This is a diagnostic tool used by BMW factory engineers. It called a BMW K+D-CAN interface. It works on BMW's from 1992 onwards. It can do the older and newer models including the Mini(R56) and the BMW-powered Rolls Royce.
The tool connects to your PC via a USB interface and comes with a set of software that can do diagnostics, ECU and control units configuration and flash programming. The diagnostics software tool (INPA) is in ENGLISH but the control unit (NCSExpert) and flash programming software (NFS/WinKFP) are in GERMAN. I have english guides that will help you go through the German menus of the software.
The diagnostic tool - INPA/EDIABAS can read and delete fault codes of the different subsystems like DME (main computer box) , EGS (Transmission), Airbag, IKE, instrument cluster, body electronics, chassis sub-systems etc.
This is a powerful tool that allows you not just to diagnose but also to reconfigure the vehicle, upload new software versions and go real deep in the car's subsystems.
This can connect to BMW's 16 pin diagnostic sockets. For the older BMW's, a 20 pin OBDII adapter is also provided in the package.
You can drop by my car workshop - Motor Doctor if you are interested in this tool. see www.motor-doctor.com for location map.