Other than compatibility the only real difference is lack of turbo mode (see further down).
From the links you provided
VCDS (VAG-COM Diagnostic System) License with Micro-CAN Interface
Low-cost interface designed exclusively for use on cars based on Mk.5 Golf technology. This interface is not backwards compatible with older cars using K-lines for diagnostics, and it is not compatible with some Audi models. See the Micro-CAN technical page for a list of compatible models.
Compatibility:
This interface is compatible only with cars based on Mk.5 Golf technology.
*
All Golf platform cars (A5/A6 platform) including:
<snip>
If your car's chassis type isn't on this list, it's not compatible with this interface! All of these chassis-types are the latest generation of that model. Previous generations of the same model are not compatible and should use a KEY- or HEX- series interface instead. If you're not certain, please check your car's VIN. The 7th and 8th digit have the chassis code. For example: WAUMF78P06A0NNNNN is an 8P-chassis Audi A3.
http://www.ross-tech.com/Merchant2/m...ry_Code=VAGCOM
VCDS (VAG-COM Diagnostic System) License with HEX-USB+CAN Interface
The professional's interface you need to turn any PC with an available USB Port into a powerful diagnostic tool for VW, Audi, Seat or Skoda automobiles.
Works with all diagnostic-capable VW/Audi cars in model years 1990 through the current model year, even the latest models which require a direct CAN connection for diagnostics
# Compatible with all the latest cars which require a direct CAN connection for diagnostics.
# Fully backwards compatible with older cars using a single K-line or
K plus L.
# Protocol timing indistinguishable from a real VAG/VAS tool. Works reliably even with "difficult" control modules such as the 1991-1994 1Z Audi TDIs and the 1993-1994 Audi 2.6L with Hella ECU.
# Built-In VAG-Saver functionality -- instantly alerts the user if either the K/K1 line or the L/K2 line is shorted to Ground or Vbatt.
# Full support for dual-K lines found in "new" (B6/8E chassis Audi A4 and 2002+ Audi A6 -- no VAS-6017 required -- no manual switches!
And this gives an over-view.
http://www.ross-tech.com/vag-com/interfaces.html
The main difference if you're using it on a Mark V/VI platform only is you don't get turbo mode if you go for the Micro CAN. This is handy for logging data but not essential. I've been thinking of upgrading mine so I can get that feature.
http://www.ross-tech.com/vag-com/tou...cks.html#turbo
Sample Rate: We can get just over 4.0 samples per second from our '97 VR6 ECU (single group) with the the most aggressive protocol-timing settings. This ECU runs at 9600 baud. Most newer ECU's run at 10400 and should give proportionately more. Naturally, if two groups are being displayed simultaneously, the sample rate drops to around 2.0, and 3 groups simultaneously runs at around 1.3. Sample Rate will vary from controller to controller and the PC used will also have some effect.
Some controllers (particularly AG4 transmissions and Digifant-III ECU's) use a "hybrid" data-type that requires reading a long header when changing group numbers. Viewing multiple groups still works with these data types, but the sample rate becomes extremely slow. If you see "Reading Header" all the time under the Sample Rate display, you'll know you've got one of these.
In Engine controllers using KWP-2000, there is a [Turbo] button in Measuring Blocks screen. Pressing this button can significantly speed up sampling, for example over 30 samples per second when logging a single group in our Touareg. Once you have pressed [Turbo] you will remain in this High-Speed mode until you exit the Measuring Blocks screen. This function is only available when using a HEX Interface.
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