Got it...
the mention of USB reminded me that linux also set up /dev/ttyUSB0 so I linked that to com1 instead and that worked, it now connects.
VCDS-Lite Version: Release 1.2
Friday, 05 July 2019, 20:24:19.
Chassis Type: 8Z - Audi A2
Scan: 01,02,03,08,15,16,17,18,37,45,46,56,57,75,76,77
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Address 01: Engine Labels: 045-906-019-AMF.LBL
Controller: 045 906 019 G
Component: 1,4l R3 EDC 0000SG 1514
Coding: 00002
Shop #: WSC 02138
VCID: 19454E679081
WAUZZZ8Z73N002014 AUZ7Z0B2091955
2 Faults Found:
19463 - Camshaft Position Sensor (G40): No Signal
P3007 - 35-10 - - - Intermittent
17965 - Shareware Version. To Decode all DTCs
P1557 - 35-10 - Please Register/Activate - Intermittent
Readiness: N/A
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Address 03: ABS Brakes Labels: 045-906-019-AMF.LBL
Controller:
Note: Can't Synch Baud Rate
Not ideal, but at least it seems to work the next step is to register I suppose...
Does anyone see anything useful in the output above?