Getting Started

VisiCan Data Displays Getting Started & User Manual

What Is VisiCan?

VisiCan Displays are OBD-connected information displays that communicate with your vehicle using custom protocols, similar to factory diagnostic software such as ODIS, VCDS (for VW/Audi) or ISTA (for BMW).

VisiCan reads live critical engine data directly from the Engine Control Unit (ECU) and presents it in an easy-to-read format using color-coded metrics and graphics. By monitoring key parameters in real time, it helps drivers instantly identify issues such as:

  • Low-octane fuel usage & knock occurrence
  • Turbo boost pressure leaks
  • Excessive exhaust gas temperatures (EGT)
  • Fuel injector anomalies & flow imbalances
  • And other critical engine parameters

VisiCan continuously monitors parameters in real time without requiring constant driver attention. When a value turns red on the display, you can simply lift off the throttle and prevent potential engine damage.

🛠️ Installation Services: VisiCan Displays are delivered as complete Do-It-Yourself (DIY) kits. Most customers complete self-installation within 30–45 minutes. Alternatively, installation can be performed by your local mechanical workshop or authorized partner locations.

1. Package Contents

Your VisiCan package includes the following components:

  • VisiCan Display Unit
  • OBD & Power Harness (CAN Gateway Cable on supported models)
  • USB-TTL Interface Module (used for firmware flasher and data logging)
  • USB Extension Cable (recommended for convenient updating access)
💡 Pro Tip: The USB-TTL interface module is not required for daily driving. However, routing the USB extension cable to an easily accessible spot (such as the glovebox or footwell) allows you to update firmware without removing the vent housing from the dashboard.

🎥 Unboxing & Overview Video:

2. Pre-Installation Bench Test (Recommended)

We recommend performing a quick bench test before installing VisiCan into your air vent assembly:

  1. Connect the OBD harness to the VisiCan main display cable.
  2. Connect the USB-TTL module via the USB extension cable.
  3. Plug the OBD connector into your vehicle's diagnostic port.
  4. Turn ON the vehicle ignition.
  5. Verify that the display powers up, shows the startup logo, and all four side buttons respond.

This quick step confirms hardware functionality before proceeding with trim removal.

3. Air Vent Housing Installation

Air vent installation typically takes 30–45 minutes and requires no cutting, drilling, or permanent dashboard modifications:

  1. Carefully unclip and remove the factory air vent assembly from the dashboard using plastic trim tools.
  2. Disassemble and remove the internal vent louver fins on the driver-side vent opening.
  3. Insert the VisiCan housing unit into the vent opening in place of the factory fins.
  4. Route the connection cables inward through the vent ducting down toward the OBD port area.
  5. Re-seat and snap the air vent assembly back into the dashboard.
⚠️ Important Safety Warning: Ensure harness cables are secured away from the footwell and pedal assembly. Use cable ties to secure loose wiring behind lower steering column trim panels.

4. Power & Memory Behavior

  • VisiCan powers on automatically with vehicle ignition and enters Sleep Mode or shuts down when ignition turns off.
  • Active display pages, brightness settings, and Day/Night preferences are automatically saved to internal EEPROM memory.
  • All user configurations remain preserved even if the vehicle battery is disconnected.

5. Physical Button Functions

VisiCan is controlled via four physical buttons located on or beside the display frame:

  • Button 1: Previous Page / Back in Menu
  • Button 2: Day / Night background mode toggle
  • Button 3: Quick brightness toggle / Action trigger (e.g., clear DTCs)
  • Button 4: Next Page / Forward in Menu / Hold down for Configuration Menu

🎥 Buttons & Controls Navigation Guide:

6. Display Modes Overview

Depending on your vehicle platform and installed firmware, VisiCan provides the following real-time display pages:

  • OFF Mode: Disables active CAN communication to allow third-party diagnostic scanners (ODIS, ISTA) to connect smoothly.
  • DTC Display & Clear Mode: Reads engine diagnostic fault codes and allows one-touch clearing via Button 3.
  • General Overview: Summarizes core engine metrics in a unified grid layout.
  • Retard Detail Mode: Monitors individual cylinder ignition knock retard (KW1–KW4 / KWx) in real time.
  • Misfire Detail Mode: Tracks individual cylinder misfire counters (M.1–M.4).
  • Boost & Torque Detail: Displays target vs. actual boost pressure alongside calculated torque.
  • Temperature Detail: Consolidates coolant, oil, transmission, and intake air temperature sensors.
  • Performance Monitor: Automatically times acceleration runs (0–100, 60–160, 100–200 km/h).

7. Understanding Displayed Values & Color Coding

All parameters feature dynamic color-coding for effortless visual assessment while driving:

  • White: Normal safe operating range.
  • Orange: Warning threshold / Approaching limits (Caution).
  • Red: Critical limit reached – Requires immediate action (Lift off throttle).

VisiCan continuously monitors Knock Retard, AFR, Fuel Pressures, Oil/Coolant Temperatures, EGT, Boost Pressure, and Injector deviations. You don't need to stare at the screen; if a metric flashes red, you can immediately ease off the accelerator to protect your engine.

8. Performance Acceleration Monitor

The Performance Monitor measures acceleration times directly from ECU wheel speed data

  • 0–100 km/h acceleration timer
  • 60–160 km/h mid-range acceleration timer
  • 100–200 km/h high-speed acceleration timer

Operation Logic: When vehicle speed drops below the starting threshold, the meter arms ("READY"). Crossing the lower speed threshold automatically triggers the timer, which stops instantly upon reaching the target speed (includes a 25.5-second timeout safeguard).

9. Firmware Updates & USB-TTL Interface

VisiCan firmware updates are performed using the USB-TTL interface connected to a PC running Chromium-based browsers (Chrome, Edge, Opera).

Hardware Generation Bootloader Entry:

  • 1st & 2nd Generation: Automatically enters boot mode upon flashing initialization.
  • 3rd, 4th & 5th Generation: Turn OFF ignition; press and hold Button 1 on VisiCan while turning ignition ON. The screen remains blank, indicating hardware Flashing Mode is active.
Open Firmware Update Page ➔

10. Need Assistance?

For technical support regarding installation, firmware updates, vehicle compatibility, or parameter setup, reach out to our team: