Frequently Asked Questions -- Page 3

3.1  Do I need an Interface Adapter?

Yes.  The ISO-9141 port in your car is not directly compatible with any standard PC port.  The ISO-9141 port in your car is somewhat RS-232 like, but you can't just wire up a cable -- you must put electronics in between to allow a PC to communicate with the car.   We offer several complete packages consisting of an  Interface Adapter, the full-function version of VCDS, at least one free year of updates and tech support starting at $249.  

3.2  Can I use an Interface adapter that came with another software package?

VCDS is not compatible with 3rd party interfaces at all, even in shareware mode and vehicles that use CAN-Bus diagnostics require a genuine CAN Interface. To use VCDS, you need to use a genuine KEY- or HEX-, or Micro- series Interface purchased directly from Ross-Tech or from one of our distributors.

Any interface that works with VWTool or VDS-PRO should work with VCDS-Lite.   In addition, the ISO-only interface adapter that Alex Peper ships with his Vehicle Explorer OBD-II software package should work with VCDS-Lite.   Alex's "combination" adapters will not work with VCDS-Lite.  Most other "OBD-II" adapters will not work and ones that use ELM chips will definitely not work.    If you have some other adapter, simply try it, you can't hurt anything.  Of course, if you have difficulties using VCDS-Lite with that adapter, you'll need to contact your hardware supplier for support.

3.3  Can I buy an Interface adapter somewhere else?

VCDS is not compatible with 3rd party interfaces at all, even in shareware mode and vehicles that use CAN-Bus diagnostics require a genuine CAN Interface. To use VCDS, you need to use a genuine KEY- or HEX-, or Micro- series Interface purchased directly from Ross-Tech or from one of our distributors.

You may find vendors that are willing to sell interfaces that they claim are "compatible" with older versions like 311 or 409, or with VCDS-Lite.    If you buy an interface from a 3rd party, please do not expect us to provide start-up support.  If you can get VCDS-Lite to work to your satisfaction in shareware mode, we'd be happy to have you register the software with us for $99.  We will then provide support for the functionality of the software -- but not for connection problems.

Notes:  (Caveat Emptor!)  

● We've had numerous reports of problems with 3rd-party USB interfaces.   VCDS-Lite does not include any USB drivers.    In order for a 3rd party USB interface to work at all, the vendor must supply a USB driver for the device, which emulates a Serial port.   This is intrinsically slower than directly accessing the interface via USB.   It may also cause difficulties connecting  or unreliable sessions with some control modules.

● We've had many reports that certain 3rd-party interfaces (Serial as well as USB) do not work properly with some control modules.    If you have a 3rd party interface, please make sure it works with all the control modules in all the cars you're planning to scan before you register. 

Again, If you buy someone else's interface and can't get it working, contact the vendor for support!    Of course if you buy one of our complete hardware/software kits, we will provide start-up support as well as free updates for at least one year from date of purchase.

3.4  Can I build my own Interface Adapter?

VCDS is not compatible with 3rd party interfaces at all, even in shareware mode and vehicles that use CAN-Bus diagnostics require a genuine CAN Interface. To use VCDS, you need to use a genuine KEY- or HEX-, or Micro- series Interface purchased directly from Ross-Tech or from one of our distributors.

There are a number of websites with plans and schematics that claim to work with with older versions like 311 or 409, or with VCDS-Lite..   However, we will not provide links to them, nor do we sell connectors or parts.   We do not have the time or inclination to help people debug their home-built interface adapters via e-mail or over the telephone.   If you choose to build your own adapter,  that's fine -- we have no problem with that.  Just don't expect any assistance from us until you have VCDS-Lite talking to your car in shareware mode. We have reports that some 3rd party Interface designs do not work correctly with some control modules.   If you can get VCDS-Lite to work to your satisfaction in shareware mode, we'd be happy to have you register the software with us for $99.  We will then provide support for the functionality of the software -- but not for connection problems. Of course if you buy one of our complete hardware/software kits, we will provide start-up support as well as free updates for at least one year from date of purchase.

3.5  Why does VCDS-Lite require Activation?

All of our Current Interfaces  have Activation built-in for VCDS so users never have to worry about Activation.

VCDS-Lite will run through "dumb" interfaces which are not particularly difficult to make and we would like to get paid for our work!  The reality is that there many people in this world that just won't pay for software unless they have to.   We've invested a large amount of time and expense in developing this software, and we're trying to make a living with this product.  Furthermore, we're trying to sell it at a price that makes it affordable to everyone.   The activation scheme is intended to ensure that we get paid by every user, not to make life difficult for registered customers.  

3.6  What if I need to run VCDS on more than one PC?

Purchase of a VCDS-Lite software license entitles the buyer to simultaneous use of the program on only one PC and we allow ONE change of PC per license. If you have a need to run our software on more than one PC, you should buy one of our Current Interfaces (which have Activation for VCDS built in).  Existing registered customers are eligible for a Upgrades to our newer interfaces.  

3.7  How do I permanently move VCDS from one PC to another?

All of our Current Interfaces  have Activation built-in, so you can download and install VCDS onto as many PC's as you'd like, so VCDS is fully Registered and Activated once you test it on a car.

If you have a "dumb" interface that does not have built-in Activation see this page: How do I permanently move VCDS-Lite from one PC to another?

3.8  What's the De-Activate button for?  Why would I want to do that?

Old versions of our software contained a De-Activate button. This is no longer present in VCDS or VCDS-Lite..

3.9  Why has VCDS become De-Activated on its own?

All of our Current Interfaces  have Activation built-in, so VCDS should always be Fully Activated once it has been tested on a car. If you have a Current Interface and VCDS has become De-Activated, please contact us.

If you have a "dumb" interface that does not have built-in Activation see this page: Why has VCDS become De-Activated on its own?

3.10  Can I sell my VCDS System to someone else?

You can sell the Interface, but the software license and support are not transferable.  

If you have a "dumb" interface for VCDS-Lite and the purchaser wants the full-function version, he will have to register as a new user for $99. 

All of our Current Interfaces act as "dongles" for VCDS, so the software should be fully functional on any PC that meets our requirements.  However, we only provide support to the original purchaser.  If you purchase a second-hand "dongle" Interface and want to be a "registered user" and get technical support, you can register for technical support for $99 here.  Please note that second-hand owners of Ross-Tech Interfaces are not eligible for any of our Trade-In offers even if they register for technical support.

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