
45
The Basics
VMSpc’s main program window consists of just a frame, a menu bar, and a large open
area where the gauges dwell. The main window can be sized and moved like any other pro-
gram - VMSpc does not have to use the full screen. Consult the Windows manuals for help in
arranging multiple programs on the screen.
The “gauges” are a motley collection of various small panels, and they take many
forms. They can be as simple as a bit of text or a picture, or as complex as a moving bar
graph (“histogram”). The gauges can be moved anywhere on the screen, made any size
desired, and customized in a variety of ways.
Moving and Sizing Gauges
To manipulate a gauge, first click on the gauge with the mouse. The border of the
gauge will thicken to indicate which gauge you selected. To move the gauge, click on it again
and hold the mouse button down, then move the mouse to “drag” the gauge where you want
it. To change the size of the gauge, click on the border of the gauge and “drag” it where you
want. The text and graphics in each gauge will automatically adjust their size to fit in the avail-
able space.
Gauges can overlap, or even cover each other, but this isn’t generally very useful. The
program also deliberately reduces the precision with which you can adjust the size. This is
intended to make it easier to keep the gauges lined up straight and looking sharp.
Customizing Gauges
You can customize each gauge in a variety of ways. In the illustration above, most of
the gauges shown are varieties of the same type - the “Simple” gauge - but they have been
customized for a variety of effects. As you will see in the next section, the Simple Gauge can
be made to show just a warning light, a number, a bar graph, or any combination. Of course,
you also configure the gauge to show the data that you want - Coolant Temperature, Oil Pres-
sure, Battery Volts. All types of gauges are similarly customizable.
To customize a gauge, first click on the gauge with the left mouse button to select it.
How VMSpc Works
Today’s electronic diesel engines all feature a standard digital interface that was de-
signed for mechanics to be able to test and diagnose all kinds of engine issues. Each engine
builder provides special electronic tools to their technicians to tap into this special interface.
VMSpc uses the exact same technology - but it doesn’t take an trained technician to use it.
All of the readings you see on your screen are taken directly from the engine and trans-
mission. They are the most accurate readings available - period. If your dash gauge differs
from the reading in VMSpc - trust VMSpc first. VMSpc shows you exactly what the sensor
reads, with no loss of accuracy like an analog gauge.
How to Get Help
You can get help from SilverLeaf Electronics in several ways. Our web site features
a bulletin board for VMSpc users - if you have a question about VMSpc, someone else quite
probably has already asked it and we’ve posted an answer. The bulletin board is also where
VMSpc users swap their ideas and tips, and is a good place to learn more about the program
and your vehicle.
If you need direct help, call SilverLeaf at 888-741-0259, 7:00-4:00 Pacific Time, Mon-
Fri. We’ll be happy to help you.
If you have questions about the diagnostic information VMSpc is providing, please call
your engine or transmission manufacturer or chassis builder. Granted, the SilverLeaf staff is
pretty engine-savvy, but we are just computer jockeys, after all. We can’t do much to fix a bad
injector.
Free Software!
Watch our web site - as we continue to update the VMSpc software you can download
the new versions free of charge. New versions come out several times per year, and you are
always welcome to them. If you have suggestions for future versions, let us know by posting
them on the web forum. Your ideas are important to us.
System Requirements
Pentium 90 mHz or faster. 200 mHz recommmended.
Windows 95, 98, ME, NT, Win2000, XP, Vista, or Windows 7.
Mac OSX using Bootcamp, VMware Fusion, or Parallels to run Windows
16 MB RAM. 32 MB recommended.
1 MB hard drive space.
USB Port
Electronic Diesel Engine w/SAE Standard Diagnostics.
Although we have tested VMSpc with a wide variety of systems, we cannot guarantee
that it will work with every PC hardware and software combination.
Warning: We have designed VMSpc to be highly flexible and easy to use. We didn’t do this
so you could try to manipulate the program while you drive. If you feel the need to change
your layout or settings, reset your odometer, or check your diagnostics while you are driving,
DON’T! Wait until you are completely stopped, or have a passenger make the changes. Your
refrigerator is also useful and easy to use, but we don’t want you getting up to grab a tasty
beverage while cruising at 65 mph either.