symbol informs you that failure to
comply with such information can result in damage to the vehicle and/or tester,
e.g.: ensure touch screen is not touched with sharp objects.

Note

Text with this symbol contains additional, useful information. The Note symbol
indicates important information on the product, its use and other items.

2.2 – Reference to Additional Safety Instructions
The following contains the general safety instructions that apply to all VAS diagnostic console, tablet and
laptop devices. Additional safety instructions can be found in the applicable device Operating Manuals. It is
thus important to read the device Operating Manual prior to use. Safety instructions may also appear on
the screen of the tester and displayed by the diagnostic software. Heed all instructions displayed.

2.3 – Important Safety Instructions

Warning!
1. Read all instructions.
2. If the power cable or unit is damaged, the equipment may be not used until inspected by a
qualified technician.
3. Do not allow any cables or leads to drape over the edges of tables, benches or stands.
Prevent hot parts or rotating fans from coming into contact with cables or leads.
4. Use of an extension cable is prohibited. When performing tests, only the specified cables
and leads may be used.
5. Always unplug the equipment when it is not in use. Never unplug the power cable from
the outlet by pulling on the cable. Grasp the connector to disconnect the equipment from
the power outlet.
6. The tester may not be used in the vicinity of open fuel containers, as there is otherwise
the risk of fire or explosion.
7. When you are working on internal combustion engines, ensure adequate ventilation.
Otherwise, there is a risk of poisoning.
Continued …3/

Page 2 of 15
© 2014 Audi of America, Inc.
All rights reserved. Information contained in this document is based on the latest information available at the time of printing and is subject to the copyright and other intellectual
property rights of Audi of America, Inc., its affiliated companies and its licensors. All rights are reserved to make changes at any time without notice. No part of this document may
be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, nor may these materials be
modified or reposted to other sites, without the prior expressed written permission of the publisher.

Service Information
Warning!
8. Use the equipment only in the manner described. Use only the accessories listed by the
manufacturer.
9. Risk of explosion. The equipment has spark-generating components inside and for this
reason must not be used in areas with flammable vapors. The equipment should be
operated at a height of at least 460 mm (18 inches) above the floor, since gasoline and
other possible vapors collect at floor level.
10. The equipment complies with Safety Class 1 when under power and is equipped with a
safety tested power cable. Connect the equipment only to electrical service or power
outlets with a grounded protective conductor (TN network).
11. Fasten the diagnosis laptop securely to the rear seat of the vehicle during test drives. A
second person on the rear seat must operate the diagnosis laptop. For safety reasons,
operation on the front seat and without being fastened securely is prohibited (e.g. risk of
triggering the airbag).
12. Electric ignition systems have voltages of up to approx. 30 kV. General Safety guidelines
for workshops are to be observed at all times.
13. Opening of the tester, including its accessories, by unauthorized personnel can result in
serious risk to the individual and the equipment.
14. If the power cable, a diagnostic or measuring cable, the tester or any other accessory
under power is damaged, their use is prohibited until a qualified technician has given
approval to do so.
15. If you will not be using the equipment for a longer period of time, please switch it off at the
on/off switch and disconnect it from the power if the rechargeable battery is charged.
Switching off at the on/off switch alone does not ensure that the power supply, charging
circuit or any connected accessory has been disconnected from power.
16. Data transmission lines should not be connected or disconnected during a thunderstorm
nor should
the equipment
itself be operated.
2.4 – Safety
Instructions
for Wireless
Units

Warning!
1. No antenna modifications, e.g. relocation or use of other antennas or transmitters, are
permitted on units approved for wireless operation.
2. Do not use a portable transmitter (e.g. wireless network (WLAN) or Bluetooth device) in
the vicinity of unshielded detonator caps or in an explosive atmosphere, unless the device
has been modified in a way that permits such use.
3. Information regarding Bluetooth and W-LAN approval in various countries may be found in
the diagnostic software operating manual.

Continued …4/

Page 3 of 15
© 2014 Audi of America, Inc.
All rights reserved. Information contained in this document is based on the latest information available at the time of printing and is subject to the copyright and other intellectual
property rights of Audi of America, Inc., its affiliated companies and its licensors. All rights are reserved to make changes at any time without notice. No part of this document may
be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, nor may these materials be
modified or reposted to other sites, without the prior expressed written permission of the publisher.

Service Information
Caution!
1. Line voltage fluctuations and deviations exceeding the permissible tolerance can result in
malfunction and damage to the diagnostic device.
2. When operating the VAS 6160A in a workshop cart, ensure that the power adapter has
adequate ventilation. Remember that the charging circuit is operating even when the tester is
switched off. This is also true in the power saving mode.
3. When connecting other make vehicles:
• The VAS 6160A diagnostic laptop was developed and specified for vehicles manufactured
by the Volkswagen Group. Connecting the tester or remote diagnosis head interface
directly to a vehicle from another manufacturer, may cause damage to the vehicle’s
electrical system.
• If attempting to use the generally applicable OBD functions for self-diagnosis of other
make vehicles, the OBD adapter cable VAS 5052/16 should be connected between the
diagnostic head and diagnosis connection in the vehicle.
4. When handling the rechargeable battery:
• The rechargeable battery should be replaced only by properly trained personnel.
• Never short-circuit the rechargeable battery.
• Never throw the rechargeable battery into a fire.
• Dispose of/recycle the rechargeable battery only when discharged and in accordance with
local regulations.

PLEASE PRINT THIS MANUAL AND KEEP IT IN A SAFE PLACE!
3.0 – Important Information
3.1 – Shipping Damage / Incomplete Shipment
Please check the following items when unpacking/starting your VAS 6160A:
1. Packaging damaged:
• Have the damage confirmed in writing on the shipping documents by the delivery service and
report it immediately.
2. Packaging in good condition, but contents damaged:
• Report damage to Snap-on immediately.
3. Incomplete shipment:
• Please check the contents list as per instructions in Section 5.0 – Contents of Carton to
determine whether your shipment is complete. Report issues to Snap-on immediately.

Continued …5/
Page 4 of 15
© 2014 Audi of America, Inc.
All rights reserved. Information contained in this document is based on the latest information available at the time of printing and is subject to the copyright and other intellectual
property rights of Audi of America, Inc., its affiliated companies and its licensors. All rights are reserved to make changes at any time without notice. No part of this document may
be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, nor may these materials be
modified or reposted to other sites, without the prior expressed written permission of the publisher.

Service Information
3.2 – Temperature Equalization

Caution!
If the VAS 6160A is delivered during winter months, efforts must be made to prevent the formation
of condensation within the device. For this reason we recommend the device be left unattended at
room temperature for approximately 3 hours prior to connecting/switching on for temperature
compensation purposes.

3.3 – Safety and Startup Instructions
Please read the safety and startup instructions carefully prior to startup.

3.4 – Purchase Documentation
Please retain your shipping documents as proof of purchase and delivery.

3.5 – Additional Instructions

Note
•

These unpacking and setup instructions include cross-references to other Service
Information documents with additional instructions needed prior to placing the laptop into
service. These additional documents are all posted on ServiceNet.

•

If you have not already done so, be prepared to locate the cross-referenced documents!

•

Print the documents if necessary and perform the necessary instruction steps before
continuing with any remaining instructions in this document.

•

As of the publication date of this document, new VAS 6160A are shipped with either
Windows® XP or Windows 7 operating systems. Heed the instructions that are applicable to
the installed system.

4.0 – Unpacking Instructions
The VAS 6160A is delivered with the tablet unit and docking station (port replicator) packed separately in
the main shipping box.
1. Unpack all parts; then remove the protective film from the tablet and the docking station (port
replicator).
2. Dispose of the packaging material in accordance with local regulations.
3. Check the contents for completeness as instructed in Section 5.0 - Contents of Carton.
4. In case of incomplete shipment, report the issue immediately to Snap-on (SBS).

Continued …6/
Page 5 of 15
© 2014 Audi of America, Inc.
All rights reserved. Information contained in this document is based on the latest information available at the time of printing and is subject to the copyright and other intellectual
property rights of Audi of America, Inc., its affiliated companies and its licensors. All rights are reserved to make changes at any time without notice. No part of this document may
be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, nor may these materials be
modified or reposted to other sites, without the prior expressed written permission of the publisher.

Service Information
5.0 – Contents of Carton
Confirm your VAS 6160A shipment contains the following items (check the boxes provided):

 1. VAS 6160A
 2. Docking Station with CD/DVD drive
 3. A/C Power Adapter/cables
 4. VAS 5054A Transmitter Head
 5. VAS 5054A USB Cable (“Rugged

1

3

USB 2.0”)

 6. Stylus
 Rechargeable Battery*
 Operating Manuals for Panasonic CF-D1

5

series tablet and docking station*

2

6

4

*Not shown