Using a Ross-Tech HEX-CAN USB interface with VCDS software on a newer Macbook Pro with an M1 processor requires a few extra steps. This guide outlines a successful setup process using Parallels Desktop and Windows 11 on an M1 Pro Macbook Pro, highlighting the crucial step of correctly assigning the USB interface to the Windows virtual machine. Successfully configuring the Ross Tech Hex Can Usb Intel Profi Interface Vcds allows you to perform diagnostics on your Volkswagen, Audi, Seat, and Skoda vehicles.
Installing VCDS on Macbook Pro M1 with Parallels
This setup utilizes a 2022 M1 Pro Macbook Pro with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, running OSX 12.1. A Ross-Tech HEX V2 interface with an enthusiast license, a Platinum brand USB-C to USB adapter, and a 12V battery were also used. The key software component is Parallels Desktop version 17.1.1, which automatically installs Windows 11 Home.
The initial challenge was connecting the Ross-Tech HEX V2 interface. Plugging the interface into the OBD-II port and the Macbook via the USB adapter, then launching VCDS within Parallels resulted in a “USB cable not plugged in” error during the VCDS test procedure.
The solution lies in correctly managing the USB device assignment within Parallels. Upon plugging and unplugging the USB adapter, macOS presents a dialog asking whether to associate the USB device with macOS or Windows 11. Initially selecting macOS proved unsuccessful.
Configuring USB Device for Windows 11 in Parallels
To resolve the issue, access Parallels Desktop Preferences, navigate to the Devices section, and click “Restore Defaults”. This resets the USB device handling to “Ask me what to do” when a new device is connected.
Disconnect and reconnect the USB adapter. When prompted to choose the operating system for the USB device, select Windows 11. This allows the Windows virtual machine, and subsequently VCDS, to recognize and communicate with the Ross-Tech HEX-CAN USB interface.
After correctly assigning the USB device to Windows 11, a prompt to start the Ross-Tech HEX V2 driver appeared. Allowing the driver installation completes the connection process. The VCDS software successfully completed the [Options], [Test], and [Save] sequence, enabling a successful vehicle scan. This confirms the correct setup and functionality of the Ross Tech Hex Can USB Intel Profi Interface VCDS.
Conclusion
Successfully using the Ross-Tech HEX-CAN USB interface with VCDS on an M1 Mac requires careful attention to USB device assignment within Parallels. By ensuring the interface is connected to the Windows 11 virtual machine, users can unlock the full diagnostic capabilities of VCDS for their vehicles. This simple but crucial step ensures seamless communication between the software and hardware components, allowing for accurate vehicle diagnostics.
