Thursday 14th may 2026
- 12pm - 1pm
- 1hr
old school ignition systems
Modern diagnostics may be sprinting toward the future, but the fundamentals of ignition remain essential for any master technician. This session strips back the complexity to focus on “Old School” systems, exploring the critical relationships between distributors, dwell, ignition timing, and coil saturation.
We’ll dive deep into the physics of the combustion chamber, specifically analyzing how cylinder pressure directly dictates spark demand and gap ionization. Whether you are maintaining classics or reinforcing your foundational knowledge, this session bridges the gap between traditional mechanical timing and modern electronic control. Rediscover the art of ignition forensics to solve the problems that software can’t.
steve smith
PICO TECHNOLOGY
- 2pm - 3pm
- 1hr
NVH Introduction
Stop guessing and start measuring. This session introduces NVH as a high-value diagnostic tool, answering the vital question: “How can this help me today?” We move beyond subjective listening to objective data, focusing on identifying failing Dual Mass Flywheels, wheel bearings, and elusive suspension knocks.
Using bench-top props and real-world scenarios, you’ll learn to identify “offending frequencies” to pinpoint misfires and mechanical vibrations with surgical accuracy. Whether you’re using it as a sophisticated “listening” device or for unknown frequency identification, master the techniques that turn invisible vibrations into fast, profitable, and accurate workshop results.
steve smith
PICO TECHNOLOGY
friday 15th may 2026
- 11am - 12pm
- 1hr
using maths channels to monitor intermittent faults
Stop chasing ghosts and let the software do the heavy lifting. This session demystifies math channels, transforming your oscilloscope from a simple graphing tool into an automated diagnostic assistant. We start with the core principles—defining what a math channel is and how to build them—before advancing to high-level workshop applications.
Learn to create custom triggers that monitor intermittent faults in the background, allowing you to focus on other jobs while Pico captures the “needle in the haystack.” Master the art of automated data analysis to catch glitches the human eye misses, maximizing your billable time and diagnostic accuracy.
steve smith
PICO TECHNOLOGY
- 2pm - 4pm
- 2hr
Diagnosing Modern Energy Systems: From ICE To Electrification
Modern diagnostics require a shift from component swapping to systematic evaluation. This session masters Petrol, Diesel, and PHEV platforms by first evaluating the engine as an air pump—verifying mechanical integrity via cam/crank correlation before combustion begins. You’ll learn to use math channels to isolate cylinder contribution, analyze fuel rail deviations, and utilize MAF-to-power calculations to verify performance.
The transition to electrification leverages these skills; we’ll demonstrate using High Voltage Motor Generators for rapid relative compression testing and examine how PHEV charging health impacts the driver’s perception of engine power. Master these diagnostic pathways to solve complex energy system faults.
steve smith
PICO TECHNOLOGY
SATURDAY 16th may 2026
- 10:30am - 11:30am
- 1hr
Engine Oil Additives Uncovered
Gain a deep understanding of engine oil additives, their functions, and how they impact engine performance, durability and customer satisfaction – delivered by an independent technical professional. No spin, just the facts for workshop technicians.
rosS WALKER
CASTROL
- 1:30pm - 2:30am
- 1hr
Thermal Imaging: Comparison, Use Cases, and Basic Navigation
Product line overview → so many solutions, which one is best for me?
Use cases discussion → what ways can I use a thermal imager to increase my efficiency and accuracy in the shop every day?
User Interface → learn about the user interface of the Android/iOS thermal imagers, the PC software, and the onboard user interface for the self-contained imagers!
scott hicks
TOPDON USA
