The Mercedes Xentry Connect C5 is a powerful diagnostic tool for Mercedes-Benz vehicles. However, its performance can be sluggish due to its older hardware. This guide outlines upgrades to significantly improve the speed and efficiency of your XENTRY Connect C5.
After extensive use of the XENTRY Connect C5, its slow performance, from boot-up to software loading, became apparent. Unlike simpler interfaces, the C5 is a mini-computer with upgradable components. Disassembly revealed the following specifications:
- OS: Windows 7 32-bit Embedded
- Motherboard: HM65 Chipset
- CPU: Intel Celeron B810 (2 cores, 2 threads, 1.6GHz, 35W) – The primary bottleneck.
- GPU: Integrated
- RAM: 4GB Samsung DDR3 1333MHz (Maximum for 32-bit Windows)
- SSD: 256GB Xmore (238GB in older models)
- WiFi: Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 (2.4GHz & 5GHz, 300mbps)
Upgrading the CPU for a Significant Performance Boost
The biggest improvement comes from replacing the Celeron B810 with a more powerful CPU. An Intel Core i7 2640M (2 cores, 4 threads, 2.8GHz – 3.5GHz, 35W) provides a substantial speed increase.
Performance Comparison:
| Task | Celeron B810 | i7 2640M |
|---|---|---|
| XENTRY Startup Time | 57 Seconds | 25 Seconds |
| Sleep to No Car Connected | 47 Seconds | 37 Seconds |
The i7 2640M provides a significant performance boost within the XENTRY software. The 35W TDP is crucial to maintain safe operating temperatures within the C5’s limited cooling system. While more powerful processors exist, exceeding this wattage risks overheating. A Core i7 2670QM was tested, but its higher power consumption caused the C5 to shut down.
CPU Installation:
- Disconnect the battery and power supply.
- Remove the back shield.
- Unscrew and remove the radiator.
- Rotate the black CPU socket protector.
- Replace the CPU with the i7 2640M, applying new thermal paste.
- Reassemble all components.
Other Potential Upgrades
- SSD: While the existing SSD capacity is sufficient, replacing it with a higher-performance SSD could yield minor improvements. Cloning the existing drive is recommended.
- RAM: Limited to 4GB by the 32-bit operating system. Upgrading to 64-bit Windows is theoretically possible but complex and not recommended.
- WiFi: An Intel AC-7260 offers faster speeds but is known for driver issues. Driver Booster can be used to install updated drivers via remote desktop connection. The C5 supports USB 2.0, 3.0, and 3.1.
Software Installation and Updates
The XENTRY Connect C5 should be updated to the latest XENTRY software (2020.06). This is the final version compatible with the C5. Newer versions require Kit 3 or 4.
Update Procedure:
- Download the XENTRY Kit 2 2020.06 update.
- Extract the contents to a USB drive (minimum 32GB).
- Put the XENTRY Connect C5 in standby mode.
- Connect the power supply and the USB drive.
- Start update mode by simultaneously pressing the “red cross” and “green tick” buttons.
- Confirm the update by pressing the “green tick.” The update takes approximately 100 minutes.
- The C5 will indicate completion and shut down automatically.
Troubleshooting
Boot/Update Issues:
If the C5 gets stuck in boot or update mode:
- Create a bootable USB drive with a standard (non-embedded) 32-bit Windows 7 installation.
- Remove the C5’s SSD and connect it to a laptop.
- Boot the laptop from the Windows 7 USB drive.
- Select “Repair my computer” and then “Startup Repair.”
- Reinstall the SSD in the C5. Ensure it is securely fastened to prevent further boot issues.
Update Errors:
For any update errors:
- Use the XENTRY Support Tool to reset the C5.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to create a reset USB drive.
- Initiate the reset process using the “red cross” and “green tick” buttons.
- Retry the 2020.06 update after the reset is complete.
Conclusion
By upgrading the CPU and performing necessary software updates, the Mercedes XENTRY Connect C5 can be transformed from a sluggish tool into a powerful and efficient diagnostic system. While other upgrades are possible, the CPU replacement provides the most significant performance gains. Regularly cleaning the internal components, especially the cooling system, is also crucial for optimal performance and longevity.
