Pico’s universal 6-way breakout leads are designed to work with any vehicle — eliminating the need to own many specific breakout leads for engine diagnostics.

Designed to save you time and money

Pico’s universal 6-way breakout leads eliminate the need to own many specific breakout leads for engine diagnostics. The breakout leads are available with 3 different sizes of connectors allowing you to connect to virtually any sensor in the engine compartment — of any vehicle — using just 3 leads. Never again will you need to search your workshop for that expensive vehicle/sensor specific lead.

Breakout lead used to test the throttle position sensor on a BMW 316i

Easy to use

The breakout lead is simply connected into the existing cable loom and enables voltage readings to be taken from the numerous sensors in the engine compartment. The output signal can then be taken from the 4 mm banana plugs into the input of the PicoScope oscilloscope using the TA000 test lead.

Note: a TA000 will be required to convert the 4 mm banana plug connection on the Pico 6-way breakout lead into a BNC connector suitable for plugging into the PicoScope.

Connecting Pico Universal Breakout Leads

Please read these instructions before using the breakout lead. Pico Technology takes no responsibility for any damage caused through incorrect use. These leads are designed to be used by experienced/professional automotive vehicle technicians who understand the implications of incorrect use.

It may be possible to cause a short circuit to the oscilloscope unit if incorrect connections are made! A short circuit could seriously damage the unit and will require it to be repaired at the customer’s own cost.

• Ensure the ignition is switched off before removing any multiplugs
• On removal of a multiplug keep the plug straight — do not twist the plug out of alignment with its mating partner
• Always connect both the male and female terminals
• The component-only terminals may be connected if carrying out a resistance test. Ensure the ignition is switched off during the test
• Ensure each colour-matched pair of wires in the test lead is used to connect matching terminals in the male and female plugs
• Never partially connect the test leads
• Always ensure that the terminals are correctly located
• Keep test leads aways from hot components, such as the exhaust system
• Keep test leads away from moving parts, such as the alternator drive belt
• Keep test leads away from electrical cooling fans

It is recommended that the oscilloscope always has an earth (ground) connection to the unit on one of the channels. The remaining BNC connection(s) can then be used to probe the breakout lead, using a TA000 automotive test lead.