Bendix ACom AE, the newest generation of diagnostic software from Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, integrates support of its leading-edge Bendix GSBC (global scalable brake control) and GSAT (global scalable air treatment) technologies.

The new software, Bendix ACom AE, is supported by Cojali and modeled on its Jaltest diagnostic software. Bendix said it delivers an updated look and feel while building on ACom’s two-decade legacy of providing technicians with detailed information and helping minimize downtime.

 “With Bendix GSBC and GSAT now available on North American vehicles, it’s crucial to equip maintenance teams with the proper tools to keep trucks operating safely,” said TJ Thomas, Bendix director of marketing and customer solutions – controls. “As newer electronic control units – ECUs – have been incorporated into Bendix systems over the years, ACom has evolved to support them, and this is the next step in that development.”

Bendix launched the original Bendix ACom diagnostic software in 2004. The tool was downloaded more than 100,000 times before being succeeded by Bendix ACom Pro in 2019.

As of Sept. 1, 2024, ACom Pro diagnostic software is no longer available for purchase, and support for ACom Pro will end Aug. 31, 2025, or when the user’s current license expires. ACom Pro users can check their license expiration date within the platform’s application settings > registration menu.

How Global Scalable Brake Control Works

GSBC is Bendix’s electronic braking system (EBS) technology. EBS, sometimes called “brake-by-wire” or electro-pneumatic braking system technology, uses electronic signals to control brake applications, as opposed to current antilock braking systems, where that control signal is pneumatic.

How Global Scalable Air Treatment Works

GSAT is a modular control system for compressed air-operated braking systems. It was built to address evolving functionalities and regional environmental regulations while providing manufacturers with a high level of flexibility during installation.

Accessible and Accurate Information, Quick Delivery

With an eye on the evolving needs of the commercial vehicle industry technician pool, Bendix ACom AE diagnostic software offers expanded accessibility through its availability in English, French, and Spanish. Users can switch between the three languages as needed.

“Today’s trucks and their safety systems are more complex and interconnected than ever, and keeping them running properly is an important aspect of both highway safety and effective supply chain operation,” said Bruno Gattamorta, chief commercial officer at Cojali USA.

How Bendix ACom AE Works

When connected to a vehicle, Bendix ACom AE detects and gathers active and inactive diagnostic troubleshooting codes (DTCs) from Bendix and R.H. Sheppard electronic control units on the vehicle and key vehicle ECUs, like the engine and transmission. This roll call shows what’s on the vehicle, eliminating the need for a technician to guess from a prepopulated list of components.

Cojali is the developer and manufacturer of Jaltest, the multi-brand diagnostic system for commercial and other vehicle types in the aftermarket segment. The company will integrate functionality into the Bendix framework, enhancing the overall diagnostic capabilities for Bendix customers. Munich, Germany-based Knorr-Bremse, Bendix’s parent company, is the majority shareholder of Cojali.

“Together, we will provide seamless integration and superior service, combining Bendix’s industry leadership with Cojali’s cutting-edge technology to deliver advanced diagnostics and fleet management solutions to the Bendix network,” Gattamorta added.

“Bendix ACom AE assists the technician when diagnosing and troubleshooting all our tractor and trailer electronic products and provides features that technicians have come to expect, like DTC reporting and bi-directional communication that enables configuration, calibration, and testing,” Thomas said. “It’s also compatible with RP-1210-C adapters. And as a subscription service, ACom AE will be updated approximately three times per year with no additional charge.”

Other Bendix products supported by Bendix ACom AE include:

• Bendix antilock braking systems (ABS)

• Bendix automatic traction control (ATC)

• Bendix stability control

• Bendix Fusion advanced driver assistance systems

• BlindSpotter side object detection system

• iSense air disc brake pad wear sensing

• SmarTire Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

“We always strive to help put North America’s truck drivers in the safest vehicles possible,” Thomas said, “and to do that, we aim to give professional technicians the best tools possible.”