Summary

GibbsCAM supports several different licensing methods. Knowing which license type you are using is important when troubleshooting licensing issues, registering the software, or moving your license to another computer.

This article explains the different license types and how to identify which one you have.

Table of Contents

Overview

GibbsCAM licenses generally fall into one of four categories:

License Type

Description

Standalone Hardware Key

A USB hardware key (dongle) must be connected to the computer.

Standalone Software (Keyless)

The license is locked to a single computer and does not require a USB hardware key.

Network License (NLO) Client

Obtains a license from an RLM Network License Server over the network.

Network License (NLO) Server

Hosts licenses for one or more client workstations using Reprise License Manager (RLM).

Method 1 – Check for a USB Hardware Key

The easiest way to identify a Standalone Hardware Key license is to check whether a USB license key is required for GibbsCAM to run.

If your computer must have a USB hardware key connected before GibbsCAM will start or produces errors referencing a hardware key, you are using a Standalone Hardware Key license.

Method 2 – Check for a USB Hardware Key

The Registration Tool displays the available licensing options.

If you launch the Registration Tool from the Windows Start menu, the available license types can help identify your installation.

Typical options include:

  • Hardware Locked – Standalone Hardware Key or Standalone Software (Keyless)

  • Network License Client – Connects to an RLM license server

  • Network License Server – Hosts network licenses

These options correspond to the current GibbsCAM licensing methods.

After clicking Run Registration Tool… enter the Product Code and check the Key Information.



Method 3 – Determine Whether You Use a Network License

If multiple users share a pool of licenses from a central server, you are using a Network License (NLO).

Typical characteristics include:

  • GibbsCAM checks out a license when it starts.

  • Licenses are returned when GibbsCAM closes.

  • The License Options dialog may appear during startup.

  • Your IT department or administrator maintains an RLM license server.

Method 4 – Examine Your License File

If you have access to your .lic file, open it using a text editor such as Notepad.

The license file contains information that can help identify:

  • Product Code

  • License type

  • Licensed options

  • Host Information


This information can be useful when contacting CAMCO Support.

Still Not Sure?

If you are unsure which license type you have, gather the following information before contacting CAMCO Support:

  • Does GibbsCAM require a USB hardware key?

  • Is your license shared with other users?

  • Do you connect to a network license server?

  • A copy of your .lic file (if available)

  • Your Product Code, if known

Support can use this information to determine your licensing method.

Best Practices

  • Keep a backup copy of your .lic file.

  • Record your Product Code for future reference.

  • Document whether your installation uses a standalone or network license.

  • If using an NLO license, document the server name and port number.

Keywords

License Type, Standalone License, Hardware Key, USB Dongle, Keyless License, Network License, NLO, RLM, License File, Product Code, Registration Tool