Knowledge Base

Problem

Users want to install EthoVision on more than one computer (e.g., a laptop and a desktop) and are unsure whether this is permitted, how the license behaves across machines, and whether administrative privileges are required to run the software.

Details

Applies to all EthoVision XT license types (USB dongle, SBLK fixed, SBLK floating). Common questions include: Can the software be installed on multiple PCs? Can different Windows user accounts on the same PC run EthoVision? Does running from a non-admin account restrict functionality? Relevant for shared lab environments with multiple users or computers.

Solution

**License behavior by type:**
- **USB Hardware Dongle:** EthoVision can be installed on as many PCs as needed. The dongle must be physically plugged into the PC being used for acquisition or re-tracking. Data analysis (without re-tracking) can be performed on any PC with EthoVision installed, even without the dongle.
- **SBLK Fixed (Computer-Locked):** The license is tied to one specific PC. EthoVision can be installed elsewhere for analysis-only use but acquisition/re-tracking requires the licensed PC.
- **SBLK Floating:** EthoVision can be installed on multiple PCs; whichever PC checks out a seat can use full functionality, provided internet access is available. Only one seat is consumed per active PC.

**Multiple Windows user accounts on one PC:**
1. Administrative privileges are required to *install* EthoVision XT 19, but NOT to *run* it.
2. Standard Windows users can open EthoVision and create, edit, and delete their own experiments.
3. To allow users to edit each other's experiments, an IT administrator should grant 'Modify' rights on `C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\Noldus Information Technology\EthoVision XT 19` (or the equivalent version folder).

**Analysis-only mode:**
- Any PC with EthoVision installed but no active license can open the software in analysis-only (unlicensed) mode to review previously acquired and tracked data without consuming a license seat.