VCDS Not Detecting USB Dongle: A Macbook Pro User’s Guide to Success

Connecting a Ross-Tech HEX-V2 interface to a Macbook Pro for VCDS can be challenging. This guide provides a solution for users encountering the “Vcds Not Detecting Usb Dongle” error, specifically when using a USB-C to USB adapter with Parallels Desktop and Windows 11.

Overcoming USB Dongle Recognition Issues in Parallels Desktop

The issue stems from how macOS and Parallels Desktop manage USB device connections. By default, macOS prioritizes connecting new USB devices to itself, potentially preventing Windows 11 (running in Parallels) from recognizing the VCDS dongle.

The key to resolving this is configuring Parallels Desktop to prioritize the Windows 11 virtual machine for USB connections. Initially, connecting the HEX-V2 interface to the USB dongle might prompt a macOS dialog asking whether to associate the device with macOS or Windows 11. Incorrectly selecting macOS leads to the “VCDS not detecting USB dongle” error.

To fix this, you need to adjust the USB settings within Parallels Desktop:

1. Access Parallels Preferences: Navigate to Parallels Desktop -> Preferences in the macOS menu bar.

2. Modify Device Settings: Select the Devices tab and click on Restore Defaults. This ensures that when a new external USB device is connected, Parallels will prompt you to choose which operating system (macOS or Windows 11) should access it.

3. Reconnect the Dongle: Unplug the HEX-V2 interface from the USB dongle and reconnect it. The macOS dialog should reappear.

4. Select Windows 11: This time, choose Windows 11 as the target operating system for the USB dongle. This crucial step allows the Windows 11 virtual machine, where VCDS is running, to properly access the HEX-V2 interface.

After selecting Windows 11, a message may appear prompting you to start the Ross-Tech HEX-V2 driver installation. Allow the installation to complete.

You should now be able to successfully run the VCDS software. To verify the connection, perform a test within VCDS:

1. Open VCDS software.
2. Click Options.
3. Click Test.
4. Click Save.

A successful test indicates that the VCDS software is now correctly communicating with the HEX-V2 interface through the USB dongle. This should resolve the “VCDS not detecting USB dongle” error and allow you to perform diagnostics on your vehicle.

Conclusion

By correctly configuring the USB device settings in Parallels Desktop, users can overcome the common issue of VCDS not detecting a USB dongle when using a Macbook Pro. Ensuring that Windows 11 has priority access to the USB dongle allows for seamless communication between the VCDS software and the HEX-V2 interface, enabling successful vehicle diagnostics. If you continue to experience issues, consult the Ross-Tech website for further troubleshooting guidance.