PASoft/BMW help

[Not_Special]

So I've had this PASoft BMW Scanner v1.4.0.7 since last year and have used it about 8 months ago with no issue. I've recently got a check engine light and I wanted to see what was going on.
When I try to scan, I get a popup that says "Error Hardware is not ready." I've checked the drivers and all appears to be updated and should work.
Any ideas why this is happening?
I did check Settings and under the Hardware status is shows green for the device drivers, but below it shows yellow for 'BMW scanner is not plugged in.'
I've checked it over many times and the cable is plugged in and the unit is plugged in. Could it be that the cable has gone bad or even the scanner?
Has this happened to anyone and how was it resolved? Help please.

[BMWCurves]

I vaguely remember that happening when plugged into the car when the ignition isn't turned to position 2. But it may be specific to the laptop.

[PdZHP]

I see that message when I use a different usb port. My cable only works on the one specific usb port, not any of the other three on my laptop.

[Not_Special]

Hmm. I've tried all ignition positions and even tried different usb ports on the laptop. It's the same laptop that I used before. I'm baffled.

[pedro2u]

do you have access to another E46 to determine if it's your car of PA Soft that's the issue?

[Not_Special]

do you have access to another E46 to determine if it's your car of PA Soft that's the issue?

No I don't. I don't know anyone with an E46. :(