Hardware key

Advanced Tubular uses a device called a "hardware key" to control licensing. Others refer to this device as a "dongle." [1]

MANUFACTURER

Advanced Tubular Technologies uses Aladdin Knowledge Systems keys. Aladdin Knowlege Systems is a Tel-Aviv, Israel based company.

The model we use is called the "HASP".

Aladdin product is high quality, and their tech support is excellent. Software support for their hardware keys can be found on this web page: http://www.aladdin.com/support/hasp.asp

KEY TYPES

We use two types of hardware keys on our software - Timed-Limited and Permanent

TIME-LIMITED HARDWARE KEY

Timed Limited hardware keys contains clock and calendar with built-in memory. These keys are used to run software for a limited amount of time. When the expiration date is reached in the key, our software will indicate that the key is expired.

PARALLEL PORT VERSION The PARALLEL port version of the key is molded in blue plastic.
USB PORT VERSION The USB port version of the key is encased in black plastic.

When do we send time-limited keys?

• For systems that are shipped, but Advanced Tubular is still waiting for final payment.
• For demo packages.
• For lease packages where the customer prefers to rent the package for a limited time.
• For OEM customers that use our software for testing purposes.

Is extending the time-limit possible?

Yes. There are many circumstances where extending the time-limit in a hardware key is normal. The keys can be updated through e-mails and internet downloads. (See the process for this below.)

PERMANENT HARDWARE KEY

Permanent keys have no clock, so they never expire. These keys are sent to customers after Advanced Tubular has received full payment for software or hardware systems that have been shipped.

PARALLEL PORT VERSION The PARALLEL port version of the key is molded in white plastic.
USB PORT VERSION The USB port version of the key is encased transparent dark purple or blue plastic. It has a LED that illuminates when active.

REQUESTING A TIME-EXTENSION ON A TIME-LIMITED KEY

When your key expires, then you can make an e-mail request for a time-extension on your key. If we grant you the extension, then we will send you an executable program designed to update your Advanced Tubular time-limited key.

Follow these steps to update your time-limited hardware key if it has expired.

STEP 1 Download the KEYCHECK program.	The KEYCHECK program is available at our web site at this address: http://www.advancedtubular.com/key/Keycheck.exe
USB PORT VERSION The USB port version of the key is encased transparent dark purple or blue plastic. It has a LED that illuminates when active.