Service Information
VAS Tester

Number: VVT-13-12

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

Date: July 15, 2013

Supersedes VVT-13-01 due to updated information

ATTENTION!
As of this document’s publication date, VAS 6160/A tablets are available with either:

VAS-PC (Base V19.01.01)
or

Offboard Diagnostic Information System Service (ODIS Service)
…diagnostic software types preinstalled.
•

Different configuration processes are required for each software type. These instructions
direct users to confirm their software type, and to follow the applicable installation and
configuration steps necessary.

•

These instructions contain numerous cross-references to other instruction documents
posted on ServiceNet. Use a dealership PC or laptop connected to a printer to access these
documents when instructed below.

Please read and understand these instructions in their entirety prior to proceeding!

Please print this document and retain for future reference
Contents
1.0 – Safety Instructions .......................................................................................................................... 2
2.0 – Important Information...................................................................................................................... 5
3.0 – Unpacking Instructions ................................................................................................................... 6
4.0 – Contents of Carton .......................................................................................................................... 6
5.0 – Install Rechargeable Battery Pack.................................................................................................. 7
6.0 – Connecting to Power ....................................................................................................................... 8
7.0 – Initial Start and Windows® Setup .................................................................................................... 8
8.0 – Network Configuration & Netviewer ..............................................................................................10
9.0 – Confirm, Install & Configure Diagnostic Software........................................................................11
10.0 – VAS 5054A Transmitter Head - Overview ....................................................................................19
11.0 – Configure and Confirm VAS 5054A Transmitter Head Operation ..............................................21
12.0 – Warranty Registration ..................................................................................................................22
13.0 – Malfunctions and Support ............................................................................................................22
Page 1 of 22

ver1.3

© 2013 Volkswagen Group 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 Volkswagen Group 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
1.0 – Safety Instructions
1.1 – 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.

1.2 – 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.

Continued …3/

Page 2 of 22
© 2013 Volkswagen Group 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 Volkswagen Group 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
1.3 – 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.
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 diagnostic tablet securely to the rear seat of the vehicle during test drives. A second
person on the rear seat must operate the diagnostic tablet. 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.

Page 3 of 22
© 2013 Volkswagen Group 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 Volkswagen Group 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
1.4 – 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
device Operating Manual and the VAS 5054A / VAS5055 information located in the
Administration function of the VAS-PC diagnostic software.

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 6160/A 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 6160/A diagnostic tablet 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.

Continued …5/
Page 4 of 22
© 2013 Volkswagen Group 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 Volkswagen Group 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 – Important Information
2.1 – Windows® Operating System Recovery

Note
DO NOT use the Panasonic – Windows® system CDs included with this shipment to
perform system recovery!
•

The Windows® operating system on VAS 6160/A is recovered from a partition on the hard
drive. If system recovery becomes necessary, refer to Service Information – VAS Tester
document title: VAS 6160/A Diagnostic Tablet - System Recovery Instructions

•

Using the Panasonic system CDs erases the device partitions and recovery data, and installs
a standard Windows 7® operating system. This prevents reinstallation of the diagnostic
software.

•

Please mark the Panasonic system CDs with an appropriate note (example: DO NOT USE!)
and set aside where they cannot be accessed by dealership service or IT personnel.

2.2 – Shipping Damage / Incomplete Shipment
Please check the following items when unpacking/starting your VAS 6160/A:
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 in writing immediately.
3. Incomplete shipment:
• Please check the contents list as per instructions in Section 4.0 to determine whether your
shipment is complete. Please report an incomplete shipment in writing immediately.

2.3 – Temperature Equalization

Caution!
If the VAS 6160/A 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.

2.4 – Safety and Startup Instructions
Please read the safety and startup instructions carefully prior to startup.
Continued …6/
Page 5 of 22
© 2013 Volkswagen Group 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 Volkswagen Group 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
2.5 – Purchase Documentation
Please retain your shipping documents as proof of purchase and delivery.

3.0 – Unpacking Instructions
The VAS 6160/A 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 4.0 - Contents of Carton.
4. In case of shipping damage or an incomplete shipment, proceed as described in Section 13.0 Malfunctions and Support.

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

 1. VAS 6160/A
(Panasonic CF-D1 series)

 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

6
4

2

series tablet and docking station*
*Not shown

Continued …7/
Page 6 of 22
© 2013 Volkswagen Group 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 Volkswagen Group 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 – Install Rechargeable Battery Pack
Caution!
When handling the rechargeable battery:
• The battery should be replaced only by properly trained personnel.
• Never short-circuit the battery.
• Never throw the battery into a fire.
• Dispose of/recycle the battery only when discharged and in accordance with local regulations.
The rechargeable battery pack may or may not be pre-installed. If not installed, remove battery from its
packaging and install as follows:
1. On the left-hand underside of the tablet, slide the battery compartment lock to the right and downward
as illustrated -arrows-, then open the battery compartment cover:

2. Slide the rechargeable battery pack into the compartment until it connects firmly with the contacts.

3. Close battery compartment cover and re-secure the lock.

Caution!
Ensure battery compartment cover is locked at all times. Otherwise, the battery pack may fall out
during use or transport.

Continued …8/
Page 7 of 22
© 2013 Volkswagen Group 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 Volkswagen Group 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
Note
For optimum battery performance and service life, please heed the battery charging and recalibration
instruction documents included with the Panasonic program suite. After 6160/A set up, locate the
documents as follows:
1. From the Windows desktop, go to Start > All Programs > Panasonic > Battery
2. Select Battery Recalibration or Important Tips

6.0 – Connecting to Power
The tablet is connected to power either via the docking station (port replicator) connection to the A/C
power adapter, directly via the A/C power adapter or run from the internal rechargeable battery pack.

Caution!
•
•
•

The A/C power adapter includes a country-specific power cable (UL-approved or CSA-approved,
oil-resistant power cord).
Operation on ungrounded or impedance-grounded electrical networks (IT electrical networks) is
prohibited.
Use only the original Panasonic CF-D1 power adapter. For additional information (part number
etc.), refer to the CF-D1 Operating Manual.

7.0 – Initial Start and Windows® Setup
7.1 - Preparation
The initial startup must be performed with the tablet removed from the docking station (port replicator)
and the wireless switch in the OFF position.
Additional information can be found in the Panasonic CF-D1 series Operating Manual.
1. On the upper left-hand side of the tablet, open the access cover marked “SC / EX”. If necessary, slide
the wireless operation switch to the OFF position -arrow-:

Page 8 of 22
© 2013 Volkswagen Group 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 Volkswagen Group 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. On the lower right-hand side of the tablet, open the cover for the DC IN 15.6V (adapter) port. Connect
the A/C power adapter cable to the DC adapter port -arrow- and a 115V A/C outlet:

7.2 – Interface Connections
For additional information on interface connections, refer to the Panasonic CF-D1 series and docking
station (port replicator) Operating Manuals.

7.3 – Switching the Unit On and Off
Switch on the tablet by pressing the on/off button on the front of the tablet for approximately 1 second. The
tablet boots up and the Windows user interface appears.

Caution!
•

When switching the tablet off after normal use, DO NOT press and hold the on/off button for
longer than 5 seconds! This executes a forced shutdown which may result in hard drive faults.

•

To switch off the tablet after normal use, always click “Start” from the Windows desktop and then
select “Turn Off Computer…” and then “Turn Off”.

7.4 – Windows® - Initial Setup
When the tablet starts for the first time, the initial Windows setup screens are displayed. All user settings
performed here can also be changed at any time through Windows Control Panel.
After the Windows Welcome and setup screen is displayed…
1. Review the Regional and Language options to ensure all settings are indicated as English (United
States / EN) etc. Change and save if necessary. Click Next.
2. Set the Date, Time, Time Zone and Daylight Savings settings as applicable to your location and click
Next. The system saves various settings and then automatically reboots to the Windows desktop.

Page 9 of 22
© 2013 Volkswagen Group 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 Volkswagen Group 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
8.0 – Network Configuration & Netviewer
8.1 – Preparation
1. Temporarily connect a USB mouse and keyboard to tablet (to aid with selections and input).
2. Connect network (Ethernet) cable to tablet.

8.2 – Set Computer Name

Notes
•
•
•

Should more than one VAS diagnostic device be connected to the dealership LAN, each device
must use a different computer name.
While various computer naming methods may be used, each must ensure that the computer
names for all individual devices on a network are different.
The computer name must be determined (“built”) and set prior to use of diagnostic application
functions requiring the use of a dealership LAN connection to the Internet.

We recommend the computer name be set before proceeding with the remaining setup.
For a suggested method to build, set and validate computer names, refer to Service Information – VAS
Tester document title: VAS Diagnostic Device Computer Name Builder

8.3 – Configure Static IP Addresses
This section applies ONLY to VAS diagnostic devices used in dealership networks using static IP
addresses (the tablet is set to DHCP by default). If your dealership network is configured using DHCP,
proceed to Section 8.4 – Download and Install Netviewer Software.
We recommend that you ask your dealership systems administrator or IT professional for assistance with
this step if you are unfamiliar with the process, or call the VWGoA IT Service Desk at: 866-892-3375.
3. Open the Windows Start menu by clicking Start, and then select Settings, then Control Panel.
4. Scroll down (if necessary) and select Network Connections.
5. From the Network Connections dialog, right click (select) Local Area Connection and open its
Properties dialog box.
6. Click on Internet Protocol (TCP/IP).
7. In the General tab, check “Use the following IP addresses” to open the IP data window.
8. Fill in all IP and DNS address fields as appropriate to your dealership. Ask your dealership systems
administrator or IT professional for assistance with this step if you do not know the necessary entries.
9. Select OK and close all dialog boxes, and Restart the tablet (Start > Shut down > Restart).
10. Connect a dealership network Ethernet cable to the tablet and confirm internet connectivity, i.e.: launch
Internet Explorer.

Page 10 of 22
© 2013 Volkswagen Group 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 Volkswagen Group 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.