Serial Data Communication


The serial connection is rated at 115kbps and 230kbps with auto switching based on bandwidth requirement and SNR. A good quality serial lead should be used for connection to the tuning laptop/PC, as well as a genuine FTDI Serial -> USB Cable.


If you are using a semi or fully terminated wiring loom, then a female DB9 connection will already be provided at the main connector. If you have opted for a plug/pins system, then you will need to make up the connections as follows. Use a female DB9 connection to allow a PC/Laptop to connect via a straight through extension cable and then a genuine FTDI Serial -> USB adaptor can be used.


Note that CAN2 is not available on the GENX ME221/ME360/ME442.



Pin 5 | SERIAL GROUND | Connect to ECU Pin 24

Pin 2 | SERIAL DATA | Connect to ECU Pin 25

Pin 3 | SERIAL DATA | Connect to ECU Pin 55

Note that some older laptops with in-built serial ports may not work with the ME221/ME442 due to not supporting the higher speed. You should always use an FTDI Serial -> USB adaptor where possible. Prolific and CH304 Chinese clones are NOT supported.


Always be sure to install the latest FTDI Serial/USB drivers which can be downloaded from the support section of our website.


CAN-Bus Communications


The ME442 REV C/D houses dual 2.0b compliant CAN transceivers. Note that the line is not terminated inside the ME442, so a termination resistor will be required if the ME442 is at the end of the bus. Several OEM dash CAN-streams are available, as well as a general purpose CAN stream for after-market dashboards. The CAN DBC files are available on the ME website, as well as detailed in the appendix. Use twisted pair cable for CANbus wiring.


The ME221/ME360/ME442 GENX only features a single CAN (CAN 1) but it is terminated internally with a 120ohm resistor.


CAN1-Low is Pin 51
CAN1-High is Pin 21


CAN2-Low is Pin 35
CAN2-High is Pin 36