I've been threatening to buy VCDS for a while now.

What with there being 3 VAG cars owned by family members I think it will be useful - also I'll be there to help out the Briskoda community!!

OK, a few quick questions:

1. All the VAG cars in the family are quite modern, so all I need is the HEX-USB+CAN interface cable?

2. Is there any minimum requirements for the laptop you use? Got a low powered Netbook running Windows - light and easy to take out to the cars, this kind of thing OK so long as its running Windows?

3. Is it relatively easy to learn how to use etc? Obviously not going to be doing any trial and error, but don't need a degree or anything to operate it?

4. So.....where is the diagnostic port on the Mk2.5 Octavia? For some reason I think it's inside the car, but something telling me it's under the bonnet?

Cheers.

1) Yes

2) Not really. I used a pentium 2 machine not that long ago.

3) Learn by doing, but ross-tech wiki is worth a read

4) Octavia is probably under steering wheel/dash. Look for a purple connector around 2.5" wide and 1" high

1. All the VAG cars in the family are quite modern, so all I need is the HEX-USB+CAN interface cable?

The HEX-USB+CAN will cover VAG cars (with a few exceptions) from 1995 through 2012 model year. (Exceptions are limited to those models that are re-badged units from other OEs - like the Routan in the US which is actually a Chrysler product)

2. Is there any minimum requirements for the laptop you use? Got a low powered Netbook running Windows - light and easy to take out to the cars, this kind of thing OK so long as its running Windows?

Our FAQ page is your friend to get the exact specs for the computer - we also show them on all ordering pages in our web store.

Specifically, refer to FAQ 1.4 (http://www.ross-tech.com/vag-com/faq_1.html#1.4)

3. Is it relatively easy to learn how to use etc? Obviously not going to be doing any trial and error, but don't need a degree or anything to operate it?

To get a better feel for the product and the information presented, view the online interactive Manual:http://www.ross-tech.com/vcds/tour/main_screen.html The buttons on the screen shots you see there are active and will take to subsequent screens.

4. So.....where is the diagnostic port on the Mk2.5 Octavia? For some reason I think it's inside the car, but something telling me it's under the bonnet?

Under the dash is the correct answer. To see what the connector looks like, visit our Possible DLC Location page: http://www.ross-tech.com/vag-com/cars/dlc.html

.......

This must THE biggest reason to buy the pukka interface, how many suppliers of a Chinese cable will answer as thoroughly?

(this is not aimed to the OP - as he can clearly seen the benefits of a Ross-Tech interface)

Read up on any changes you wish to make BEFORE you do them, then save a scan of the car, write down any codes that you are about to change and you should be fine.