March 2006
FastCAM Software for Profiling and Estimation

FastCAM e-Newsletter

March 2006

FastCAM e-Newsletter, Free to Subscribers

Issue# 17 




FastCAM Inc. has a no-spam policy.    This newsletter was sent to you as a registered customer or subscriber.    News is strictly industry and product related.
Read our privacy statement


Warning: Hardware changes can void Security Settings!

Major hardware changes and operating system upgrades can negate software security settings and passwords in certain FastCAM software products.

We discuss what products are affected and explain how to avoid problems.

IN THIS ISSUE

 
  • How major changes to your PC can void your Security Settings
  • How Products that use Dongles are affected
  • How Products that use inbuilt Passwords are affected
  • Instructions on how to Disable the Licensing Program before you change your hardware
  • FastCAM Product Registration and Re-Activation Policy
  • How to Contribute
  • Subscribe/Unsubscribe information


Q. Can't I just use the same Password or get another one?

A. FastCAM has over 40 products so it depends on the one you purchased. We use several methods of security for different products and we also have strict licensing and pirating control policies in place. Please keep reading.


One anti-piracy method we use is the physical hardware lock or 'dongle'. The software will only run when it finds the dongle attached to your PC. There are two types of holders. The 'block' shape is for computers with parallel ports. The longer shape is for newer computers and laptops with USB ports.

FastCAM programs that use a physical hardware lock or dongle are:
FastCAM FastPLOT FastNEST FastSHAPES FastTRACK FastCOPY *FastLINK

What happens if you make changes to your PC and you use one of these 'dongles'?

Changes to your network card or any other internal hardware, upgrading your operating system etc should make no difference. If you buy a complete new PC then just make sure that you remove the dongle from the old PC and attach it to the new one.

If you require a USB dongle you only need to purchase a new holder (outer case) from us. We will also send a simple instruction sheet on how to transfer your unique ID 'button' from one holder to another.

Note: *FastLINK has two versions - one uses a dongle and the other a password. This product is not yet compatible with USB technology.


Another type of security control is the use of Activation and Registration Codes (Passwords). These codes are keyed in when you first install and purchase the program. They are stored in memory and invisible to the user. Many popular desktop applications today use this type of anti-piracy protection.

As a secondary measure of licensing control, some passwords are linked to the unique 'footprint' of a particular computer.

Consequently, major hardware changes and operating system upgrades can sometimes cause problems.

FastCAM programs that use password protection are:
FastCAM Quote Everything FastCUT FontGEN Outline Tradesman in a Box FastBEAM.


DISABLE the licensing program before you make major changes to your PC!

If you have a product that uses Password Protection and are making major changes to your internal hardware (including changing network cards), you must first disable the licence.

This is the process. Firstly, you need to create a 'disable code' (*see instructions below). You need to send this code to FastCAM together with your serial number (shown on the same license screen). Now make your hardware changes and then re-install the software. When prompted, enter the same Activation Code (as shown on the original CD). The program will automatically generate another unique serial number based on your new hardware. Send FastCAM this number so that we can send you back a new password. The final step is to enter the new password.

This is the recommended method because you can change hardware as many times as you like. From a licensing control perspective, we still view it as one Registration Code.

*Download our 3-step instruction sheet - How to disable a FastCAM Software License.

What if I forget?

In certain circumstances you can get permission from us to reactivate your software. However, reactivations are strictly controlled to ensure adequate security of the software. You will need to contact us to obtain a Request Form for a Re-Activation Code. Limits, conditions and charges may apply.

FASTCAM PRODUCT REGISTRATION & RE-ACTIVATION POLICY


We're interested in hearing from customers and resellers! If you have news or can suggest a topic that you think will be of interest to our reader base, we invite you to email us!


Copyright 2006, FastCAM Inc.


To subscribe
[Subscribe ]
             
To unsubscribe
[Unsubscribe]
             
To forward this newsletter to a friend or colleague
Simply use the FORWARD option in your email menu.
             
Online issues can be found at
http://www.fastcamusa.com/new/news
Archive issues can be found at
http://www.fastcamusa.com/new/news/archives

FastCAM Inc.
Worldwide Locations

 

Copyright (c) 2006, FastCAM Inc.

We attribute much of our productivity increase to FastCAM ..Phil Ryan, JCA Fabrication.          I'd never done a drawing before in my life. After 10 days with FastCAM, I built the first tank truck. Now it's our livelihood....Ray Castleberry, Castlebrook Welding.           By far, the quickest and easiest programs I have used......Rick Presseau, INCO Ltd.
About Us Email us Legal Privacy Policy