Hello, It seems like a lot a lot of folks are having a problem in this area. I'll try to explain. That which you desire WILL NOT WORK. If any old interface cable would work, People would just burn copies of the software CD and go into the simulator business. To protect the program from being copied successfully,the AFPD interface cable has a memory chip with code stored in it. The program won't get past first base without it. The code sent out by the chip tells the software that you are a legitimate user & therefore it is OK to open up & function. If and when you plug in a real AFP or AFPD cable you can then use that cable to run the program or (this is important) while that AFPD cable is STILL PLUGGED IN you can Attempt to use another cord of any brand in a different port on you're computer. I hope this helps. Crowfly