BMW ISTA diagnostics INFO software

The Info: What You Should Know

For diagnosis and programming of all BMW models.

The software offered in the shop is in no way the property of BMW.
It is exclusively our proprietary software.

©2025 Bimmerpro

Overview of software available on the global market

  • BMW Dealer Diagnostic System – DIS V57

  • BMW Software Service Station – SSS/Progman V32

  • BMW Technical Information System – TIS

  • BMW Dealer Diagnostic System – INPA

  • Ediabas 7.7.2

  • Ediabas ToolSet 32 – Work at an expert level with BMW control units

  • WinKFP – Update and programming of control units

  • NFS (New Flash System) – Update and programming of monitoring units

  • BMW Coding Tool

  • NCS Expert

  • NCS Dummy

  • BMW WDS V12.0 – BMW Wiring Diagrams (multi-language interface)

  • BMW ETK – Electronic Parts Catalog (multi-language interface)

  • BMW ETM – Electronic Troubleshooting Manual

  • BMW KSD – Dealer Catalog including current rates (multi-language interface)

  • BMW ISTA+ (Rheingold) 4.xx Standalone – available separately

  • BMW ISTA-P 3.7xx – available separately

  • FTDI USB Cable Driver

  • SP-DATEN

  • Dr. Gini

Series & Requirements

Exx Series

  • Interface: K+DCAN Cable (OBDII to USB) or ICOM

  • ECU Data Files: SP-Daten

  • NCS Expert: Coding Software

  • WinKFP: Programming (Flash) Software

  • EDIABAS: Low-Level ECU Communication Software (used by NCS Expert & WinKFP)

Fxx / Ixx / Gxx Series, MINI & Rolls-Royce

  • Interface: ENET Cable (OBDII to RJ45/Ethernet) or ICOM

  • ECU Data Files: PSdZData

  • E-Sys: Coding Software

  • E-Sys: Programming Software (Flash Software)

ICOM (Adapter Overview)

  • ICOM A: Main Interface

  • ICOM B: Adapter for programming E-series multimedia devices

  • ICOM C: Adapter for older BMW models with round 20-pin diagnostic connector

  • ICOM D: Adapter for motorcycles

Minimum Requirements

  • Windows 7–11 Computer

  • ISTA+: 40 GB installation + > 2 GB free space for running (diagnosis only)

  • Additionally ~ 100 GB SDP & ICOM for programming (excluding E-series)

  • ISTA-P: 80 GB installation

  • Minimum dual-core 2.6 GHz processor

  • Minimum 4 GB RAM

It is important to note that these are extensive software packages that require a lot of storage space and processing power for smooth operation. We therefore recommend that you carefully read the product description and system requirements before installing and using these tools. If necessary, you may also need to upgrade your computer hardware or operating system to meet the minimum requirements.

Overview of programs available on the global market

  • ISTA-D RHEINGOLD / ISTA+ Diagnostic and Repair Manual Exx Series, incl. Diagrams WDS

  • Diagnosis and programming of Fxx/Ixx/Gxx series

  • ISTA-P Programming and Coding Software (VO coding) – E-series only

  • KSD Work Software

  • ETK Accessory Catalog

  • E-SYS Engineer Software for FG series (programming and coding)

  • WINKFP Engineer Software for E-series (programming)

  • NCS Expert Engineer Software for E-series (coding)

  • INPA Engineer Software for E + some F-series (diagnosis)

  • TOOL32 Engineer Software for E-series (directly executable)

  • BMW CODING TOOL Auxiliary Software (import of SP data into WinKFP & NCS Expert)

  • NCS DUMMY Auxiliary Software (modification of NCS Expert data)

  • ITOOL RADAR for detecting ICOM activation/release ports

  • EASY CONNECT for configuring environmental parameters

Which cable do I need for my car?

K-Line cable

For model years 2000–2007: K-Line USB cable via the 16-pin OBD port.

K-Line cable set

For model years 1997–2007: K-Line cable + 16-to-20-pin OBD adapter (round 20-pin connector in the engine compartment).
Note: This 20-pin adapter does not support ADS and therefore offers limited support for ADS-equipped models (e.g., E36).

D-Can cable

For model years 2000–2010+: D-Can USB cable for 2007–2018 and the included 16-to-16-pin K-Line adapter for model years 2000–2007.
(The D-Can cable is software-dependent and compatible with all E-series models up to and including 2018.)

D-CAN cable set

As above (D-CAN cable + adapter), additionally with 16–20-pin OBD adapter to support E38, E39, and E46 models (1997–2000).
Note: 20-pin adapter does not support ADS → limited support for ADS models (e.g., E36).

Ethernet cable

For all new F-series models.

ICOM – Explanation

The Integrated Communication Optical Module (ICOM) is a diagnostic device used by BMW authorized workshops and service centers to communicate with BMW vehicles. It is a multiplexer that connects to the OBD-II port and enables communication with the electronic control units (ECUs). The ICOM is compatible with various software programs, including ISTA (Integrated Service Technical Application). Additionally, the ICOM can reprogram and update vehicle software and firmware, and perform various diagnostic functions. It is an indispensable tool for BMW technicians and service centers to diagnose and troubleshoot complex problems.

DIS / TIS / SSS (Brief Description)

DIS V57 and SSS/Progman V32 provide comprehensive diagnostics of BMW and MINI electronic systems and include a database with device information, equipment details, and wiring diagrams for model series from 1985 to 2010. The system reads and clears fault codes, reads technical parameters, performs actuator tests, identifies block versions and their software codes, and programs control units.

BMW TIS (Technical Information System) is an online database containing technical information, repair instructions, diagrams, technical bulletins, recall actions, and other important information.

SSS/Progman V32 is an older platform for programming, individualization, and coding, which has now been replaced by newer systems such as ISTA-D and ISTA-P.

Supported Languages

SSS/Progman: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Dutch, Swedish, Japanese (total 18 languages)
TIS: English, German
INPA: English, German
KSD: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Dutch, Swedish, Japanese (total 26 languages)
ISTA+ (Rheingold): English, German
ISTA-P: Multi-language

Please read the product description.

Functions (Excerpt)

  • Read / clear fault codes

  • Reset service light

  • DME/DDE synchronization

  • EWS/CAS synchronization

  • Read data streams (LiveData)

  • Actuator tests (activation)

  • Coding / programming (depending on vehicle/hardware)

  • Reset airbag warning light

  • ABS wheel speed check

  • Clear adaptations

  • Adjust air suspension

  • Full diagnostics including test plans

  • Update vehicle software/firmware

  • Program new items / upgrade functions

  • Battery registration after replacement

  • Code control units (e.g., daytime running lights, seat memory to key, acoustic signal after locking)

  • And much more, including wiring diagrams and parts catalog

What is the Info?

The Info is a comprehensive source of information that provides not only facts but also relevant contexts. It helps readers understand why certain things are important and how they are interconnected. Therefore, it is essential to use sources that are both accurate and understandable to make informed decisions.

Why is the Info important?

There are many reasons why the Info is of great importance. Firstly, it facilitates access to knowledge, explaining complex topics simply. Secondly, it is crucial that information is up-to-date, as the world is constantly changing and developments impact our daily lives. Thus, the Info is a valuable tool for education and decision-making.

How can you use the Info?

There are various ways to effectively use the Info, but it is important to critically examine and question the information. Use it to learn more about topics that interest you or to deepen your knowledge. Use the Info as a springboard for further research, because it often refers to additional resources that can help you gain a more comprehensive understanding.

BMW and MINI are registered trademarks of Bayerische Motoren Werke AG.
This website is in no way affiliated with BMW AG and should not be confused with the websites of BMW AG or BMW M GmbH.

This software is provided for educational purposes only and not for commercial use, allowing private users to diagnose and program their vehicles.

All liability is excluded, whether express or implied.

The software offered in the shop is in no way the property of BMW.
It is exclusively our own, proprietary software.

©2025 Bimmerpro