Introduction

Xitron DFE and GPS Workflow systems utilize two separate licenses: a RIP software license and a server license. While this approach provides flexibility, it can sometimes cause confusion when managing licenses or working with support.


This guide explains how each license works and how to identify them when necessary.


DFE and GPS Workflow Licensing Overview
Xitron DFE and GPS Workflow systems use two separate licensing components: a RIP software license and a server license. Both licenses are perpetual and do not expire, but they operate differently.

RIP Software License (Soft Lock)
The RIP software is typically licensed using a Soft Lock license that is installed on the workstation during setup. This license is bound with the PC's hardware and configuration.
Because the license is tied to the computer, significant hardware or operating system changes may cause the license to become invalid. Examples include:
  • Motherboard replacement
  • Hard drive replacement
  • Operating system reinstallation
  • Migration to a new PC
To avoid disruption, licenses can be transferred to another system before hardware changes are made. Once a license has become invalid, a recharge may be required to restore operation and may require a fee to apply the recharge.
This licensing method helps ensure that a license is being used on the intended system and prevents unauthorized duplication.

Server License (Dongle)
Server functionality is licensed separately using a USB hardware dongle.
When the dongle is connected, the server and workflow features are enabled. If the dongle is removed or unavailable, those functions cannot operate.
Unlike a Soft Lock license, the server license is not tied to the PC hardware and is unaffected by operating system updates, hardware upgrades, or computer replacement.

Hard Lock RIP License Option
As an alternative to the standard Soft Lock RIP license, Xitron can provide the RIP license on a USB hardware dongle (Hard Lock).
Benefits of a Hard Lock RIP license include:
  • Not dependent on a specific PC
  • Immune to hardware failures and motherboard replacements
  • Easily moved between supported systems
Considerations include:
  • A damaged or failed dongle can typically be replaced.
  • A lost or stolen dongle cannot be recovered and requires the purchase of a replacement RIP.
Some customers choose to install dongles on internal USB ports within the computer chassis to reduce the risk of accidental removal, damage, or loss.

Service Agreement Coverage
Customers with an active Xitron Annual Service Contract receive coverage for many common licensing issues, including:
  • Soft Lock license recharges
  • Replacement server dongles
  • Replacement of failed Hard Lock dongles
  • Unlimited email support
  • Unlimited web support
  • Unlimited phone support
  • Free upgrades of dot release software
  • 10% Discount on major software upgrades
Lost or misplaced Hard Lock dongles are not covered and require the purchase of a replacement RIP license.

License Identification for Support
Each licensing component within a DFE or GPS Workflow system has its own unique serial number.
These serial numbers may be required when working with Xitron Support for:
  • License transfers
  • License recharges
  • Replacement dongles
  • Service contract verification
  • General licensing assistance
For the fastest service, please have your license serial number(s) available before contacting Xitron Support.
Having the license serial number available before contacting Xitron Support can help expedite the support process.

Locating License Serial Numbers
RIP Software License
The RIP license serial number can be found in either of the following locations:
  • The RIP startup log when the RIP software is launched.
  • The Sentinel LDK Tool installed with the RIP software.
Screenshots and step-by-step instructions for locating the RIP license serial number are provided in Appendix A.
Server License Dongle
The Server License Dongle serial number can be found in the server startup log when the server application is launched.
A screenshot example showing the serial number location is provided in Appendix B.

Summary
The standard Xitron licensing model combines a hardware-dependent Soft Lock license for the RIP software with a USB dongle license for server functionality.
Customers who prefer complete independence from PC hardware changes may choose to license the RIP software on a Hard Lock dongle instead. Each licensing component has its own unique serial number, which should be available when contacting Xitron Support for licensing assistance.

Appendix A - Finding Your RIP License Serial Number
The RIP license serial number can be found using either of the following methods:
Method 1 - RIP Startup Log
  1. Launch the RIP software.
  2. Open the startup log window.
  3. Locate the RIP license information section.
  4. Record the displayed serial number.

 
Method 2 - Sentinel LDK Tool
  1. Open the LDK Tool. To find it just type “LDK” in the search and it should pop up as a choice.
  2. Navigate to the local license information section.
  3. Locate the RIP license entry.
  4. Record the displayed serial number.



Appendix B - Finding Your Server License Dongle Serial Number
Server Startup Log
  1. Launch the server application.
  2. Open the server startup log.
  3. Locate the license information section.
  4. Record the displayed serial number.