Imminent scanner purchase

[Cornershop]

Thinking about buying a 'device' from gendan but unsure which one.

Appears that all roads lead to VCDS but for my basic needs would something like a foxwell nt500 suffice?

http://m.gendan.co.uk/product_FXNT500.html

I think I just need the ability to read/clear codes ie I'm not planning on adding functionallity in any way.

Would VCDS piCkup more fault codes and/or provide more accurate diagnostic info?

I like the practicality of the foxwell (easier to manage than a laptop?) but I maybe put off by ongoing software update costs after the first 18months - or £60/yr - that would work out very expensive

Thanks all

[andycaca]

buy the genuine VCDS. costs 250 quid, does everything you could possibly want with no yearly subscription.

and they hold value very well, you will probably be able to sell it for 80% of the purchase price on ebay.

[Cornershop]

Fair shout re re-sale however I need to weigh it up against usability and accuracy etc. im not overly keen in having to lump a 17" screen laptop with me to the garage

Is it the best In terms of its outputs and actually pinpointing issues

[Goran]

I'm sure there is a phone app for it (VCDS) now, I think Neil had it on his phone if memory serves correctly.

[Architex_mA8tey]

In my opinion nothing other than the genuine VCDS cable will do all of the things you may need to do. Yes you can reset codes on most but not always all codes, also there is a level of support and back up from Ross-tech that you don't get anywhere else. You will quickly find out how useful it is once you have one, and also how lacking the others are if you don't!
The cable needs to connect through a USB connection but the software doesn't have to be on a huge laptop, most of us use mini computers or touch screen tablets as long as there is a usb. Rosstech do now have an app I think for tablets to make things easier.

[Cornershop]

so having caved in under the peer pressure, i now have a HEX-UBS lead sitting in front of me and s/w downloaded to my laptop

great next day service from ilexa

[Delboy]

Wise choice, you wont regret it.

[Architex_mA8tey]

Originally Posted by Delboy

Wise choice, you wont regret it.

+1
If you're coming to the annual meet we are also hoping to have a short talk on both using VCDS for all the basics / common 8 needs plus another on using ETKA with good hints and tips
I Keep saying it but you DON'T wanna miss the annual meeting!!!