VOCOM vs VOCOM II — The Right Interface for Your TechTool Setup
Volvo makes two diagnostic communication interfaces: the original VOCOM (part number 88890020) and the current generation VOCOM II (part number 88890300). Both work with TechTool PTT 2.8.241, but the differences matter — especially for Windows 11 users and shops working on 2021+ Volvo and Mack trucks.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | VOCOM (88890020) | VOCOM II (88890300) |
|---|---|---|
| PTT 2.8.241 support | ✅ Full | ✅ Full |
| Connection to PC | USB only | USB + Wi-Fi |
| Windows 10 drivers | ✅ Stable | ✅ Stable |
| Windows 11 drivers | ⚠️ Problematic | ✅ Supported |
| GHG21 D13TC support | ✅ via USB | ✅ Full |
| Wi-Fi diagnostic mode | ❌ | ✅ 2.4GHz / 5GHz |
| Firmware updateable | Limited | ✅ Full via PTT |
| Multi-ECU sessions | ✅ | ✅ Faster |
| VMware passthrough | ⚠️ Works but needs care | ✅ USB or Wi-Fi |
| Introduced | ~2007 | ~2016 |
VOCOM (88890020) — Original Interface
The original VOCOM is still widely used in shops that bought it years ago and haven’t needed to upgrade. It is fully functional with PTT 2.8.241 on Windows 10. However:
- Windows 11 driver signing issues are widely reported on forums. Many technicians find it easier to keep a Windows 10 machine specifically for VOCOM rather than fighting the Win11 driver problem.
- No Wi-Fi mode — you’re physically tethered to the truck at all times.
- Firmware update capability is more limited than VOCOM II.
If you already own VOCOM and run Windows 10, there is no functional reason to upgrade for most diagnostic work.
VOCOM II (88890300) — Current Generation
VOCOM II is the current production interface and what Volvo now includes with new dealer tool kits. Key advantages:
- Wi-Fi mode: Connect VOCOM II to the truck’s OBD port, then use Wi-Fi to connect PTT on the laptop — no cable running from laptop to truck. Useful for underhood work or when you need to move around the truck during diagnostics. PTT 2.8.241 supports VOCOM II Wi-Fi natively.
- Windows 11 support: Volvo has certified VOCOM II drivers for Windows 11 as of the latest driver package release. Most forum reports confirm stable operation.
- Faster multi-ECU polling: VOCOM II has improved USB throughput, which noticeably speeds up sessions on Volvo VNL trucks with 10+ ECUs (engine, gearbox, VECU, cab, I-Shift, ADAS, etc.).
Wi-Fi Mode Setup — VOCOM II
- Connect VOCOM II to truck OBD port and power on (truck key ON)
- VOCOM II creates a Wi-Fi access point — SSID: “VOCOM-XXXXXX” (last 6 digits of serial)
- Connect laptop Wi-Fi to VOCOM II network
- Open PTT → Connection → select “VOCOM II Wi-Fi”
- PTT connects over the local Wi-Fi — range approximately 10 meters
Forum note: Keep the laptop connected to VOCOM II Wi-Fi only during the session — if the laptop has both a Wi-Fi and Ethernet connection, Windows may route PTT traffic through the wrong interface. Disconnect other networks during sessions if you experience connection drops.
VMware Considerations
For VOCOM (USB): standard USB passthrough in VMware — same approach as other RP1210 adapters. For VOCOM II in Wi-Fi mode: the VM uses the host’s Wi-Fi adapter to connect to the VOCOM II network. Configure VMware to use bridged networking mode so the guest VM can access the VOCOM II Wi-Fi network directly. USB passthrough is not needed in Wi-Fi mode.
Which One to Buy in 2025?
If buying new: get VOCOM II (88890300). The Wi-Fi capability, Windows 11 certification, and future-proofing make it the right choice for any new shop setup. If you already own VOCOM (88890020) and run Windows 10 — keep it. Both work equally well for PTT diagnostics on current vehicles.
Conclusion
VOCOM II is the superior interface for new setups, particularly for Windows 11 compatibility and Wi-Fi freedom. For shops already running VOCOM on Windows 10, there’s no urgent need to upgrade. See our system requirements guide for full driver installation steps.