PC-based diagnostic tool comparison (VW/Audi/Seat/Skoda)

VW, Audi, Seat and Skoda PC Tools at a glance...
The following cables are compatible with most VW, Audi, Seat and Skoda vehicles with a 16-pin diagnostics socket. The cables, together with software downloads, provide access to all systems within a car (unlike the EOBD tools which are engine-only). PCs and laptops should be running Windows 98SE or newer. Adaptors are available for some pre-1996 VW and Audi vehicles with a 4-pin (2x2) socket. Please click on the links for detailed information on the products.
Product	Contents	Requirements
VW Audi Group USB Diagnostics Interface Cable £19.94	High-spec VAG-COM compatible cable - includes Dual K-Line needed for some Audi models 16-pin connector (vehicle-end) and USB connector (PC-end) Download instructions for shareware version of VCDS-Lite	VW, Audi, Seat or Skoda vehicle from approx. 1996-2003 Windows PC (XP or newer) with USB Port
VCDS (VAG-COM) Micro-CAN USB £209.95	Official Ross-Tech CAN-only cable providing access to the full capabilities of the latest VCDS (VAG-COM) Software version - an excellent tool for the Enthusiast 16-pin connector (vehicle-end) and USB connector (PC-end) Software download instructions and Ross-Tech Software Support Certificate	VW, Audi, Seat or Skoda vehicle using the CAN protocol for ALL systems (i.e. some models approx. 2003 on) Compatible only with cars based on the Golf Mk.5, 6 & 7 platforms Windows PC (XP or newer) with USB Port
VCDS (VAG-COM) HEX-USB+CAN £270.00 An excellent tool for the Enthusiast or Professional	Official Ross-Tech Dual K-Line plus CAN cable providing access to the full capabilities of the latest VCDS (VAG-COM) Software version 16-pin connector (vehicle-end) and USB connector (PC-end) Software download instructions and Ross-Tech Software Support Certificate	VW, Audi, Seat or Skoda vehicle from approx. 1996 to current date Windows PC (XP or newer) with USB Port
VCDS HEX-USB Power Bundle £299.95 Professional Coverage	Official Ross-Tech Dual K-Line plus CAN (HEX-USB+CAN) cable providing access to the full capabilities of the latest VCDS (VAG-COM) Software version 16-pin connector (vehicle-end) and USB connector (PC-end) Software download instructions and Ross-Tech Software Support Certificate 2x2 pin adaptor cable to access earlier VW and Audi models (approx 1992-1995) VW LT Van adaptor cable 3 metre USB extension cable Plastic carry case	VW, Audi, Seat or Skoda vehicle from approx. 1992 to current date Windows PC (XP or newer) with USB Port