COMPLETE GUIDE TO FLASHING THE THINKDIAG 2 ADAPTER TO ProDiag

ThinkDiag 2 is an advanced OBD adapter. For advanced firmware versions or recovering a “stuck” device, it must be physically flashed via a programmer (ST-LINK V2 or J-Link). This guide covers the entire process—from opening the housing, connecting the programmer, flashing the firmware, to verifying the device functionality.

Note: Flashing files required for your device can be purchased here: ProDiag Boot Files

1. Opening the Housing

The ThinkDiag 2 housing is plastic, with clips holding the top and bottom together.

Steps:

  1. Remove any rubber protective cover if present.
  2. Use a thin plastic prying tool or a phone opening tool. Do not use pointed screwdrivers, as they can damage the plastic or internal components.
  3. Locate the clips in the middle of the housing. Start on the side opposite the OBD connector and carefully work around the housing until all clips are released.
  4. Once opened, the PCB with the microcontroller and programming test points will be visible.

2. Locating and Connecting Programmer Pins

On the ThinkDiag 2 PCB, there are pads or small connectors for connecting a programmer. Key pins are:

  • GND – Ground
  • 3.3V – Power supply
  • SWDIO – Data line
  • SWCLK – Clock line

Connect them directly to an ST-LINK V2 or J-Link programmer.

  • If using a soldering iron, solder thin wires to the test points.
  • Alternatively, small crocodile clips or pins can be used, but connections must remain stable.

Double-check pin layout to avoid short circuits or microcontroller damage.

3. Flashing the Firmware

  1. Connect the programmer and plug ST-LINK V2 into your computer USB port. Launch STM32 ST-LINK Utility. The software should detect the ThinkDiag 2 microcontroller.
  2. Select “Program” or “Load File” and load the specific ThinkDiag 2 firmware (.bin file).
  3. Click “Start” and wait for the process to complete.
  4. Do not move wires, disconnect the computer, or remove the adapter during flashing.
  5. The process usually takes less than a minute.
  6. Once the software confirms a successful write, flashing is complete.

4. Reassembling and Verification

  1. Disconnect the programmer wires and carefully place the PCB back into the housing.
  2. Close the housing until all clips snap into place.
  3. Connect ThinkDiag 2 to the vehicle’s OBD port and launch the ProDiag app on your phone.
  4. Log in, enable Bluetooth, and connect the adapter. Default code is usually 1234 or 0000.
  5. Run a vehicle diagnostic to ensure proper functionality.

5. Troubleshooting

  • If the programmer does not detect the microcontroller, check connections and power supply.
  • If flashing stops mid-process, try again.
  • If the adapter is unresponsive after flashing, the wrong firmware may have been used; reflash with the correct file.
  • If Bluetooth fails to connect, remove the old pairing on your phone and reconnect.

Conclusion

The ThinkDiag 2 adapter is opened with a plastic prying tool, connected to ST-LINK V2 or J-Link via the SWD interface, firmware is uploaded through STM32 ST-LINK Utility, and then the adapter is reassembled and used with the ProDiag application. Proper flashing ensures maximum compatibility, stable operation, and access to all ProDiag features.

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