VCDS software offers a range of customizable options to tailor your vehicle diagnostics. This guide explores the various Vcds Options available, providing insights into their functionality and how to configure them for optimal performance. Understanding these options allows you to maximize the diagnostic capabilities of VCDS.
Understanding VCDS Port and Protocol Options
The Options screen in VCDS, accessible from the main menu, allows customization of port and protocol settings crucial for establishing communication with your vehicle’s control modules.
Selecting the Right Port
The Select Port option designates the communication port used by your VCDS interface. This is typically COM1 for serial ports and “USB” for USB interfaces. Ensure your vehicle’s ignition is on and the interface is connected before clicking the [Test] button. This test verifies communication and displays the interface status.
The table below outlines expected test results for different VCDS interfaces:
| 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) |
| Other Legacy Interfaces | K1: OK K2: OK CAN: Not Supported |
| Micro-CAN | K1: Not Supported K2: Not Supported CAN: OK (when tested on a Mk5-based car) |
“Short to Ground” or “Short to +12V” results indicate 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 can aid in diagnosing connection problems. The [Config] button on HEX-NET or HEX-V2 launches a utility for firmware updates, registration, and WiFi configuration.
Fine-Tuning Protocol Options
VCDS provides several protocol options for advanced users:
- Start Baud: Automatically determined by VCDS; usually left at the default value of 0.
- KW2 Delay, TST Addr., CAN Timeout: Advanced settings related to communication timing. Consult Ross-Tech before modifying.
- Debug Level: Controls the amount of debugging information recorded. Default is zero (no debugging).
- Blk Int, Char Int 2K / Char Int, KP2 Time: Impact protocol timing and data sampling rates. Adjusting these can optimize data logging but may affect communication stability.
Initialization Parameters
These settings influence the initial connection process:
- Bypass OBD-II Fastinit: Used for troubleshooting generic OBD-II connection issues.
- Force K on Engine: Forces communication over the K-line for specific engine controllers that support both CAN and K-line.
- Bypass CAN Init: Prevents VCDS from attempting CAN-bus connections.
- Boot in intelligent mode/Forced Dumb Mode: Controls interface behavior; generally left at the default setting.
Optimizing CPU Usage
The Reduce CPU Usage options minimize system resource consumption during diagnostics, potentially at the cost of slightly reduced sampling rates.
The [Restore Defaults] button resets all protocol options to their factory settings.
Customizing the VCDS User Interface and Identification
VCDS allows personalization of the user interface and workshop identification.
Workshop Identification
This section allows input of:
- Shop Name: Displayed on generated reports.
- Workshop Code (WSC): A dealer-specific code. Independent users should leave this at 00000.
- VZ/Importer Number: A region code (444 for US, 999 for Canada). Independent users should leave this at 000.
- Equipment Number: Used for coding new control modules; default is 00000.
User Interface Options
Several options enhance the user experience:
- Left Margin Printing: Adjusts the left margin for printed reports.
- Window Size: Resizes the VCDS window.
- Disable Sounds: Disables notification sounds.
- 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; recommended for CAN-based vehicles.
Update Settings
VCDS offers automatic update checks. The frequency of these checks can be configured in the Check for free updates section.
Saving and Applying VCDS Options
The [Save] button stores your chosen options permanently. [Apply] allows testing the options without saving them. [Cancel] discards changes and returns to the main screen. Understanding and utilizing these VCDS options allows for a more efficient and customized diagnostic experience.
