Please be gentle, I'm a total MS n00b--just got one from Braineack, haven't had time to install yet and just want to make sure I have what I need before I begin.

For the tuning laptop, is it necessary to actually drive the car with the laptop hooked up (possibly dangerous?), or is tuning done statically, e.g. parked in the driveway? I ask, because my serial-port-equipped laptop has a weak battery: if I need to be mobile I'll need to get the proper USB-serial cable, or a new laptop battery. If parked is fine, I can just run an extension cord.

 

To properly log things you will need it connected while driving. Also, to utilize any of the autotune features of Tunserstudio (assuming you paid for a license) it needs to be connected.

Maybe a small inverter will help out?

 

buy a really really long cable

 

LOL!

As for an inverter, I suspect that just getting the serial-USB cable will cost less. I do have laptops with good batteries; they just don't have serial ports.

Thanks for the info, and the laugh.

 

Depending on which ms you bought from braineack you might just need a USB cable.

 

You can get a good inverter for $35 at Lowe's/Depot.

 

Well, I have a serial -> USB cable because that's what my MS2E uses and an inverter because I leave it in the trunk for those times I have no battery left.

Good luck to you.

 

is DIYPNP; needs serial > usb adapter cable.

 

How much does a good USB-serial cable run?

 

Let me google that for you

Or you could buy it from a sponsor of the site because we all know it works;
USB to Serial Adapter - Works with TunerStudio! DIYAutoTune.com