Open vs Upload Map: the one to get right
These two sound similar and do very different things:
- Open loads a map file into ESP so you can look at it or edit it offline. If you're connected to the ECU, ESP disconnects first. Nothing is sent to the ECU.
- Upload Map sends a saved map file into the ECU, replacing whatever tune is in there now.
So if a customer sends us a tune to review, we Open it. If we're putting a new tune into a car, we Upload it. Before any upload, save a copy of the tune that's currently in the ECU. That way you can always go back.
Every File menu item
| Item | What it does |
|---|---|
| ESP Online | A submenu for the ESP Online service: Sign In, View (opens the ESP Online window), Edit Details for the logged-in account, Change User to sign out and let someone else sign in, and Disconnect to unlink ESP from the service |
| New | Opens a new ESP window |
| Open | Loads a map file for viewing or offline editing, disconnecting from the ECU if needed |
| Recent Files | Quick access to maps you've opened lately |
| Connect/Disconnect | Starts or ends the live link between ESP and the ECU. The ECU must be powered before you connect |
| Save | Writes the current map to the file you have open. On a map that's never been saved, it asks for a name and location |
| Save As | Always asks for a new name and location, leaving the original file untouched |
| Upload Map | Loads a saved map into the ECU, overwriting its current tune |
| Restore Default | Puts the settings back to their defaults |
| Import Map | Opens the import dialog, so you can bring maps or settings in from another offline map |
| Exit | Closes ESP |
How we manage files in the shop
- Save As often. Before a tuning session, Save As with the date and a short note. Each big change gets its own file, so you can step back if something doesn't work out.
- Use Import Map for pieces. Want a proven idle or boost setup from another map without taking everything else? Import is the tool, not Upload.
- Treat Restore Default with care. It's useful when starting fresh, but it isn't an undo button. Save first.
- Connect with the key on. If Connect fails, check the ECU actually has power before you chase USB drivers.
The rest of the ESP menus are covered in our articles on Edit, View, Setup and Tools. Need a tune reviewed? Send us the file.
