Knowledge Base

Problem

When entering an EthoVision SBLK activation key, the activation fails or produces an error even though the key appears correct and has not been used before.

Details

Residual or corrupted license text files in the Windows ProgramData folder can interfere with the SBLK activation process, causing valid keys to be rejected or activation to stall. This can occur after a failed previous activation attempt, a version reinstall, or a partial uninstall. Affected versions: EthoVision XT 18 and 19 with SBLK licenses.

Solution

1. Close EthoVision completely.
2. Navigate to the ProgramData folder (typically C:\ProgramData\Noldus — note this folder may be hidden; enable 'Show hidden items' in Windows Explorer).
3. Locate and delete any license-related text files in the Noldus or EthoVision subfolder (e.g., files with .txt extensions related to licensing or activation).
4. Restart EthoVision and attempt activation again with your SBLK key.
5. If activation still fails, contact Noldus support — remote assistance may be required to identify and remove the specific blocking files.
6. As an alternative, Noldus support can run a 'license cleaning tool' remotely to remove residual license data and allow clean activation.