An SDConnect or multiplexer connects to the vehicle and forwards the data to a diagnostic laptop (e.g. with Xentry software). It serves as a communication interface between the vehicle and laptop.

Here is a device overview:

C4 (SD Connect C4)

The "SD Connect C4" is an official Mercedes-Benz diagnostic device, also called multiplexer.

• It connects to the vehicle and forwards the data to a diagnostic laptop (e.g. with Xentry software).
• Originally, the C4 was intended for classical diagnoses (via K-Line, CAN, MOST).
• Newer variants or replicas of the C4 support DOIP, although this was not originally the case.

SDConnect C4 DOIP

When talking about an SDConnect C4 DOIP, you usually think:

A version of the SD Connect C4 (original or replica) that is DOIP-enabled, i.e. supports modern Ethernet-based vehicle communication.

This is important for diagnosis of newer Mercedes vehicles from approx. 2018.

When we talk about a "SDConnect C4 DOIP" in connection with a multiplexer for Mercedes-Benz, it is a combination of terms related to diagnostic devices for Mercedes vehicles. Here is the explanation in detail:

DOIP

DOIP stands for Diagnostics over IP. This means that vehicle diagnostics do not use classic protocols such as CAN, but via an IP-based network (e.g. B. Ethernet).

• Advantages: faster data transmission, necessary for modern vehicle architectures (e.g. B. MBUX, new ECUs).
• Mandatory for newer Mercedes models (e.g. from model year 2018+).

Note

• Original Mercedes-Benz DOIP multiplexers are actually the SD Connect C6 or Xentry Diagnosis VCI.
• Many C4 replicas are now advertising "DOIP support", but often this only works to a limited or unstable manner.

SDconnect C5

• Official successor of the Mercedes C4.
• Better hardware, more modern chassis.
• Supports faster Wi-Fi and newer protocols, but no real DoIP support.
• It is hardly used today, because DoIP support is missing from new vehicles.
• Rather rare, often only as a temporary solution.

SDconnect C6 (Benz DoIP Multiplexer)

• The current standard for Mercedes-Benz diagnostic hardware since approx. 2020.
• Full DoIP support, also for the latest models (e.g. B. MRA2, NTG7, EVA2 platforms).
• Compatible with Xentry, DAS, Vediamo, DTS Monaco.
• Supports both classic CAN/K-Line and IP-based diagnostics.
• Also supports latest features such as online coding, Flashing via DoIP.
• Significantly more expensive than C4, but necessary for newer vehicles.

VXDIAG Benz C6

• Third-party multiplexers with SDconnect C6-like functions.
• Provides full DoIP support.
• Often cheaper than official C6.
• Popular in the workshop and tuning scene.
• Compatible with Xentry 12.2024 and later.

Summary:

Detailed explanation for DoIP

What is DoIP?

DoIP stands for Diagnostics over Internet Protocol (diagnosis over IP).

It is a modern communication protocol used in vehicle diagnosis and programming. Instead of classic serial diagnostics via CAN or K-Line lines, the diagnosis is handled via an IP-based network protocol – in other words, similar to data is transmitted on the Internet.

Why do you need DoIP?

• Modern vehicles are more complex and have many ECUs that are connected via Ethernet.
• The classic diagnostic interfaces (CAN, K-Line) reach their limits when it comes to speed and data volume.
• DoIP enables faster, more stable and comprehensive communication with vehicle control units.
• Particularly important for new Mercedes models with platforms such as MRA2, EVA2, MB.OS.

Technical features of DoIP

Advantages of DoIP compared to classic protocols

• Faster error selection & programming
• Better diagnosis of complex control units
• Enables online coding & flashing in real-time
• Future-proof for upcoming vehicle models

Special features VXDIAG C6

• VXDIAG devices often provide a web-based user interface that allows you to perform firmware updates and configure WLAN.
• Many models have a USB-C cable for charging or firmware updates, but the actual diagnostic traffic runs over LAN/WLAN.

Summary Connection:

VCX SE is a diagnostic interface (VCI – Vehicle Communication Interface) used in the context of Xentry, the official diagnostic and programming tool from Mercedes-Benz.

What does this mean?

• VCX SE is a device of the brand VXDIAG, which is considered a cost-effective alternative to the original Mercedes-Benz diagnostic devices (such as e.g. B. SDconnect C4, C5 or Xentry Diagnosis Kit).
• It provides the connection between the vehicle and the diagnostic computer (e.g. B. laptop with Xentry software).
• It supports various communication protocols such as CAN, K-Line, DoIP (Diagnostics over IP) etc.

Typical functions with VCX SE in Xentry:

• Read and delete error codes (DTCs)
• Encoding or programming ECUs
• Change vehicle configuration
• Execute service functions (e.g. B. Reset service)

Important to know:

• VCX SE is not an official Mercedes-Benz device, but produced by third-party providers such as VXDIAG / Allscanner.
• It works with the official Xentry software, but not always 100% stable or complete, especially with newer vehicles or safety-related functions.
• For workshops or professionals with high demands, an original device is often better suited.

If you want to use VCX SE, pay attention to:

• Compatibility with your Xentry version
• Correct drivers and software installation (e.g. B. VX Manager)
• A stable connection via USB or WLAN

The SDconnect Toolkit is a Windows application that is used to connect between hardware (multiplexer) and laptop. It allows you to configure your SD-Connect multiplexer, perform firmware updates, view detailed information and start a self-diagnosis. Here is a version overview of the versions. The toolkit with the correct version is automatically installed with Xentry.

We do not sell hardware because it would be too costly and tricky with Swiss customs.