Rinda advice - Diacom vs TechMate Pro

[Yendor]

I have a 2000 model 7.4 MPI that runs a MEFI-3 ECM.

I am wanting to acquire the means to read, log and clear/reset codes.
I am under the impression after reading here that one of these Rinda pieces is the preferred option.
Are there alternatives? Am I correct thinking that a Rinda is what I want?

Reading on their website, the Diacom appears to be the laptop version of the TechMate Pro which looks to be a hand held, self contained version of the Diacom. Beyond ascertaining that little bit (which I don't know to be correct), there isn't much to go on.

All things being equal, I think I'd be inclined to run it off the laptop. But I don't know that all things are equal.
Price wise is about a push, but I only want to do this once. So am asking whoever knows more about this than I do (which may well be everybody reading this).

The question then is, which one is ultimately the more functional? and Why?
Which would be your preference, and for what reason(s)?

Any pertinent thoughts or opinions appreciated.

 

[Golfman25]

The other option is the fox marine gateways that will let you read codes via the app. I have the techmate and that is really all a shade tree mechanic needs. I think the software lets you download history and maybe do more tests and such. But you have to drag your laptop around. The techmate sits in your tool box and can be used on a moment’s notice.

 

[boatrboy]

I just bought the Diacom. I have a thread about this somewhere here. I like the ability to download and keep files of different scans on my laptop and print them. I really don’t know if the handhelds do the same so I can’t compare them. My thought was it might be easier as updates are available to download them to my laptop.

I purchased a used laptop which I have dedicated to this and had an old backpack so I load that up with the Diacom and the tools to remove the engine cover to access the connection. Its easy to store and ready to go when I need it.

Folks here have helped me interpret my scans which were easy to cut and paste from the laptop.

 

[Yendor]

Thanks for the help. I do understand the logistical advantage of being able to operate w/o the laptop. I would like to be able to archive scans over time, but it looks as if the Techmate has a USB port so that ought to be possible either way. I will call them and see what they say.

If I understand correctly, the Fox Gateway is what I would need to put the engine data on a NMEA network, but would not enable the ability to change, clear and reset codes, would it?

The NMEA network project is in the plan but will be a step or three beyond where I am now.
There are some more pressing things that need done, but am hoping to knock it all out before spring.