Knowledge Base

The Observer XT 17: Switching from Dongle to Software Based Licensing

Deactivating Your Dongles

Thanks for letting us know which dongles you would like to convert to a software-based license.

The next step is to deactivate the dongle key(s) and confirm the deactivation by sending the requested screenshots.

Please Read This First

• Deactivation of the dongle(s) cannot be reversed.
• Once deactivated, dongles have a 5-day grace period before expiring and becoming inactive.
• Once you upgrade to a software-based license you will not be able to work in projects in any earlier version of The Observer XT.
• If you are upgrading from an earlier version, please open that version and make backups of your projects via File > Make Backup. Backups (*.VPB files) can be opened in The Observer XT 17 via File > Restore Backup.
• Complete this process (emailing information back and forth with Noldus) within 5 days to avoid losing access to your Observer license(s).
• If you run into any issues, please submit a support ticket on the MyNoldus client portal.

Step 1: Install The Observer XT 17

If you are upgrading from an earlier version of The Observer XT, download and install The Observer XT 17 first.

Download the installation file: The Observer XT - Setup - 17.0.1300.exe

Alternatively, you can download from MyNoldus:

1. Log in or create a new account.
2. Go to: Downloads > The Observer > Versions > Current Version > The Observer XT - Setup - 17.0.1300.

Locate and double-click on The Observer XT - Setup - 17.0.1300.exe to install.

Step 2: Deactivate Dongle(s)

Repeat the following procedure with each dongle:

1. Insert the dongle into a USB port.
2. Launch The Observer XT 17.
3. If you are upgrading to version 17, the Enter Upgrade Key box will open. If it does not, go to Help > Upgrade.
4. Enter the provided upgrade keys for the inserted dongle.
5. Enter Key 1 and Key 2 (if needed) and click OK to close.
6. Only fill in the first field for Key 2 despite all fields being active.

Step 3: Send Screenshot(s) of Dongle Expiration

1. Insert the dongle into a USB port.
2. Launch The Observer XT 17.
3. Go to Help > About The Observer XT > License Info.
4. Make a screenshot of the License Information box using Snipping Tool, Snip & Sketch, or Fn-PrintScreen + Ctrl-V.
5. Email the screenshot(s) to [email protected].

You will receive the activation key(s) for your software-based Observer XT license within 5 business days.

If you run into any issues, please submit a support ticket on the MyNoldus client portal.

Source: DanioVision Temperature Control Unit in a Nutshell, Noldus Information Technology