Reading tools and file formats

Which files Map Decoder can use, and what to do if your file comes from a Slave tool.

The one rule

An unencrypted original read

We look at what is inside the file, not at its name or the tool that read it.

Any file extension

.bin, .ori, .read, .dump or the name your tool gives — the extension does not matter.

Any reading tool

It does not matter which tool read the ECU, as long as the file it gives you is not encrypted.

Unencrypted and original

The file must be the unmodified read of the ECU, as plain data. Encrypted Slave files cannot be used until your Master decrypts them.

Which way does your file go?

Three paths, one destination

Your file

Master tool, or a tool without a Slave version

e.g. KESS3 Master, AutoTuner Master, FLEX Master, PCMFlash

Upload it directly

Master file in the tool's own container

e.g. CMDFlash .DAT, bFlash .bdc, Dimsport

Export it as plain data with the tool's own software

File read with a Slave tool

Encrypted to your Master — e.g. .slave, .mmf, .sbdc

Send it to your Master
Your Master decrypts it and sends back the original
Upload to Map Decoder
Tool by tool

What to do with your tool's files

Find your tool in the list. The colours match the paths above.

  • Upload directly
  • Export, then upload
  • Your Master must decrypt it
  • No Slave version
Tool File read with a Master File read with a Slave
Alientech KESS3 / K-TAG / KESS V2 File read with a MasterUpload directly File read with a SlaveYour Master must decrypt it
AutoTuner File read with a MasterUpload directlyIf the backup is a .zip, upload the memory file inside it. File read with a SlaveYour Master must decrypt it.slave
Magicmotorsport FLEX File read with a MasterUpload directly File read with a SlaveYour Master must decrypt it.mmf / .mmf2
CMDFlash File read with a MasterExport, then uploadUse “export” in the CMD software. File read with a SlaveYour Master must decrypt it.DAT
bFlash File read with a MasterExport, then uploadSplit the .bdc into memory files with bFlash File Splitter. File read with a SlaveYour Master must decrypt it.sbdc
Dimsport New Genius / New Trasdata File read with a MasterExport, then uploadExport it with DS Manager. File read with a SlaveYour Master must decrypt it
PCMFlash File read with a MasterUpload directly File read with a SlaveNo Slave version
Foxflash, ByteShooter, Autoflasher, MPPS File read with a MasterUpload directly File read with a SlaveYour Master must decrypt it

Tools without a Slave version: if your tool has no Master/Slave split, the files it reads are not encrypted and can be uploaded directly.

Slave tool?

How to use a file read with a Slave tool

A Slave tool encrypts every read to the Master it is linked to. Only that Master can decrypt it — not us, and not any other software. This is the tool makers' rule.

  1. 1

    Send the read to your Master

    Send the file exactly as your Slave tool saved it.

  2. 2

    Ask for the decrypted original

    Your Master decrypts it and sends you back the original read, unmodified.

  3. 3

    Upload it to Map Decoder

    Select your ECU in the app and open the file as usual.

Reading method

Full reads give the best results

How the ECU was read decides how much of it is in the file.

Full read

Boot / BDM

Always a full read of the ECU. The best choice.

Usually full

Bench

In most cases a full read as well.

Sometimes partial

OBD

Depending on the ECU, a full read or only the calibration area. With a calibration-only read the ECU may not be identified, or some modifications may not be found.

Factory file

Virtual read

Instead of reading the ECU, the tool downloads the factory file for your software version from its maker's database. It can usually be used as the original.

Good to know

Before you upload

  • Text formats: Intel HEX and Motorola S19 (S-record) files are not read. Convert them to binary first.
  • Closed formats: files from tools that only save in their own closed format, such as HP Tuners (.hpt) or EcuTek, cannot be used.
  • From WinOLS or other software: export the original read as plain data, not as a project file.
  • File size: up to 20 MB.

This page is based on information published by the tool makers. Brand names belong to their owners and do not imply any partnership or endorsement. If your tool is not listed or you are not sure, contact us before ordering.

Not sure about your file?

Write to us with the name of your tool and how you read the ECU.

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