How do software-based and hardware-based licenses compare?

Traditionally Noldus has used hardware-based licenses for all of its software, requiring the hardware license key (or "dongle") to be plugged in when using the software. Starting with The Observer XT 16, EthoVision XT 17, and FaceReader 9, we now offer a software-based license as an alternative to the hardware key. A software-based license can be used without a dongle.

Fixed vs Floating Licenses

There are two options for how a software-based license can be used; you can choose between them when you activate the license.

• Fixed: A fixed license is activated on a single computer and then does not need any key or internet connection when the software is used. In this case the software can only be used on that one computer, unless you deactivate the license. Activation and deactivation require an internet connection, but normal use does not require a network connection. (EthoVision XT 17 can also be activated using a QR code and a smartphone, although an internet connection is easier.)
• Floating: A floating license permits the software to be activated on multiple computers. In this case an internet connection is required at all times, and the software will be usable only if it is not already in use on a different computer. However as soon as the application is closed on one computer, it is available to be used on another.

You can switch between the two types of licenses. Just Deactivate the license, then Activate it again using the desired option. Floating licenses provide the most flexibility, but Fixed licenses are convenient when network access is limited or unreliable.

Multiple Seats

In some cases, a license may permit use on multiple computers at once. Each license is limited to a certain number of seats (determined when the license is purchased, but normally one unless additional seats are purchased). For example, a license with 3 seats may be used on three computers at once. You can use any combination of fixed and floating activations; each fixed activation takes one seat all the time, while floating activations only take a seat when the software is open. So for example, if you have 3 seats, a fixed activation on one computer, and floating activations on several additional computers, you could use those floating licenses on two of those computers at a time.

EthoVision XT

If you are using EthoVision XT, please note that, just as in previous versions, you do not need any kind of license if you are only doing analysis of already-acquired data. A license is only needed when acquiring tracks (either from a camera or from a video file), or when creating a new experiment that will use functionality from optional modules (e.g. trial control, multiple arenas). The Observer and FaceReader always require a license to use.