* Time base - the amount of time displayed on the screen. Users need to understand that the time base setting on the scope can influence the sample rate. A slower sample rate may result in missed measurements of rapid voltage signal changes. Some scopes will allow some flexibility here where you can prioritize the sample rate within limitations. Typically, the more expensive the scope the more capable it is. Essentially, a decent consumption of electrical circuit education along with lab scope training and network communication knowledge will provide today's technician with the necessary skillset that will enable him or her to be successful today and well into the future. CASE STUDY NO. 1: THROTTLE ACTUATOR CONTROL (TAC) CHALLENGES Throttle-by-wire systems have been around for quite some time now and it's likely you've already encountered complaints involving these. We had a 2013 Volvo XC60 that arrived with the following complaint: Customer states that while driving the vehicle, they went to make a turn and the MIL suddenly came on, at that same point the vehicle seemed hesitant to shift into the next gear. The customer turned the vehicle off and started it up again, MIL light remained on but seemed to be driving normally. The technician started the vehicle and confirmed that it appeared to be operating properly and the MIL was still illuminated. Upon scanning the vehicle, the following DTCs were recorded within the ECM: * 0x7E8: P050700 - Idle air control (IAC) system RPM higher than expected. * 0x7E8: U016700 -Lost communication with vehicle immobilizer control module. * 0x7E8: P061F00 - Internal control module throttle actuator controller performance. Other modules reported faults (Figure 1) that didn't seem relevant to the current complaint. The technician proceeded to p Figure 3 - 2013 Volvo XC60 old throttle body key off Photo courtesy of Scott Brown www.VehicleServicePros.com JUNE 2023 PROFESSIONAL TOOL & EQUIPMENT NEWS 17 perform a vehicle inspection looking particularly at the throttle body and air intake systems since the throttle-by-wire systems are closely monitored and any airflow anomalies can trigger throttle actuator control (TAC) DTCs.After collecting the p Figure 2 - 2013 Volvo XC60 throttle body wiring Photo from ALLDATA freeze frame information, the DTCs were cleared, and several road tests were performed where zero faults were observed. The technician then removed the throttle body air inlet for inspection where he found lots of oil and carbon buildup on the throttlehttp://www.VehicleServicePros.com