GTC TA500 Smartach + COP Multisystem Ignition Analyzer Black

This is a good diagnostic tool, which is easy and quick to use. Even though I have a Picoscope, Vantage Pro, etc, it's nice to be able to quickly check burn time, etc on COP sytems. HOWEVER, GTC has recently introduced a new tool at the same price point that, in my opinion, blows this one away. It's the GTC505 (also available on Amazon), and it has a color display that shows the secondary pattern, as well as other views of the data that make diagnosing even easier. The manufacturer has a good YT video of the unit's functionality on their YT channel (General Technologies Corp.) I recommend watching "GTC505 Demonstration," and you may find a couple more vids about it that are interesting.The only thing I like better about this unit is that the red cover and case seem like they might be more robust if the unit is accidentally dropped to a hard floor. Other than that, I like the well thought out graphical display much better on the new GTC505. If you do much ignition diagnostic work, I think you'll love this unit. Even an active "weekend" DIY might find this device well worthwhile. When I consider all the $$ that I have spent over the last 40 years on ignition scopes and engine analyzers, I am BLOWN AWAY by the capabilities of the GTC505.Note: I paid full price for my TA500 and GTC505, and have never had any contact with GTC. I just think (based on vast professional experience) that these products really rock -- especially at this price. (ASE Master, L1, SAE, etc) Enjoy!

The TA100 would probably do you just fine if all you're doing is OPE. Automotive techs may want the TA500.My 10 year old or so GTC TA100 antennae wore out, a retaining pin pulled through it's captive section. I'd been eyeing the TA500, there's not much difference between the new 100 and 500, the 500 can do COP and give burn times. Features I don't need, but I figured I'd upgrade. I am very happy about the life the TA100 gave me, cost about $100 back then, so was about $10 a year.The original TA100 had a problem reading Honda (OPE) engines, as they (used to, anyway) employ a resistor plug boot. Honda engines are now made in other countries than before (was Philippines & Japan), and if you look the plug boot on the new engines, they cost 1/3 price that of the "old" ones, and my OLD TA100 seems to have no problem (see pics of same engine test run today). So perhaps the new boots have less resistance? Installed a new GX160 on a tamper today, figured I'd put some pics up too.If you ever have a problem getting a read, try moving the tester away from the coil area, and/or moving away slowly from the plug wire.I recommend this product. And, don't buy it from GTC's direct, they'll even tell you they sell through Amazon for less.

Works great saves lots of time in the diag process

I work on old motorcycles and many of these do not have a tachometer, or perhaps the tach is not accurate. This is a slick, well made tool that does exactly what you'll want. If you're looking at this product and reviews, just buy it! It's made in Canada, which for me is plus, since I have tired of buying electronics (and darn near everything else) made in China.Questions to GTC about the product's operation and how to interpret the screen readings are answered by real, knowledgeable, English-speaking people, who are patient and friendly. I would not hesitate to purchase this, nor any other GTC product.

Used a couple times to diagnose misfire issues. Works well. Saved alot of time not having to do pin point test to be certain of what i already suspect. Works on standard ignition systems as well. Coils and wires that are in close proximity do require shielding with heavy duty aluminum foil to prevent bleed over. So far seems well designed and buit. Easy to use. Hopefully provides years of services.

Works great

Nifty little device. Very easy to use. Tried it out on my wife's 2012 Nissan Rogue with a COP ignition on my 90HP 4-stroke outboard with a DIS ignition and it read every plug and provided all data as described. A good fast check. Next best thing to an automotive scope. Gives you min/max RPM, KV, and burn time. RPM matched another timing light.

I used on 2 and 4 cycles small engines w. good results.I tested the unit on my car, comparing the TA500's RPM readings vs. a OBD II code readings.Both devices shown v. close RPM values.I've read other reviews about this analyzer.It is easy to use, but care have to be taken to not pick up electromagnetic fields from adjacent wires - when v. close to the one we want to measure, because the reading may not be correct.Read the instructions provided and use common sense.