K-TAG Master: Instruction Manual and User's Guide
K-TAG Master: Instruction Manual and User's Guide
K-TAG Master: Instruction Manual and User's Guide
This user manual has been specially designed to guide you through the functions and features of
K-TAG, the Engine Control Units and Gearbox Control Units programmer via a direct interface to
the microcontroller.
This guide provides basic information about how to download the K-Suite software and program
an ECU. The guide also includes warnings and precautions for safe and proper use of the product
as well as warranty terms and conditions and software license.
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Version 1.01
The product and its accessories are suitable for professional use only.
This product is intended only for the tuning of vehicles for competitions or to be used on closed
circuit not open to public.
The product allows having access to operating engine management parameters: the
subsequent modification of these parameters may make the vehicle not in line with the
requirements and standards of your Country about power, speed and emissions. It may also
cause a different or greater wear and tear of mechanical and electrical components of the
vehicle and could void the warranty provided by the manufacturer/sellers of the vehicle.
Alientech Srl, its subsidiaries and affiliates make no warranties of any kind about any extra wear
or deterioration of the engine or other electrical or mechanical parts of the vehicle or as to the
compliance with exhaust emission standards and regulations required by your Country.
The tool and its accessories shall be used only after a thorough reading of this guide and the
Operating Manuals dedicated to the several protocols, and only in compliance with guidelines
and suggestions.
The product may enable modifying the operation of the vehicle; therefore, the vehicle may
have different reactions when compared to standard conditions specified by the manufacturer.
The greatest attention must be paid when driving a vehicle which has its engine parameters
modified.
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Version 1.01
- Regulatory Information
3
Version 1.01
Term Explanation
Positioning frame Support on which you can place the ECU for an easier connection (sold
separately).
Board Adapter for Adapter to place on some of the ECUs when using the positioning frame
positioning frame (sold separately).
Backup Backup copy of the data stored in the engine control unit, made to prevent
an accidental total loss of these data.
Restore Procedure to write the backup file to the engine control unit, thus returning
the engine control unit to the state it was in when it was backed up.
Patch Procedure to enable / disable serial communication on the engine control
unit.
Checksum Operation that serves to verify the integrity of data in the engine control
unit. The checksum correction is performed on each modified file before
loading it into the engine control unit, to ensure its functioning. K-TAG
always performs the checksum correction automatically.
ECU Electronic Control Unit. It is usually a synonymous for engine control unit.
EEPROM Electrically Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory.
Reprogrammable memory. Writing, erasing and rewriting take place
electrically, even in-circuit.
Flash Reprogrammable memory, with operation similar to the EEPROM but in
Flash technology.
Micro Electronic processing and control device integrated on a single integrated
(Microcontroller) circuit.
LOG file File to which the tool records chronologically all reading and programming
activities during the communication with the engine control unit.
Original file File containing data (including maps) for engine management, stocked in the
engine control unit.
Modified file Files created from the original file by making variations on engine
management data; to be rewritten to the engine control unit
Firmware Program embedded in the tool that allows its working.
ID Procedure to obtain the identification data of the engine control unit.
(Identification)
Operating Manuals embedded in the K-Suite software, automatically displayed each
Manuals time a Family of communication is selected. They provide indications about
cables needed, connection instructions, and warnings and cautions that
must be followed to correctly carry out the programming of the engine
control unit.
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Version 1.01
Note: Even when the Slave user wants to overwrite the original file or
restore the backup file, it must ask his Master for the validation of these
files..
OBDII diagnostic Standardized hardware interface connector that provides access to the
connector state of health information for various vehicle sub-systems to perform On-
Board Diagnostics.
ECU programming The tuning of engine management parameters stocked in an ECU. It can be
carried out in serial communication or in Boot mode, and it substantially
consists in three operations:
Reading the original file stocked in the ECU.
Modifying the original file using a tuning software.
Writing the modified file to the ECU.
Serial Communication mode with the electronic control unit through the
communication diagnostic connector of the vehicle (often called OBDII connector).
It can be done:
Via diagnostic connector: with the ECU mounted on the vehicle, simply
by connecting to the diagnostic connector typically located in the
cockpit.
On bench: by disconnecting all original wiring and removing the ECU
from the vehicle to connect to its external connector using an
appropriate instrumentation, with no need to open the ECU.
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Version 1.01
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Version 1.01
Warnings .............................................................................................................................................. 2
Important notices about the use of the K-TAG tool ........................................................................ 2
Important notices about the contents in this guide ........................................................................ 3
- Regulatory Information ..................................................................................................... 3
Glossary ............................................................................................................................................ 4
Precautions .......................................................................................................................................... 9
Safety................................................................................................................................................ 9
Use and handling.............................................................................................................................. 9
AC Adaptor and AC Power Cord use .............................................................................................. 10
WEEE Directive ............................................................................................................................... 10
Risks associated with operations to Read or Reprogram data ...................................................... 11
Cleaning .......................................................................................................................................... 11
Checking the package contents ......................................................................................................... 12
Parts name and functions .................................................................................................................. 13
Right side of the tool ...................................................................................................................... 13
Left side of the tool ........................................................................................................................ 13
Basic operations ................................................................................................................................. 14
Installing the K-Suite software ....................................................................................................... 14
Installing the K-TAG........................................................................................................................ 14
Tool registration ............................................................................................................................. 15
K-Suite software main screen ........................................................................................................ 16
Configuring K-TAG for the use ....................................................................................................... 17
How to set the screen resolution............................................................................................... 17
How to set the language of the software .................................................................................. 18
How to view the list of vehicles supported by K-TAG ................................................................ 19
How to download the Operating Manuals ................................................................................ 20
How to display the information about your tool ....................................................................... 21
Operating procedures ........................................................................................................................ 22
How to connect the tool ................................................................................................................ 22
Choosing a Family of communication ............................................................................................ 22
How to choose a Family using the Vehicles buttons ................................................................. 22
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Version 1.01
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Version 1.01
Safety
This product has been designed with the highest concern for safety. However, any electrical
device, if used improperly, has the potential for causing fire, electrical shock or personal injury. To
help ensure accident-free operation, follow these guidelines:
Observe all warnings, precautions and instructions.
Regularly inspect the AC adaptor and AC power cord for damage and for dust build-up around
the power plug or electrical outlet.
Stop use, unplug the AC Power Cord from the electrical outlet, unplug the USB cable from the
computer and disconnect any other cables immediately if the device functions in an abnormal
manner, produces unusual sounds or smells or becomes too hot to touch.
Never disassemble the product or accessories provided. Use the K-TAG and accessories
according to the instructions in this guide and following the connection instructions provided in
the Operating Manuals dedicated to the various protocols, available within the K-Suite
software. No authorization for the analysis or modification of the product, or the analysis or
modification of the K-Suite software, or of its circuit configurations, is provided. Disassembling
will void the system warranty and it may be dangerous.
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Version 1.01
WEEE Directive
This symbol on the product or its packaging indicates that this product shall not be
treated as household waste. In line with EU Directive 2002/96/EC for waste of electrical
and electronic equipment (WEEE), this product must not be disposed of as unsorted
municipal waste. Please dispose of this product by returning it to the point of sale or to
your local municipal collection point for recycling.
10
Version 1.01
DO NOT disconnect the communication cable between the tool and the ECU.
DO NOT unplug the USB cable between the tool and the computer.
DO NOT turn off your computer.
DO NOT use the tool in a location that is exposed to static electricity or electrical interference.
If, for any reason, a damage to the ECU or a data loss or corruption (even partial) occurs and it is
not possible to make a restoration, Alientech Srl, its subsidiaries and affiliates will not be will
not be held liable for any damages, costs or expenses coming from this loss or corruption.
Cleaning
For safety reasons, unplug the AC Power Cord from the electrical outlet and disconnect any other
cables before cleaning the product.
Cleaning the exterior surface: Wipe gently with a soft cloth. Do not use solvents or other
chemicals to clean the exterior surface of the K-TAG.
Cleaning the connectors: Do not use the product if the connectors, the AC Adaptor or the AC
Power Cord are not clean. Remove the dirt with a dry cloth.
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Version 1.01
□ 8 male pin header (1.27mm pitch) □ 8 female pin header (2.54mm pitch)
□ 1 kit AT3401001 with 2 male pin header (2.54mm) and 10 female pin header (2.54mm)
□ 1 K-TAG case
If any items are missing, please contact Alientech Srl by writing an email at info@alientech.to,
providing your Customer Code and Serial Number of the tool, or your dealer providing the Serial
Number of the tool.
Always keep the original packaging. In case of repair, the tool must be returned in its suitcase,
complete with all accessories.
12
Version 1.01
1 AC Adaptor connector
2 Status LEDs
The blue LED (ECU/ON, top) lights up when the tool is communicating with the ECU. The orange LED (KEY/ON,
bottom) lights up when the tool simulates Key on/Key off.
3 Status LEDs
The red LED (POWER, top) lights up when the tool is connected to AC Adaptor. The green LED (DATA, bottom) lights
up when the tool is connected to the computer through the USB cable.
4 USB port
To connect the tool to the computer.
13
Version 1.01
Note: When installing K-Suite, you may be required to install additional software, such as
Microsoft Visual C++ 2005 SP1 Redistributable Pack. In the event that this request
appears, follow the on-screen instructions to install any additional software.
1. Select the language to use the software, and download any proposed updates.
2. When installation is complete, close the K-Suite software.
14
Version 1.01
An active e-mail address is required to validate the registration. All fields are
required.
After registering, a validation e-mail with the password to access the Alientech Data Bank
https://databank.alientech.to/ is sent to the address provided. At first login you will be prompted
to set a new password.
The registration of the tool is required to activate the tool, the warranty and make use of the
online services associated with K-TAG.
In case of changing the email address or phone number provided, it is possible to replace these
data by accessing the section Your Profile of the Alientech Data Bank.
Please note: for safety reasons, the tool will only work in the country indicated during
registration. In case you need to work in a different country, please contact our technical
support service through Ticket Portal. it is possible to enable up to a maximum of five different
nations.
15
Version 1.01
1 Info Button
To view information about the tool and its owner, and download the LOG file with the last activities performed by the
tool.
2 Options Button
To set the window size and the language of K-Suite software, and display the vehicle list.
3 Help Button
To download the Operating Manuals dedicated to the various protocols.
4 Protocols Button
To view and select the protocol list partitioned by set.
5 Vehicles buttons
To view and select the vehicle to work on.
Info, Help, Protocols and Vehicles buttons are only active when the tool is connected to the
computer.
16
Version 1.01
It is possible to change the window size of the K-Suite software at any time, even if the tool is
not connected to your computer and / or the computer does have an active Internet
connection..
17
Version 1.01
1. Click on the Options button in the main window of the K-Suite software.
2. In the Language pane, click Select.
3. Select the language you want to use the K-Suite software.
It is possible to change the language of the K-Suite software at any time, even if the tool is not
connected to your computer and / or the computer does have an active Internet connection.
18
Version 1.01
1. Click on the Options button in the main window of the K-Suite software.
2. In the Available vehicles pane, click View.
3. Select the Brand of the vehicle.
4. Select the Model of the vehicle.
At the bottom of the window, a list of all versions of the selected vehicle is then displayed. For
each version is detailed:
It is possible to consult the list of vehicles supported by K-TAG at any time, even if the tool is not
connected to your computer and / or the computer does have an active Internet connection.
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Version 1.01
1. Click on the Help button in the main window of the K-Suite software.
2. Click on Check and wait until the tool connects to the Alientech Data Bank.
3. Click on Download to download the Operating Manuals in the desired language and
depending on the package purchased.
If the green check mark is displayed, the download has been successful, otherwise click again on
Download.
It is possible to download the Operating Manuals only if the tool is connected to a computer
with an active Internet connection.
20
Version 1.01
Device type: It indicates whether the tool is in Master (M) or Slave (S) version.
FW version: It indicates the version of the Firmware installed on the tool.
Serial Number: It indicates the serial number of the tool, to report in any request to the
Technical Support Service.
Customer Code: It indicates your Customer Code, to access to the Alientech Data Bank and
report to any request to the Technical Support Service.
Group Code: It indicates the Code of the Master user associated to your Slave tool. In the
event that your tool is a Master, this coincides with the Customer Code.
Subscription Expiration Date: It indicates the expiration date of your subscription, if active.
LOG: To save on your computer the LOG file containing the last 32 activities performed by the
tool.
21
Version 1.01
The computer connected to the K-TAG must function properly and be defect-free, or it may
damage the tool. As with all electrical products, connection to defective parts, or connecting to
an electrical outlet not wired correctly, can cause a spark and start a fire.
a) Using the Vehicles buttons in the main window of the K-Suite software.
b) Using the Protocols button in the main window of the K-Suite software (recommended for
advanced users).
Vehicles buttons
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Version 1.01
23
Version 1.01
PROTOCOLS button
Click on ECU to sort the list of protocols in alphabetical order from A to Z, or click on Family to
sort the list of protocols in ascending numerical order .
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Version 1.01
It is important to keep the Operating Manuals updated: periodically check for updates,
particularly after each release of the K-Suite software (for more details refer to the section
Updating the Operating Manuals – page 33).
2 Backup – To make a full backup of the ECU data. In addition to the whole file, you can also save a file for each
component on the ECU and/or the file containing the maps for engine managements.
25
Version 1.01
5 Patch – To enable the serial programming via OBDII on some ECUs (only available for some plug-ins Tricore).
9 Maps – In some cases, if allowed by the protocol, you can see a white check box labeled “Maps”. This box allows
you to save a special file which must be used if you wish to modify the vehicle performance, on pain of improper
operation of the vehicle and a possible failure and block of the ECU.
It is possible to perform reading / writing operations even if your computer does not have an
active Internet connection..
In case of problems or if communication with the ECU is not carried out successfully, before
contacting the Technical Support Service refer to the section Troubleshooting (page 34).
Backup
1. Choose the right family by using the Vehicle buttons or the Protocols button.
2. Connect to the ECU following the connection instructions provided in the Operating Manual.
3. Click Read to get a backup file of all ECU data.
As first step, even before read/write the single components of the ECU, you should always
make a backup copy of the ECU. After the Backup, the K-Suite software in addition to saving the
whole backup file, will also propose you to save separate files for each single component so
that you do not need to re-read the ECU.
Read
4. Choose the right family by using the Vehicle buttons or the Protocols button.
1. Connect to the ECU following the connection instructions provided in the Operating Manual.
2. Remove the check mark from the Backup box.
3. Choose the component you want to read.
4. Click Read.
26
Version 1.01
Restore
1. Choose the right family by using the Vehicle buttons or the Protocols button.
2. Connect to the ECU following the connection instructions provided in the Operating Manual.
3. Click Write to restore the backup file to the ECU.
Write
1. Choose the right family by using the Vehicle buttons or the Protocols button.
2. Connect to the ECU following the connection instructions provided in the Operating Manual.
3. Remove the check mark from the Restore box.
4. Choose the component to which you want to write the modified file.
5. Click Write.
It is only possible to write the components shown in green. In case you want to write only on
the engine management files, refer to the component with “Maps” written next to it or, when
available, check the white box Maps.
27
Version 1.01
4. Select Decode and wait for the loading of the file in the database.
The backup file received from your Slave is thus decoded and split into single files for the
components of the ECU (Micro file, EEPROM file and Flash file). You can use these files in the
Original Slave File box (on the left, on a green background).
If the Download File buttons are not enabled, the file containing the data for that component is
not present in the encoded file received from your Slave.
In case the map zone is shared between Flash and Micro, there is only one file
called Maps File. When available, always download the Maps File and use it to
perform the mapping of the vehicle. If Maps File is not available, use the files of
the single components.
28
Version 1.01
5. In the Original Slave File box (on the left, on a green background), click on Download File to
save the file on your computer.
For example, to save the Micro file click on Download Micro File.
To decode a new file, select Clear Cache and repeat the above procedure from step n. 3.
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Version 1.01
4. Select Decode and wait for the loading of the file in the database.
5. In the Modified Slave File box, (on the right, on an orange background), click on Browse
next to the desired component and select the modified file to send to your Slave.
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Version 1.01
You have to load one file at a time: for each component you have to click on Browse and then
on Load File before moving on to the next component.
8. If in the backup file to send to your Slave you wish to include the original file of the
component, click on the button next to the component to be added to the modified
file. To remove a file from the modified file, click on the button.
Example of an EEPROM original file loaded in the modified Slave file (left)
9. Click on Create Modified Slave File to encode the file to send to your Slave and save it on
your computer.
To encode a new file, select Clear Cache and repeat the above procedure from step n. 3.
31
Version 1.01
Notice
During a download/update:
DO NOT unplug the Usb cable
DO NOT turn off your computer
The time taken to download updates may vary depending on your Internet
connection and traffic on the band of Alientech Data Bank.
1. Connect the K-TAG to your computer using the supplied USB cable.
2. Start the K-Suite software and do not press SKIP on the loading screen of the software.
1. Follow any onscreen instructions.
2. Wait until the update is complete.
K-Suite software updates, available for free for any owner of K-TAG.
Updates to the protocols enabled at the time of purchase of the tool, available for free
even after expiration of your subscription.
New protocols developed and distributed by Alientech Srl, available only for users with an
active subscription.
32
Version 1.01
It is important to periodically check if new Operating Manuals have been released and / or
updated. To check the availability of new Operating Manuals and download them:
If the green check mark is displayed it means that the manuals are updated; if there is no green
check mark, click on Download to download the latest manuals
Always check the availability of new Operating Manuals and possibly download
them after an update of the K-Suite software.
The Operating Manuals can be download free of charge by all the owners of K-TAG, even if
there is no subscription active.
33
Version 1.01
The K-Suite software does not recognize If the red LED is not lit, check that the tool
the tool is correctly connected to your computer
with the supplied USB cable.
Make sure that the USB cable is not
damaged, and if possible try again using
another suitable USB cable.
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Version 1.01
35
Version 1.01
36
Version 1.01
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Version 1.01
For the purchase of cables and accessories, purchase and activation of single Families or packages
of Families, subscriptions or renewal, please contact our Sales Department:
By mail info@alientech.to
By phone (+39) 0161 801025
By mail support@alientech.to
assistenza@alientech.to
drivers@alientech.to
By phone (+39) 0161 801025
38
Version 1.01
Accessories available for communication with ECUs of the group BDM Motorola MPC5xx
Accessories available for communication with ECUs of the group JTAG Nexus MPC5xxx
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Version 1.01
Accessories available for communication with ECUs of the group JTAG Renesas SH705x
Accessories available for communication with ECUs of the group Bootloader Infineon Tricore -
ST10Fxxx
Adapter board for positioning frame on BOSCH ECUs equipped with ST10Fxxx
14AM00T03M
microprocessor
14P600KT04 Adapter board for positioning frame on BOSCH ECUs equipped with Infineon
Tricore microprocessor
Accessories available for communication with ECUs of the group BDM Motorola 68000HC
Accessories available for communication with ECUs of the group Bootloader Renesas M32R
40
Version 1.01
The accessories listed on this guide may be subject to change without notice. In order to have
an updated list of accessories it is always advisable to refer to our website www.alientech.to.
41
Version 1.01
DB15 Connector
ICD26 Connector
Interface
Power Socket
USB 2.0 connector
Windows Vista 32bit and 64bit, Windows 7 32bit and
Compatible Operating Systems
64bit, Windows 8 32bit and 64bit
256 MB RAM
USB port
Minimum System Requirements Active Internet connection for installation and subsequent
updates of the software (communication with the ECU is
available also offline)
Power supply AC - DC Adaptor 12.0 V
Approx. cm. 18 x 10,8 x 3,5 / 7.08 x 4.25 x 1.37 in (width ×
External dimensions depth × height)
Weight Approx. 300 g / 10.58 oz.
Operating temperature 5°C - 35°C / 41°F - 95°F
AC Adaptor
42
Version 1.01
Alientech Srl warrants to the original purchaser that the hardware of the Product shall be free
from defects in assembly, or defect that can be otherwise attributable to Alientech Srl, for a period
of two (2) years from the date of purchase, provided that the hardware is used in accordance
with the instructions provided in this guide and the Operating Manuals integrated into the K-Suite
software.
To enable the warranty, you must register the tool as described in the section Tool
registration (page 15).
You shall report to Alientech Srl, on pain of forfeiture of the Product warranty, any hardware
defects covered under warranty within 15 (fifteen) days from their discovery, by registered mail
with acknowledgment of receipt or by certified e-mail, stating the reasons of your complaint.
You may ask Alientech Srl, at your own choice, the repair or replacement of the Product
purchased, unless the solution you propose is impossible or too onerous.
Alientech Srl shall repair or replace the Product within a reasonable time and without causing you
significant inconvenience.
If repair or replacement are impossible or too onerous, or Alientech Srl has failed to accomplish
the repair or replacement within a reasonable time, or has caused you significant inconvenience,
you can ask for an adequate price reduction or rescission of the purchase contract and refund of
your money.
Under no circumstances will the amount reimbursed be higher than that paid for the purchase of
the product.
A minor defect shall not give you, under any circumstances, right to cancel the purchase contract.
In case of repair or replacement of the Product, the Warranty Period shall not be extended.
Without derogating from the foregoing, Alientech Srl, its subsidiaries and affiliates shall under
no circumstances be liable to the user for any loss, damage, claim or cost of any kind, including
any special, indirect, incidental or consequential damages or loss of profits or earnings, resulting
from the interruption of your business, personal injury or breach of duty of care, or third-party
claims, even if a representative of Alientech Srl has been advised of the possibility of such loss,
damage, claim or cost.
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Version 1.01
This warranty does not apply to a Product that, upon inspection, Alientech Srl determines it is
defective, damaged or non-conforming due to external causes, including – but not limited to –
accident, abuse, misuse, alteration, negligence, improper installation, problems with electrical
power, interference with other hardware or software, usage not in accordance with the
information and precautions described in the user’s guide and / or documentation provided by
Alientech.
The RMA form shall always be included in the package with the tool. In addition, the tool must be
returned in his suitcase, complete with all its accessories.
Alientech Srl reserves the right not to inspect and / or repair tools that are not accompanied by
the RMA form filled out in all its parts.
Software License
All the rights to the hardware and software (including, without limitation, any images,
photographs, animations, video, audio, music, text, "applets", update) constituting the Product,
the accompanying printed materials, as well as the graphical layout of packaging of the Product
are owned by Alientech Srl and are protected by Italian and International laws on the subject.
All the documentation provided with the K-Suite software (including but not limited to Operating
Manuals, user’s guides and instruction manuals) is subject to copyright and may not be copied,
photographed, reproduced, translated or reduced on electronic media, in whole or in part,
without the prior written permission of Alientech Srl.
All rights to the Product and what accompanies it, or complete it, that are not expressly granted to
you in this manual are exclusive property of Alientech Srl.
Your use of the Hardware and Software shall not give you any rights or claims of any kind on them.
You shall provide your full cooperation, where there was need, in order to ascertain Alientech
ownership rights, meeting all obligations and fulfilling all formalities that may be appropriate for a
better protection of Alientech rights.
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Version 1.01
Making unauthorized copies of the K-Suite software or circumventing copy protection technology
contained in it is illegal. Users declare to be knowledgeable of such facts and will not claim
otherwise in the event of a violation of the this License.
The K-Suite software is licensed non-exclusively and non-transferable, but not sold.
You shall use the K-Suite software in accordance with the purpose for which it has been
manufactured and marketed, and in respect of the recommendations for use and technical
specifications provided by Alientech Srl, and to the extent set forth in this License.
You are expressly forbidden to sell the Hardware and / or the Software covered by this user’s
guide, for any reason whatsoever, to any third party.
You are also forbidden to copy, reproduce, distribute, disclose, make available for any reason, or
allow the use of the K-Suite software, as well as to disassemble, decompile, reverse engineer,
alter, all or in part, add or embed the K-Suite into other software except to the extent expressly
permitted by the rules in force.
Except for any warranty, condition, representation or imperative term that cannot be excluded or
limited under applicable law in your jurisdiction, Alientech Srl provides the software/firmware in
its current condition and potential defects (“AS IS”) for the exclusive use provided in and with the
Product. Alientech Srl expressly disclaims all other warranties, conditions, representations, or
terms – express or implied – as provided by law, common law, custom, usage or otherwise,
including (but not limited to) warranties of integration, merchantability, quiet enjoyment,
satisfactory quality or fitness for a particular purpose.
Alientech do not warrant and make no representation 1) that the functions included in the K-Suite
software will meet your requirements, 2) that the operation of the K-Suite software will be
correct, 3) that the K-Suite software will perform uninterrupted or error-free 4) that the K-Suite
software will not damage any other software or hardware you use 5) regarding the use or the
results of the use of the K-Suite software in terms of its correctness, accuracy, reliability, or
otherwise.
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Version 1.01