Knowledge Base

Problem

A software-based license (SBLK) is not functioning correctly and cannot be activated or used. As a resolution, the SBLK is replaced with a USB hardware dongle license.

Details

In some cases, an SBLK license may be persistently unactivatable or otherwise faulty (not caused by standard activation errors or wrong-PC issues). When troubleshooting steps fail to resolve the SBLK problem, Noldus support may issue a replacement USB hardware dongle license as an alternative. This has been applied in at least two separate cases at different institutions. This is distinct from standard SBLK activation troubleshooting.

Solution

1. If your SBLK license cannot be activated after following standard troubleshooting steps (see 'Software-Based License (SBLK) Activation Fails' and related articles), contact Noldus support.
2. Inform support that standard SBLK activation steps have not resolved the issue and request evaluation for a hardware dongle replacement.
3. Noldus support will assess the situation and, if appropriate, arrange for a replacement USB hardware dongle to be shipped to you.
4. Once received, install the Sentinel HASP dongle driver if not already installed (see 'USB Hardware Dongle Not Recognized – Driver Installation').
5. Insert the dongle into a USB port on your EthoVision PC. EthoVision will detect the dongle license automatically on startup.
6. Confirm that the licensed version and modules match your entitlement. If there is a mismatch, contact Noldus support.