Powergate 3+ Instructions
Important Programming Guidelines for Handheld Flasher (Powergate 3+)
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Battery Charger Requirement:
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Always use a battery charger to maintain a consistent 12 volts during programming.
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Failure to maintain voltage could lead to battery depletion, even if it’s new, and potentially damage the ECU.
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Handling Errors During Programming:
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If you encounter an error while programming:
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Do not turn the key off or unplug the power gate.
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These actions can harm the ECU.
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Instead, return to tuning and restart the programming process.
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Further instructions will clarify this process.
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ECU Safety During Programming:
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While reading the ECU, no damage occurs.
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However, programming can cause issues.
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Failures typically result from:
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A flat battery (disable accessories like air conditioning and radio).
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Interruptions in the car-to-ECU connection.
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To mitigate risks:
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Connect a battery charger to the vehicle battery before starting programming.
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Address any battery weakness beforehand.
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Completion of Programming:
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Ensure that programming completes successfully before:
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Disconnecting the cable.
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Turning off the key.
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Remember to follow these guidelines meticulously to avoid any potential damage to the ECU during programming.
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The 3 Main Steps:
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Download the Powergate 3+ Software:
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Ensure you have a Windows PC with a USB port (Windows 8 or newer).
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Download the Powergate 3+ software from the provided link at bottom of page.
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Transfer the Read File:
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After reading the file from your car, transfer it to your computer.
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Email the file to us.
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File Modification and Programming:
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We will modify the file as needed.
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Once ready, we’ll send it back to you so you can program your car
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Unboxing and Initial Setup:
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In your box, you should find the following items:
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Powergate 3+ device
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OBD2 plug
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USB plug
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Important: Ensure you have a solid internet connection before proceeding.
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Software Installation:
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Use a PC running Windows 8 or higher.
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Download the Powergate 3+ software.
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Run the installer, following the prompts as you would for any other program.
Device Connection and Update:
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Open the downloaded Powergate 3+ software.
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Connect the Powergate 3+ to your computer’s USB port using the supplied USB cord.
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The software will identify the device and initiate an update.
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If you encounter an “initialize device” error, unplug and reconnect the Powergate while keeping the software running. It should eventually recognize the device.
Familiarize Yourself with the Touch Screen:
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The Powergate 3+ has a touch screen interface.
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Key sections:
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Tuning: Start the process of reading your car.
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Setup: Access the setup menu.
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Diagnosis: Allows vehicle diagnostics.
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Information: Displays hardware/software versions, serial number, and ECU details if you’ve already read your vehicle.
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Navigation bar for system navigation.
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Preparing Your Vehicle:
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After updating the software, unplug the Powergate.
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Locate your vehicle’s OBD2 port (usually under the dashboard) and plug in the Powergate.
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Turn the car to the ON position (dashboard lights on, but the vehicle not running).
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Turn off all accessories.
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For keyless cars, press the start button without starting the car (no foot on the brake). The ECU will power up without starting the engine.
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Powergate Activation:
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The Powergate will turn on and load the home screen.
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Click on the TUNING icon using the touch screen.
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Select Vehicle Details: Choose the Make, Model, and Engine that closely matches your car.
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Remember to follow these steps carefully to ensure successful programming and avoid any issues with your ECU.