Knowledge Base

Problem

A lab upgrades from an older EthoVision version that used a physical USB dongle license to EthoVision XT 19, which uses a software-based license key (SBLK). Users are unsure of the upgrade process and encounter activation issues because they expect to need a dongle or a special upgrade code.

Details

EthoVision XT 19 licenses are delivered as software-based license keys (SBLK) rather than physical USB dongles. When upgrading from a dongle-based license (used in older versions), Noldus converts the license to SBLK format. Unlike dongle upgrades (which required a special upgrade code to re-flash the dongle), SBLK upgrades only require downloading EthoVision XT 19 from MyNoldus and entering the new SBLK activation code. The physical dongle is no longer needed after conversion. In some cases, the original license may be found to be corrupt or unsuitable for floating mode, requiring Noldus to issue a replacement license code. Affects users upgrading from EthoVision XT versions that used hardware dongles.

Solution

1. Log in to your MyNoldus account at noldus.com/app/home.
2. Download the EthoVision XT 19 installer from the Downloads section.
3. Install EthoVision XT 19 on your computer (the dongle is no longer required for the new SBLK license).
4. During or after installation, launch EthoVision XT 19 and select 'Activate License' when prompted.
5. Choose 'Software activation key (SBLK)' as the license type.
6. Enter the new SBLK activation code provided by Noldus (this will have been sent to you or your account manager as part of the upgrade).
7. If you intend to use a floating license, ensure you select the floating mode option during activation.
8. If activation fails or the code is rejected, contact Noldus support — in some cases the original license may need to be reissued (e.g., if the original was corrupt or not configured for floating mode).
9. The physical USB dongle can be retained for record-keeping but is no longer required for EthoVision XT 19 operation.