What is serial programming ?
Serial programming is a method of reprogramming the ECU (Electronic Control Unit) by means of the OBD2 diagnostic port.

Are there benefits of serial programming over
a conventional remap?
Yes. Previously the ECU would need to be removed from the vehicle, opened, and the flash memory chip removed from the circuit board. The chip would then be re-flashed and re-used, or a new chip re-soldered onto the circuit board. This poses a threat to the ECU as circuit board level soldering is difficult and often performed by non-certified or unqualified personnel in a non-controlled environment. Some companies also use primitive encryption modules that are often problematic and can fail. During this process the circuit board, processors, flash memory, and other components are exposed to ESD (Electro Static Discharge), which can harm or destroy the components or the entire ECU. With the edition of ECU security brackets in the newer cars it poses an even greater threat, as they need to be drilled out to remove the ECU. These tamper evident devices alert the dealer or inspector that unauthorised persons have removed the ECU. Serial programming is performed directly through the same diagnostic port (OBD2) that the dealer uses to communicate with your car. There is no removal of the ECU and the car stays entirely intact.

How do I switch programs ?
Programs are switched by the use of the SPS device. Having pre-selected the required program the device plugs into the OBD2 diagnostic port and gives an audible warning once the program change has taken place (typically around 3 seconds). The SPS is then removed while the new program stays resident in the ECU until switched again.