I have been using handheld OBD2 readers for years and currently own two. It's time to step it up a bit and start using my laptop as the reader. Ideally, the software should accompany the cable to ensure compatibility. The cables I have seen sell between $4 - $40, but most under $10.
If anyone has been down this road and is successful using their laptop as a reader, I would like to know what product(s) you are using. Operating system is Windows 7.

I found this sale on-line, but would like to get the price down further if possible;
TOTAL OBD Car Diagnostics & Tuning Software | OBD-2 OBD2 Scan Tool Scanner

 

Here's another one.DashCommand - Palmer Performance Engineering, Inc.

 

How about under $25 ? If you really want USB, the OBDWiz package is hard to beat.
Padgett's OBD-II Scanner page
(suppose it is time to update a bit)

I use Bluetooth in my cars and just leave the dongle plugged in. One has been in the Jeep for 2.5 years now. NP.
My XF does have a mini version to keep from hitting my knee.

 

Thanks to both of you for your suggestions....the Padgett site certainly gives you everything you would possibly want to know about OBD! OBDWIZ has my interest and I am currently exploring eBay as well. Bluetooth is the way to go for sure, but using a cable is not a problem for me. As a side note; my daily driver is a Jeep and I find it curious how many Crossfire owners own Jeeps! I personally know of two other Crossfire owners that own Jeeps and have seen Jeep mentioned a number of times from others......Love my Jeep and Love my Crossfire!