ODBtool cable vs Ross-Tech cable

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Dec 22, 2004 | 06:24 AM

rwish

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ODBtool cable vs Ross-Tech cable

I know this comparison been discussed on here before so I don't want to rehash old news. From what I understand, Ross-Tech's cable is better constructed, is a dongle and is fully supported by Ross-Tech. What I didn't read was if there is any functionality that was limited as a result of using the OBDtool cable. Are those with the OBDtool limited in what they can do?

I'd really like to by the Ross-Tech package but I'm limited in funds and also don't think I need the full software license. The freeware version should do everything I need (i.e. basic diagnostics and system resets). I really wish Ross-Tech offered the cable separate so you could evaluate the freeware version and then upgrade if needed.

Dec 22, 2004 | 11:53 AM

~~Uwe@Ross-Tech.com~~

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OBDTool Interface:

* Doesn't work with newer versions of VAG-COM (4xx and newer).
* Has no dongle function or other "intelligence".
* The design is similar to the ISO-COM which we stopped selling 2 years ago because we were not happy with that techology.

Will it get you the ability to run the shareware version for cheap? Yup. But if you have problems getting up and running, call the guy you bought the interface from.

-Uwe-

Dec 22, 2004 | 01:16 PM

rwish

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Re: OBDTool Interface:

Uwe,

I understand. I really would rather purchase from Ross-Tech but as I stated, cost and need for the full license are something I need to weigh. If I KNEW that I was going to need the full-blown licensed version it would be a no brainer to buy the package from Ross-Tech. That's what my decision boils down to. Do I just need a cable to use with the shareware or do I need the full version?

Should I go the route of purchasing the ODBtool cable, I certainly wouldn't expect support from Ross-Tech.

Thanks for the response. It's appreciated.

Rick

Dec 24, 2004 | 10:23 AM

QuattroRocket

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I just sent an email inquiring about the same thing, where can you get just the cable ?

Dec 27, 2004 | 09:59 AM

rwish

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If you're specifically referring to the Ross-Tech cable, you can't

It's an all or nothing deal. You either purchase the cable and licensed (i.e. full functionality) software from Ross-Tech or purchase the cable from somewhere else and download the shareware version from Ross-Tech.

My dilemma is that I want the Ross-Tech cable (high quality with dongle) but I don't think I need the full-blown functionality. The $239 or nothing option is steep for me considering the shareware version does everything I need.

Dec 30, 2004 | 12:58 AM

SoCal Avanti

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Re:

This is where I got mine. With shareware, why pay more?<ul><li><a href="http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=4511607939">http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=4511607939</a</li></ul>

Dec 30, 2004 | 09:32 AM

rwish

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Re: Yep, saw that but

I think I'll end up going with the OBDTool cable. The reasons being support and a "company" rather than an individual. I might be picky but when I see things like "do not warry" and "This Diagnostic Interface is compatibly with software" in a sales ad, then I think twice.

I think the extra $42 is worth it for those reasons above (ODBTool is $77 with shipping and eBay is $35).

Still wish I had the option of just a cable from Ross-Tech to use with the shareware. I'd buy from them in a heartbeat if it were an option.