The E53 does need the DK head for the interface, and the E87 will need the OPS head. That is normal and just due to the software integration level of the vehicles. You will need a charger with an output of 30-45 amps for coding, especially with the E87. The E87 may also need the MOST bus fiber optic interface cable hooked up th the OPS head to do anything involving the radio system.

The better chargers to use have selectable output voltages and output amperage on power supply mode... I think Jose got one like this spec'ed to match the deutronic unit BMW uses at the dealer, maybe he could point you in the right direction. :thumbup:

It's really a power supply, not a battery charger. Power supplies provide a steady & constant voltage which is needed during programming (13.2~14.5V depending on control module). Battery chargers are not meant to be used as power supplies as they frequently send power spikes and unregulated voltage, which can instantly brick the module (or modules) you are working with.

Here's the one we are using, they are not cheap:

Official Fronius USA Site

Again, do not use a battery charger.

:iagree:

Now I see it. Thanks for remind!

The power supply you mentioned is pretty expensive. Is there something cheaper and reliable in the market? Please introduce some and can be purchased online and worldwide shipped. Thanks!

here is some thing about making a 12 power supply from a pc atx powersupply .

Power Supply

cj

Thanks for your help!

I found 3 power supply on eBay which are all listed by a same seller:

1. 12v/40A Power supply/ battery charger/Motorhome,caravan - eBay (item 350213801087 end time Jun-24-09 21:21:11 PDT)
This one was mentioned by a member here before.

2. DC 12v 3 Stage Battery charger,Volt meter,Caravan,4WD - eBay (item 350212098193 end time Jun-19-09 19:04:27 PDT)

and 3. 12v Power supply,Volt meter,Caravan,motorhome,4WD,boat - eBay (item 220435084741 end time Jun-24-09 21:21:10 PDT)

Would you please advise me on which one is better? Maybe the most expensive one is the best one, but I wonder how about the other two. Thanks for help!

I bought the one in the first link from that dealer. He can customize the specs for the power supply mode for free - he made it 110V for use in the USA. I can't find the specs I used for the PS mode but I basically made it as similar to the Deutronic unit BMW uses. It's not adjustable like the Deutronic but it doesn't cost $2000 either.

I don't plan on coding/programming for several hours but for $260 I thought it was a worth it. I think for most of the stuff, us non-mechanics using the laptop GT1 are gonna use it for, you don't really need the charger/PS but it's a little insurance. If you're planning on doing anything and everything, maybe it's worht getting the Deutronic. If I was going that route I'd only get the Deutronic.

It's all in how much you're willing to risk. I went into this not knowing much and still don't. However, even with my limited experience so far, I feel comfortable enough that I PROBABLY won't kill my ECU or do something drastic with this laptop GT1. That's just how I feel. I think everyone knows they have to make their own choice at their own risk.

Others might not be so willing to risk their X5! :rofl:

I'll look for the specs I used and post it.

Hi! Thanks for your advice.

Actually I am not planning to do everything, just want to do some module replacement DIY. So I think Deutronic is too much for this purpose. I believe something can provide stable voltage around 13.5v to 14v is enough for my purpose, but have no idea on AMP. Is 25 AMPs is enough or I need 40 AMPs? Thanks for any advice.

I would go with the 40amps.

Can I just use a jump start cable to connect to my X in the engine compartment from the other vehicle with running engine?