Knowledge Base

Problem

Users with existing USB hardware dongle (physical key) licenses for EthoVision XT 17 or 18 are unable to upgrade to version 19. Upgrade keys do not work, or users are unsure of the correct procedure.

Details

Upgrade keys for USB dongle licenses are version-specific and key-specific. A common mistake is entering the upgrade key in the older version of the software (e.g., version 18) rather than in the newly installed version 19. Some users also confuse SBLK conversion keys with dongle upgrade keys. Dongle licenses require the physical USB key to be inserted during the upgrade process.

Solution

1. **Install EthoVision XT 19** on the computer. Do not uninstall the old version yet.
2. **Insert the USB dongle** into the computer.
3. **Open EthoVision XT 19** (not 17 or 18). The software should detect that the dongle is licensed for a previous version and prompt for an upgrade key.
4. **Enter Upgrade Key 1 and Upgrade Key 2** when prompted. Note: Upgrade Key 2 may be short (4–5 characters); this is expected. Leave any unused input fields blank.
5. If the upgrade keys were not provided or do not work, contact Noldus support with your license number to receive the correct keys.
6. **Alternative – Convert to SBLK:** If you prefer to remove the dependency on the physical dongle, Noldus support or operations can convert your dongle license to a software-based activation code (SBLK). Once converted, the dongle is deactivated and can be disposed of.