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Post by johnhansen on Dec 18, 2023 20:50:42 GMT
I am almost certain that the diagnostic tool I should have purchased is OBD11 ?
I was advised to get Ross Tech, and as an part time user I struggle to get back into using it after not needing it for months. I only occasionally need to run scans or fault find.
The interface requires a few jotted down memory notes before you can launch into it, as there seems to be no pocket guide, and some interfaces force you to input free characters then click a test button to see if the syntax is acceptable.
If a limited number of codes are acceptable to the vehicle's system, then the user should be presented with that list, or at least be given a character by character dropdown as each is typed in.
The codes should ideally be shown on the screen in a separate table where the user can input the appropriate values ?
I get the impression that OBD11 gives this type of interface to the user ?
Can anyone reply and give me a better idea of the advantages of OBD11 ?
Cheers
John
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Post by dv52 (Australia) on Dec 19, 2023 0:32:02 GMT
johnhansen : Hi. I've used both VCDS and OBD11 for many years now and my honest opinion is that they both have their advantages and limitations. IMO, the choice between the two is really a matter of which device better suits your intentions at an acceptable price. VCDS doesn't currently charge an annual subscription fee and software updates are free - but the crop of HEX-NET devices have a VIN limit, so once you use-up the VIN count, you need to buy more licenses!! The PRO version of OBD11 on the other hand does require that you pay an annual fee - but there are no VIN limitations. OBD11 also has One Click Apps - but VCDS does not (ALL coding must be done manually).
Another variation is the relationship between the user and the mother-ship in daily operations. To explain, for VCDS the user interacts with Ross-Tech only when updating the software - the rest of the time, operation of the device is largely independent of Ross-Tech. However, with OBD11, the presence of VOLTAS is much closer when operating OBD11 - meaning that the user is constantly exchanging data with the parent company whenever the OBD11 software is being used. I'm not sure if this good, or bad - but it is a difference between the two devices.
Also, think about the likely locations where the diagnostic device will be used. VCDS is a stand-alone application - meaning that it is independent of the outside environment. However, OBD11 needs good internet access to operate- so it has limitations in underground garages and in places where ISP services are shielded by tall buildings and other infrastructure.
Then there is the issue of SFD - which is the protection mechanism for VAG model cars built after 2021. Although Ross-Tech has been promising to a compliant solution for SFD protocol for many years, VCDS still can't interface properly to cars with SFD. On the other hand, OBD11 was the first diagnostic device that was fully SFD compliant.
And finally there is also the matter of the scope of application of the two diagnostic devices. VCDS has been and I suspect will always remain a VAG only product. OBD11 however has a far wider scope including BMW and other vehicle manufacturers.
As I have said - it's swings and roundabouts for both devices (IMO, of course)!
Don
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