Knowledge Base

Problem

EthoVision XT displays an error stating it is 'unable to reach license server to check out floating license,' even though the computer is supposed to have a fixed (computer-locked) software license, not a floating one.

Details

This error occurs when EthoVision XT is configured to look for a floating license server but the installed license is actually a fixed/computer-locked SBLK license. This typically results from a license mode mismatch during activation — the license was activated in floating mode rather than fixed mode, or the activation was not completed correctly. Affects EthoVision XT 18 and other versions using software-based licensing (SBLK).

Solution

1. Start EthoVision XT. When the license error appears, look for an option to 'Activate software license key' or go to Help > License > Activate.
2. Select 'Fixed – On this computer only' (not Floating) as the license mode.
3. Enter your Activation Key from Noldus and complete the activation process.
4. If you are unable to reach the activation screen because EthoVision is blocked by the error, try launching EthoVision XT and selecting the activation option from the startup dialog.
5. If reactivation does not resolve it, contact Noldus Support to verify the license mode on the Noldus server and have it corrected if needed.
6. After successful fixed-mode activation, restart EthoVision XT and confirm it launches without the license server error.