This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of configuring the options in VCDS (formerly VAG-COM) using a Ross-Tech diagnostic interface. Proper configuration is crucial for establishing communication between your PC and your vehicle’s control modules.
Understanding VCDS Options
The VCDS software offers various options categorized into tabbed sections. These settings are essential for initial setup and troubleshooting communication issues.
Port and Protocol Options
Selecting the Correct Port:
Begin by selecting the COM port connected to your Ross-Tech interface. Serial ports usually range from COM1 to COM4, while USB interfaces have a dedicated option. Ensure your vehicle’s ignition is on and the interface is connected. Click the [Test] button to verify communication. The expected test results vary depending on the interface:
| Interface Name | Expected Test Result |
|---|---|
| HEX-NET HEX-V2 | CAN: Testing or OK; K1: OK; K2: OK; Vbat: Voltage; VIgn: Voltage |
| HEX-USB+CAN HEX-COM+CAN | K1: OK; K2: OK; CAN: OK (on CAN-equipped cars); CAN: Not Ready (on cars without CAN) |
| Older Interfaces | K1: OK; K2: OK; CAN: Not Supported |
| Micro-CAN | K1: Not Supported; K2: Not Supported; CAN: OK (on Mk5-based cars) |
Results indicating “Short to Ground” or “Short to +12V” suggest potential wiring issues within the vehicle’s diagnostic port. Consult the Aftermarket Radio Page on the Ross-Tech website for troubleshooting guidance. The [LEDs] button on legacy interfaces activates the interface LED for diagnostic purposes. The [Config] button on HEX-NET or HEX-V2 launches the VCDS Interface Config utility for firmware updates, registration, and Wi-Fi configuration.
Protocol Options:
Several protocol options influence communication parameters:
- Start Baud: Automatically determined by VCDS.
- KW2 Delay, TST Addr., CAN Timeout: Retain default values unless experiencing specific communication problems. Consult Ross-Tech for adjustments.
- Debug Level: Set to zero for normal operation. Higher values increase debugging information, potentially affecting performance.
- Blk Int, Char lnt 2K / Char Int, KP2 Time: Adjusting these parameters can impact data sampling rates in Measuring Blocks. Lower values increase the rate but may compromise communication stability.
Initialization Parameters:
These settings govern the initial connection process:
- Bypass OBD-II Fastinit: Enable only if encountering difficulties connecting via generic OBD-II.
- Force K on Engine: Useful for specific engine controllers that support both CAN and K-line diagnostics. Enables K-line for potentially faster data logging.
- Bypass CAN Init: Enable only if intentionally avoiding CAN-Bus communication.
- Boot in intelligent mode/Forced Dumb Mode: Allows VCDS to determine baud rates automatically. Disabling this emulates older interfaces, potentially impacting compatibility and speed.
Reduce CPU Usage:
These options can improve system responsiveness while running VCDS, potentially reducing the data sampling rate:
- KWP-1281/KWP-2000: Enable to reduce CPU load when communicating with controllers using these protocols.
Restoring Defaults: The [Restore Defaults] button resets all protocol options (excluding Workshop Code and VZ/Importer number) to their original settings. Deleting the configuration file can resolve issues with excessive window size or corrupted settings.
User Interface and Identification
Workshop Identification:
This section allows customization of workshop-specific information:
- Shop Name: Displayed on generated reports.
- Workshop Code (WSC): Enter your dealer’s WSC if applicable. Individual users should leave the default value (00000) for stealth mode.
- VZ/Importer Number: Region code extension for the WSC. Individual users should retain the default (000).
- Equipment Number: Used primarily for coding new control modules. Retain the default (00000) unless required otherwise.
User Interface:
These settings personalize the VCDS user experience:
- Left Margin Printing: Adjusts the left margin for printed reports.
- Window Size: Modifies the VCDS window size. Changes take effect after restarting the software.
- Disable Sounds: Suppresses completion sounds during operations.
- Prevent screen power savings while communicating: Keeps the screen active during diagnostic sessions.
- Build list of CAN controllers prior to selection dialog: Enables automatic population of installed control modules. Disabling this can speed up the selection process on older vehicles lacking a Gateway Installation List.
Check for Free Updates:
VCDS can automatically check for updates upon startup or after a reboot. Configure the update frequency or manually check using the [Check for updates now] button.
Saving and Applying Changes
- [Save]: Stores the current configuration permanently.
- [Apply]: Temporarily applies the settings without saving.
- [Cancel]: Returns to the main screen without implementing any changes. Remember to save your preferences to enable full functionality within VCDS. This comprehensive guide provides a solid foundation for configuring your VCDS software and ensuring successful communication with your vehicle.
