Installation Guide

V3.3

OSS Online Service System

BMW Group

Page 2

Documentation OSS

of 30

1 Introduction

OSS - Online Service System

The OSS has been developed specifically for independent automotive workshops to provide
an extensive range of resources. The following applications are now available:

ISTA Diagnosis Application

Vehicle diagnostics from the Z3/E36, with the BMW ICOM, or with a J2534
pass-thru tool (from model year 1996).
Display of technical information:

Automated Test Plans

Repair Instructions (E30 or higher)
Technical Data
Tightening torques
Wiring diagrams
Pin assignments
Installation locations
Connector views
Functional descriptions

You can search using document title, document number and subject areas
as the search criteria. The desired information is displayed by means of
graphics and explanatory text.

Web ISTA Information Application

WebISTA has been developed to provide an information only application for
users that do not require all of the services included in the ISTA diagnostics
application.

Repair Instructions (E30 or higher)

Technical Data
Tightening torques
Wiring diagrams
Pin assignments
Installation locations
Connector views
Functional descriptions

You can search using document title, document number and subject areas
as the search criteria. The desired information is displayed by means of
graphics and explanatory text.
Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group

Page 3

Documentation OSS

of 30

Web KSD Labor Time Guide

With Web KSD, you can view the number of flat rate units corresponding to
each repair. Based on the vehicle identification number or by selecting the
series and model, you can view the flat rate unit data for defined scopes of
repair work for each BMW Group vehicle.
You can call up information about approved wheel/tire combinations for
models from E36 or later.
Approved wheel/tire combinations

Summer and winter tire recommendations

Styling presentation of the wheels
Snow chain recommendations

ISTA/P Online - Control Module Reprogramming

With ISTA/P you can reprogram the onboard control modules that are
capable of software reprogramming.
For ISTA/P, a data interface, a power supply and an Internet connection are
required. The data interface can be a BMW Group ICOM interface or a
"Pass-Thru Tool (PTT)" that fulfills the requirements of the SAE J2534
standard.

P code Lookup Application

The P code module allows you to search for standard SAE P codes and
BMW-specific P codes, which you can read out from the engine control units
using a generic scan tool. The P code module is especially helpful for users
who do not own BMW-specific diagnosis systems, but read out fault codes
using a generic scan tool. The corresponding P code can be read out via the
vehicle identification number.

Technical Support
Technical support for software installation or operation is available 24/7 by
submitting a support request via the technical support contact link.

Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group

Page 4

Documentation OSS

of 30

1.1 Meaning of the Symbols Used

This user guide, the following symbols have the following meanings:
WARNUNG
"Warning" icon is used for reporting on actions that can result in personal injury.

ATTENTION
"Warning" icon is used for reporting on actions that can lead to property damage.

NOTE
The symbol "Note" indicates text passages which are assigned a special importance.

INFORMATION
The icon "INFORMATION" indicates additional documentation.

1.2 Important Safety Information

Before using the OSS, you should familiarize yourself with the applicable safety requirements and
then follow the indications of this guide.
Warning
Specific functions in ISTA can trigger activation of components in the connected
vehicle. Controlling components shall ensure that no person is in the danger zone. The
General safety regulations must be observed.

Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group

Page 5

Documentation OSS

of 30

2 Overview of the Online Service System for BMW Service and

MINI Service (OSS)
The OSS consists of a desktop or laptop PC connected to BMW over the Internet. To connect to the
vehicle you can use the BMW authorized diagnostic interface "integrated communication optical
module (ICOM)" or use a J2534 "Pass Thru Tool (PTT)".
To start, you must download software components from the OSS portal and install on the PC. Then
the PC works as a client with the servers at BMW. An offline mode is not possible.
Note
Connection to OSS works only on PCs where no proxy connections are used.

PC

ICOM
Network Card
Required

RJ45

USB

BMW

ICOM
Figure 2.1

PTT

Overview: ISTA-Workshop System

Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group

Page 6

Documentation OSS

of 30

2.1.1 Integrated Communication Optical Module (ICOM)

The ICOMs are the interfaces for the repair of BMW and MINI vehicles recommended by BMW. The
ICOM is specifically designed for BMW and MINI vehicles. The ICOM incorporates powerful
processors and a high storage capacity. This allows for faster communication than with a PTT.

There are three different ICOM components available. These can handle all vehicles of the BMW
Group:

ICOM A for OBD communication

ICOM B, in combination with the ICOM A, for MOST communication
ICOM C, in combination with the ICOM A, for 20 PIN diagnostic connector.

2.1.1.1 Connection of the ICOM to Vehicle

Note
Before connecting ICOM to the vehicle switch on ignition (Terminal 15).

ICOM OBD-Connection
Connect the ICOM to the network port on the PC first. No additional equipment or switch between
the ICOM and computer can be used. Then connect the ICOM to the vehicle OBD connector
ICOM MOST-Connection
Connect the ICOM to the network port on the PC first. Then use the supplied USB cable to connect
the ICOM A to ICOM B. Connect the ICOM A to the vehicle OBD connector followed by connection
the ICOM B to the vehicle MOST access port.
ICOM 20 Pin connection
Connect the ICOM to the network port on the PC first. Then connect the ICOM C to the ICOM A.
Finally, connect the ICOM C to the vehicle 20 Pin diagnostic connector.
2.1.1.2 ICOM Detection by the PC
It can take up to 15 minutes before an ICOM is detected after the connection to the PC. It is
advisable to connect the ICOM immediately after boot up of the PC, and then start OSS .

Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group

Page 7

Documentation OSS

of 30

2.1.2 Pass Thru Tool (PTT)

If a PTT is to be used it must meet the standard SAE J2534.
Attention
A wireless connection between the PTT and PC must not be used. A momentary
interruption of traffic can cause irreparable damage to ECUs.

Working with a PTT, two drivers are required: The BMW PTT driver and the PTT
manufacturer specific driver.

The required BMW PTT driver is in the OSS download area. Contact the PTT manufacturer
for driver information. The latest drivers must always be used.

2.1.2.1 BMW specific Adapter and Cable

Older vehicles may require additional adapters for vehicle diagnosis/programming.
Some PTT manufacturers make such adapters available.
BMW 20 Pin Adapter
Some older vehicles have a Round, 20-pin diagnostic connector located in the engine
compartment. Utilization of this connector is required for proper communication.
The following vehicles need the 20 pin adapter:

323i Sedan from MY 1998, 323i Coupe/Cabrio from MY 1999

328i, 330i from MY 1998, 328i, 330i Coupe/Cabrio from MY 1999
528i, 530i, from MY 1998
540i from MY 1997
740i from MY 1997
M3 Coupe/Cabrio from MY 1999
M Roadster/Coupe from MY 2000
Z3 Roadster 2.8/3.0 from MY 1998
X5 from MY 2001

BMW 7-8 Pin Adapter

Some vehicles require pins 7-8 of the OBD connector to be bridged for vehicle
communication. Some PTT manufacturers provide an adapter.

Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group
Documentation OSS

Page 8
of 30

Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group

Page 9

Documentation OSS

of 30

2.1.2.2 Connection of the PTT to the Vehicle

First connect the PTT USB cable directly to your computer and then connect the PTT to the
vehicle.
Do not use a USB hub for this connection!
2.1.2.3 Vehicle not supported by PTT Use
The following vehicles cannot communicate with the PTT:

E31
E34
E36 (318i)

Diagnostics/programming is possible with the OSS and ICOM.

2.2 Power Supply

Attention
Programming failures or module damage can occur without stable power supply.

Vehicles from series E65 (from 11 / 2001) can not be programmed without an external power
supply. Power supply/ battery chargers with following specifications and settings are
required :
F Series and E Series with "Efficient Dynamic": The set maximum voltage rating of 14.8
volts battery charging mode must not be exceeded. With the Chargers (e.g. "DBL1200",
"DBL1600", "MultiCharger 1500") use the battery charging mode for programming.
E Series without "Efficient Dynamic": Chargers (such as "DBL800", "MultiCharger 750")
with microprocessor-controlled monitoring and adjustment of the current of the vehicle can
be used. FSV mode (non-power supply, to ensure a constant power supply during a
programming). Do not exceed the maximum voltage of 14.2 volts. If necessary an
adjustment of the loading parameters is necessary.
Please refer to BMW Service Bulletin B04 23 10 or MINI Service Bulletin M04 08 09 for
more details and a listing of approved chargers required for programming.
All approved chargers may be purchased from API International at 1-512-280-4391

2.3 Internet Connection

Programming faults can occur without a stable Internet connection. All work using the OSS requires
a stable Internet connection. Some sessions may, depending on internet connection speed and
vehicle condition, last several hours and transfer a data volume of several hundred megabytes. The
ISP should ensure that the IP is not changed during the session.

Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group

Page 10

Documentation OSS

of 30

2.4 Website Subscription and Refund Policy

Subscription payment for the website is handled by PayPal, not BMW NA. The payment process is
subject to PayPals terms and conditions and privacy policy. BMW NA is not responsible for your
transaction with PayPal, except to ensure youre your account will be properly created once you
have paid in full. BMW NA receives your name and contact information from PayPal after you submit
payment, but does not handle or have access to your financial information.

In the event that you desire a refund or credit please note the following BMW NA
policies apply:

One day subscriptions are non-refundable unless a technical support ticket has
been submitted for a software issue.

BMW NA provides additional website access at no cost if needed for our

technical support staff to resolve an issue. Refund requests will be denied if a
subscription is purchased for technical support related matters.

Monthly and yearly subscriptions may be refunded at BMWs discretion.

The amount of any refund or credit will be reduced by the total value of the
subscription period divided by the value of the total number of days remaining in
the customer's current subscription.

Refunds will not be granted after the expiration date of the original paid
subscription.

For concerns related to account access or operation please contact

tech@bmwna.com

Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group

Page 11

Documentation OSS

of 30

3 Installation of the OSS Software

3.1 Technical Requirements
In order to use the Online Service System (OSS), the following technical requirements must
be met (as of: 05.01.2014).

3.1.1. Network/internet connection

Internet connection with a bandwidth of at least 2 Mbit/s

For optimum performance, a maximum latency of 100 ms to the OSS server is
recommended
It must be ensured that the IP address does not change during the session

3.1.2. Hardware
To install and use the BMW Service Tools, a device that meets the following requirements is
needed:

At least 2 GB of main memory

CPU better than Pentium IV with a minimum clock frequency of 2 GHz
At least 80 GB of free hard drive space
At least a 15" monitor, 1024 x 768 pixel resolution, 256 colours
Keyboard and mouse (or similar input devices)
Network connection to connect to the internet
USB connection port for a suitable Vehicle Communication Interfaces (VCI)

For in-vehicle diagnosis and programming you will need one of the following Vehicle
Communication Interfaces (VCI):

ICOM (recommended by BMW)

o To connect the ICOM to a PC, an additional network connection is required
Pass-through tool (PTT), which must be SAE-J2534-compatible (e.g. manufacturers:
Drew Technologies, I+ME ACTIA)
o Depending on the manufacturer's specifications, a free interface (e.g. RS232 or
USB) may be required to connect the PTT
o You will need the proprietary PTT driver from the manufacturer, installed
according to the OSS user guide
o Before purchasing a PC/operating system, please also check the technical
requirements of your PTT manufacturer (e.g. there are some PTTs that are not
compatible with Windows 7 Professional 64-bit)
o PTTs should not be connected via Bluetooth

Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group

Page 12

Documentation OSS

3.2

of 30

Operating system & additional software requirements

3.2.1 In order to use the Online Service System (OSS), one of the following operating
systems is required:

Microsoft Windows 7 Professional/Enterprise (32-bit) with Service Pack 1 or

Microsoft Windows 7 Professional/Enterprise (64-bit) with Service Pack 1

3.2.2 In addition to the operating system, the following software must be installed before
you can use the applications:

JAVA - The following requirements must be met:

Compatibility with the operating system you are using (e.g. Java 64-bit with
Windows 7 Professional 64-bit)
When using a PTT: Compatibility with the PTT driver in accordance with the
manufacturer's specifications (e.g. Java 32-bit only in connection with a 32-bit
PTT driver)
You will need one of the following Java versions depending on your operating
system:
o Java 32-bit with runtime environment JRE 6 Update 31 or higher or
Java-64-bit with runtime environment JRE 7 or higher

Compatibility with the operating system must be observed when carrying out the
Java download

To avoid incompatibilities, we recommend deactivating the automatic JAVA

update function (e.g. when using Java 32-bit with Windows 7 Professional 64bit)

Microsoft .NET - The following requirements must be met:

Compatibility with the operating system you are using

Microsoft .NET Framework from Version 4.0

3.2.3 The use of a virtual machine or virtual environment software is not supported.

Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group

Page 13

Documentation OSS

3.3

of 30

Internet Browser

One of the following browsers is required:

Internet Explorer 9, 10, 11

Google Chrome 31
Firefox 25
o For Mozilla Firefox the following Add-ons are also required:
FFClickOnce
Microsoft .NET Framework Assistant

3.3.1 Firewall Settings

Requirement for using the Diagnosis and Information System (ISTA):
If there is a packet filter or a firewall, the following port must be enabled for the network card
for the internet: Port 443 TCP outgoing and a default routing must exist in the direction of the
internet.
In the event that your local proxy setting does not permit access to a name server, you must
manually enable the IP addresses for OSS. To do so, open the file
C:\WINDOWS\system32\drivers\etc\hosts and insert the below information at the end of
the file:
170.34.100.20
3gio-app-us.bmw.com
160.50.252.2
www.bmwtechinfo.com
160.50.245.187
aos-oas.bmwgroup.com
Requirement for using an ICOM:
The following ports must be activated in the firewall for the network card for the ICOM:

Port 80 TCP
Port 23011 TCP
Port 23012 TCP
Port 427 UDP
Port 11352 UDP

Otherwise the connection to the ICOM will fail.

Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group

Page 14

Documentation OSS

of 30

3.4 Settings
To avoid problems during the vehicle session, it is necessary to make changes to "Display
Properties" and "Power".

3.4.1

Display and screen saver properties

To set the display properties, proceed as follows:

"Start > Settings > Control Panel > Display"

The "Display Properties" dialogue box is displayed.

Select the "Screen Saver" index tab

Select "(None)" as the screen saver

Acknowledge with "OK".

Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group

Page 15

Documentation OSS

3.4.2

of 30

Power management

To set the power options properties, proceed as follows:

"Start > Settings > Control Panel > Display"

The "Display Properties" dialogue box is displayed.

Select the "Screen Saver" index tab

Select "Power"

The "Power Options Properties" are displayed.

Select the "Power Schemes" index tab

Select the "Always On" power scheme
Acknowledge with "OK".

NOTE
Always use an A/C adapter when using a laptop. Never program the vehicle in battery
mode.

Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group
Documentation OSS

3.4.3

Page 16
of 30

Automatic updates

Turn off Automatic Updates during programming. To set the "Automatic Updates" properties,
proceed as follows:"Start > Settings > Control Panel > Automatic Updates"

The "Automatic Updates" dialogue box is displayed.

3.4.4

Select "Turn off Automatic Updates"

Acknowledge with "OK"
Turn on "Automatic Updates" after programming.
Browser settings

To ensure that installation of the individual components can be run, it is necessary to make some
following chapters for the required settings to the corresponding browser. Dialogue boxes may be
displayed during installation. These must be observed and acknowledged.
3.4.5

Turning off pop-up blocker

Be sure to turn off the pop-up blocker included with your browser.

Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group
Documentation OSS

3.4.6

Page 17
of 30

Security settings

To set the security settings properties, proceed as follows:

Select "Tools > Internet Options"

The "Internet Options" dialogue box is displayed.

Select the "Security" index tab

In the "Security level for this zone" box, select "Custom Level"

The Security Settings dialogue box is displayed.

"Enable" the following settings in ".NET Framework-reliant components":

Run components signed with Authenticode

Run components not signed with Authenticode
Acknowledge "OK"

Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group
Documentation OSS

3.4.7

Page 18
of 30

Certificates

To set the certificates properties, proceed as follows:

Select "Tools > Internet Options"

The "Internet Options" dialogue box is displayed.

Select the "Content" index tab

In the Certificates field, select "Certificates"

The Certificates dialogue box is displayed.

Select the "Trusted Root Certification Authorities" index tab

Select the "TC TrustCenter Class 2 CA" certificate
Select "View"

The "Certificate" dialogue box is displayed.

Select the "Details" index tab

Select "Edit Properties"

Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group

Page 19

Documentation OSS

of 30

The "Certificate Properties" dialogue box is displayed.

Insert a check/tick symbol in the "Code Signing" selection box

Acknowledge with "OK".

NOTE
Firewall software information may be displayed if a firewall is used. Observe and
acknowledge such information.

3.4.8

Activating Security Certificate Mozilla Firefox

To set the Activate Security Certificate properties:

In the Options window select the Advanced tab

In the Certificates field, select View Certificates

The available certificates are displayed.

Select the TC TrustCenter Class 2 CA certificate and select Edit

Check all three boxes

Select OK
Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group

Page 20

Documentation OSS

4.

of 30

OSS Software Installation Process

Once you have determined your PC meets the system requirements and you have made the
required browser settings changes listed above in Section 3 you can start the installation of the OSS
software. The installation procedure consists of two steps:
The first step is the Installation of the required software packages:

Install manufacturer-specific PTT driver*

BMW PTT driver download and install*
BMW ICOM Firmware**
OMS driver download and install
ISTA client download und install
KSD client download and install
ISTA/P Online Installation
*Not required for ICOM use
** Only for ICOM users
NOTE
Installation of the above software must be completed in the order listed above.

The final step is to complete the software installation via the Internet for:

ISTA/P
ISTA
KSD

All OSS software and applications are found under the OSS menu of the website

Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group

Page 21

Documentation OSS

of 30

NOTE
If your PC has anti-virus or firewall software installed, you must allow access to the
Internet during installation and operation.

NOTE
Always use the current PTT driver for programming. Install the latest PTT driver before
performing module reprogramming.

4.1.1 Manufacturer Specific PTT Driver * Not required for ICOM interface users
Install the PTT driver according to manufacturer instructions. This can be obtained from the PTT
manufacturer.
4.1.2 BMW PassThruD (bmwptt.exe) installation
The BMW PassThruD driver is required when using the PTT diagnostic interface.
The driver can be found on either the ISTA or ISTA/P Start page at the bottom of the screen.

Save and run the installation file.

Verification: it is made the following entry in Control Panel, "Software":

Copyright BMW 2014

BMW Group

Page 22

Documentation OSS

4.1.3

of 30

Select PTT drivers (Default PTT) * Not required for ICOM interface users

Using PTTs from various manufacturers requires the appropriate device driver to be selected.
To select the vendor-specific driver, do the following:

Navigate to Start > All Programs >BMW PassThru_* > PassThruD

The current selected driver will be shown:

4.2.0

Choose the appropriate driver and confirm with "OK".

OMS (OMS-OSS.msi) Installation

The OMS installation file can be found on the ISTA/P Start page at the bottom of the screen.

Save and run the installation file. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the
installation.

Copyright BMW 2014

4.3.0 ICOM Firmware Installation * Not Required for J2534 Pass Thru Users

Download the ICOM firmware software from the ISTA/P Start page

Save and run the installation file. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the
installation.
4.4.0

ISTA/P Installation
Click the ISTA/P link found under the OSS menu

BMW Group

Page 24

Documentation OSS

of 30

When the "Status" box changes to green, select "Start

Once "Start" has been acknowledged, the "Launching Application" dialogue window is
displayed.

First start of ISTA/P Online

When ISTA/P Online is started for the first time the .NET application "ClientChecker" is
downloaded. The ClientChecker checks the system requirements, and installs and starts
ISTA/P Online.
The ClientChecker dialogue box is displayed.

Acknowledge "Run ClickOnce Application". The application is started.

A security warning is displayed.

Acknowledge "Run". The ISTA/P ClientChecker is installed and started.

Copyright BMW of North

America 2014

BMW Group

Page 25

Documentation OSS

of 30

ISTA/P Online is started

After the ClientChecker has been installed or if ISTAP Online has already been started once, the
ISTA/P Online ClientChecker dialogue box is displayed.

ISTA/P Online is initialized, installed and started.

Windows security warnings

During installation several ISTA/P Online programs are blocked by the Windows firewall.

To run ISTA/P Online, select "Unblock" for the following programs:

Castor
Idmon
ISOMInstance
Pollux
TaurusAdministration
TaurusClient
TaurusServer
TaurusServices
TDSServer

Note: The above-mentioned programs are required during vehicle programming. They communicate
during vehicle programming via local network ports. If you change these, the Windows security
warnings are repeated. Select "Unblock" again.

Copyright BMW of North

America 2014

BMW Group

Page 26

Documentation OSS

4.5.0

of 30

ISTA Installation
Download the ISTA software installer from the ISTA Start page

Save and run the installation file. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the
installation.

Copyright BMW of North

America 2014

BMW Group

Page 27

Documentation OSS

of 30

4.5.1 Important setup step for ISTA

After first starting ISTA you will first have to choose your vehicle interface (ICOM/PTT):
o

Click the wrench icon on the top of the ISTA window

Open the tab VCI Config and choose your vehicle interface

ISTA3 is now ready for use

Copyright BMW of North

America 2014

BMW Group

Page 28

Documentation OSS

of 30

4.5.2 To start ISTA after the initial installation:

Click the ISTA link found under the OSS menu

Wait for the status box to turn green and click Start

The ISTA dialog box will appear. Select Open

The ISTA application will open

NOTE
Installation of software components makes entries in the Windows start menu.
Start ISTA only from the OSS website link not the Windows Start menu .

Copyright BMW of North

America 2014

BMW Group

Page 29

Documentation OSS

4.6.0

of 30

KSD Client Installation

The KSD Client can be found in the KSD start page.

Save and run the installation file. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the
installation.

5.0

Frequently Asked Questions

2. How do I contact technical support?

For OSS software installation or operation issues click the Contact Technical Support
hyperlink found under the OSS menu.
Please note: This is not a vehicle repair hotline; vehicle specific repair inquiries are
not accepted. Only inquiries regarding installation or operation errors will be accepted.

For general inquiries either click the Contact Webmaster hyperlink on the homepage or
send an email inquiry to: tech@bmwna.com

For Vehicle Order, Enabling Code, or IBAC code requests:

Send an email to tech@bmwna.com with the following information:

Account Name

Email address

VIN number

Please note: OSS technical support is not available through the contact webmaster link,
or the tech@bmwna.com address.
Failure to direct your inquiry to the appropriate department will cause a delay in
response.

Copyright BMW of North

America 2014

BMW Group

Page 30

Documentation OSS

of 30

3. ISTA and or ISTA/P will not automatically ID the vehicle

Refer to section 2.1.2.1 for information regarding special adapters needed for select
older vehicles.

4. ISTA/P is requesting an activation/repair code during programming

During programming certain vehicles equipped with navigation will require an enabling code to
complete the programming session. To obtain the code the following is required:

Send an email to tech@bmwna.com with the following information:

Account Name

Email address

VIN number

5. Will my programming session end if my subscription expires?

Once you begin a programming session it will not automatically end if your subscription time
elapses. The programming session will continue until completed or ended by the user.
6. ICOM Firmware update.
Owners of the BMW Group ICOM interface will need to update the firmware when an updated
version is released.

To update your ICOM firmware to the latest version, download the ICOM Firmware file
to your Desktop and run the installer.
Once installed connect the ICOM to the PC and then to a vehicle to initiate the firmware
update
During update the ICOM LEDs will change from green to flashing red. When the process
is complete the ICOM will reboot and is ready for use.

Copyright BMW of North

America 2014