I have cable installed, VAGCOM installed but can only choose from COM 1 or COM 2 as all other COM ports are used up according to Device Manager on XP. When I test connection on VAGCOM across ports 1 or 2 it says port OK interface not found. The confusing thing is that if I scan COM3 it says Port OK interface found OK rosstech no etc etc. Any ideas whats occuring?

Is it a proper Ross Tech or is it an Ebay cable?

Ebay of course, I won't get the use out of it to warrant a Ross Tech no matter how much better it is. I know its the proper route BUT........

It just seems wierd that even though I assign it to COM1 or 2 it wont work but will find a supposed cable plugged in on COM3 when there isnt one there!

1 question, when you have the lead plugged into laptop does it also have to be plugged into the car before you do the "test" on the lead? When it says Port OK, interface not found I was reading it as the COM port is OK but the lead, being an interface is not found but is it refering to the car not being found - cause Im not plugged in?

Yes it has to be plugged into the car to set up.

With the ignition on

If its an ebay USB cable you also need to make sure the drivers are installed and that in device manager - PORTS (COM AND LPT) that the USB/serial adapter has a com port value of 1,2,3 or 4 so that VAG COM can use it. And as above, cable connected to car and Ignition On.