Having the right set of tools and accessories is essential. Here’s a rundown of the most useful accessories that every ADAS technician should consider for their toolkit.
1. Lasers and Laser Reflective Targets
Precision is paramount in ADAS. Lasers and laser reflective targets are indispensable for ensuring accurate alignment. These tools help in pinpointing the exact positioning required for calibrating sensors and cameras, ensuring that the vehicle’s safety systems function correctly.
If you don’t have any lasers or need more, check out the Autel five line laser or the Autel two line laser. Also, the laser reflective board is quite nice to have.
2. Battery Maintainer
During calibration, it’s important to keep the vehicle’s battery at an optimal charge. A battery maintainer prevents the battery from draining, ensuring that all electronic systems remain operational throughout the calibration process. This is especially important for vehicles with numerous electronic components.
For example, there’s the NOCO GENIUS PRO 50 which will be more than enough to keep the charge of a car’s battery. The amperage on a charger (50 in this case) tells you how fast you can charge a battery, and 50 is plenty enough for a passenger vehicle.
3. Plumb Bob
A plumb bob is a simple, yet commonly used tool that helps to verify vehicle centerline alignment.
4. Tape Measure
A reliable tape measure helps in determining the correct distances and positioning for sensors and cameras. It ensures that the calibration targets are placed at the precise distances required by the vehicle manufacturer. Make sure to get one that measures in millimeters, because manufacturers typically give measurements in millimeters.
5. Wet Erase Markers
These markers are for making temporary marks on the ground for target placement. They can be easily wiped off, making them ideal for marking positions without leaving permanent marks.
6. Weights and Magnetic Hats
If the vehicle doesn’t have a full tank of gas, you can compensate by adding a weight to the vehicle. Some OEMs require a full tank of gas during the calibration.
You place the magnetic hats on top of the car so you don’t forget to take the weights out, especially if the weights are in the trunk!
7. Tire Inflator
Maintaining proper tire pressure is important for accurate calibration. A tire inflator ensures that the vehicle is at the correct ride height, which is necessary for precise sensor alignment.
8. Light Blocking Screen
When working with cameras and sensors, controlling light is essential. A light blocking screen helps in eliminating glare and unwanted light reflections, ensuring that the sensors can accurately detect the calibration targets. On a sunny day, this can make or break a calibration.
Conclusion
Having the right accessories can make a significant difference in the accuracy and efficiency of ADAS calibration. These tools not only help in achieving precise alignment but also ensure that the vehicle’s safety systems function as intended.
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