(Easy) Techstream on Linux with Virtual Box - Fix for "Unable to connect to VIM"

Discussion in 'Prius OBDII Third-Party Apps' started by txexplorer, Apr 26, 2025.

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  1. txexplorer

    txexplorer Member

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    I got Techstream setup on my Linux laptop, and wanted to help any others struggling with it.

    Note: this was the USB adapter I purchased, J2534 from amazon:
    http://www.amazon.com/CTobd-Communication-Interface-Techstream-Diagnostic/dp/B0CZ4C3TVM/


    Step 1: Install Virtual Box through the package manager in Linux

    Step 2: I downloaded the TechStream 12.20.024-v2 .ova file from Step 4 of this thread:
    How-To: TechStream In 5 Minutes | IH8MUD Forum

    Step 3: Import the .ova file into Virtual Box.

    This will setup the virtual Windows XP with Techstream and all the drivers and files needed.

    It was at this point that my Linux was not communicating with Virtual Box to recognize the VIM, whereas Windows users will have no issues.

    There is a simple fix for this, that many Linux users overlook.

    I found the solution on this page:
    webcam - Virtualbox not seeing any usb devices in the usb filters settings - Ask Ubuntu.

    ----------------------
    This may help you access the USB devices in your guest OS hosted in Ubuntu

    First install dkms to your host Ubuntu:
    • sudo apt-get install dkms
    Next install Gnome-System-Tools to your host Ubuntu:
    • sudo apt-get install gnome-system-tools
    Now launch the application - Users and Groups in host Ubuntu. If you're using Gnome you can do this by tapping the Super key and type user then click Users and Groups icon to start up the User Settings.

    Click Manage Groups, find vboxusers, click properties, add your own user name and any other desired users to the vboxusers group. Click Ok. Alternative to using this GUI tool to add user to the group is to use the command sudo usermod -a -G vboxusers $USER .

    ---------------------

    I also installed the extension pack:

    sudo apt-get install virtualbox-ext-pack

    ----------------------

    After I added my username to the "vboxusers" group, the virtual box was able to detect the vim. As soon as I started it up, it showed New Hardware, and I could detect it using the tools.

    Hope this helps anyone out there struggling with Techstream.
     
    #1 txexplorer, Apr 26, 2025
    bisco, Leadfoot J. McCoalroller and Brian1954 like this.
  2. txexplorer

    txexplorer Member

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    I want to mention, before you Start the virtual box server, Open the Settings, and disable the Network Adapter under Network.

    That way the internet is disconnected for the Virtual Box and you don't have to worry about any backdoors.
     
    #2 txexplorer, Apr 26, 2025
    bisco likes this.
  3. black_jmyntrn

    black_jmyntrn Senior Member

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    wait wait wait... why is this a good thing and the techstream version is v12 with the latest being v18.00.008? Also... I've never had success bleeding the brakes with a low cost device like the one you provided in the link to amazon... its only with higher end devices can you successfully bleed the brakes... this and what you posted unless verified can bleed the brakes is useless honestly... no offence.

    but either way, why not just have a usb stick that you put in, it loads windows automatically and has techstream installed on that usb stick? thats what I do...
     
    #3 black_jmyntrn, Sep 15, 2025 at 5:59 AM
  4. black_jmyntrn

    black_jmyntrn Senior Member

    Joined:
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    Location:
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    Vehicle:
    2013 Prius Plug-in
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    Plug-in Advanced
    I want to build a portable little Windows PC that I can use specifically with Techstream, and my plan is to put it together using a LattePanda 3 Delta paired with an 11.6” 1920x1080 FHD eDP touch display.

    The LattePanda 3 Delta (8GB RAM / 64GB eMMC) is basically a full Windows/Linux single-board computer, small enough to carry around but powerful enough for running diagnostic software. It has an Intel N5105 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 64GB of onboard storage—perfect for a lightweight but capable setup.

    For the screen, I’ll be using the 11.6-inch FHD eDP touch display (1920x1080 resolution). It’s slim, supports multi-touch, and gives me a nice portable interface to work with when I’m in the car or moving around with Techstream.

    The goal here is to make a compact, all-in-one diagnostic machine—something way smaller and more portable than lugging around a full laptop, but still running full Windows so Techstream works without issue.

    Basically, think of it as a DIY portable Windows tablet, powered by the LattePanda, dedicated to running Techstream and other automotive tools.
     
    #4 black_jmyntrn, Sep 15, 2025 at 6:12 AM
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