I will start out with I am a computer idiot. I have only really ever used apple products and a PC gives me major anxiety! I want to have something for my 09 LS and have looked at the tech stream threads. But, I can never get a clear read on what cable to get with what software, when there is a problem I have to change "drivers" "users", etc etc. I honestly don't even know where to start on a PC with that. I do have an older PC that I have BMW and Audi software on and I use it occasionally for the other cars. I fumble my way through it but always with a bit fo anticipation. I am looking at this scanner. I know it is significantly more money that what I can get tech stream for, but it seams user friendly and gets good reviews. Would appreciate others opinions without this spiraling. Ready, set, go.....

 

If you want to have advanced functionality, you will have to pay more for it - http://www.drewtech.com/mongoose/toyota2.html

Very often, $20 cables do not allow you to run active tests especially anything connected to ABS, transmission etc.

 

Anfanger makes a good point. If you want to use all capabilities of Techstream, the $500 cable will perform well as it is pro industry standard. For many, advanced functions are rarely if ever used. In that case, the Chinese cables on E bay might work. If your laptop is 32 bit, the older driver cables may work but if you have 64 bit PC, the cables with the updated drivers are required. Like most Chinese products nowadays, quality varies. Buy from a USA source, this way E bay guarantee is easy is implement in case it doesn't live up to the description.