Many CAD/CAM software products have made use of HASP dongles as license activation methods. SigmaNEST was no different. Long-term users of SigmaNEST most probably have been using these dongles for many years and until recently without problem or concern.
As technology and operating systems develop, so does the software that is incorporated with IT infrastructure.
With the latest versions of SigmaNEST, dongles have completely been phased out and replaced by Software License Keys. SigmaNEST users that are on an active subscription maintenance contract with SigmaNEST have been switched over to the latest version as well as have their dongles replaced with the “Soft Keys” (Software License Keys)
If you are still using dongles, what does this mean for you?
The biggest concern for companies using outdated technology is that these old technologies are no longer supported by the principal companies.
Should the dongle be lost, stolen, or broken, It Simply, CAN NOT BE REPLACED.
When upgrading IT infrastructure such as computers to the latest operating system version, such as Windows 10. Compatibility issues also affect the capability of the software. This is one of the reasons why SigmaNEST has moved over to Software License Keys. It has also become a common trend within the CAD/CAM industry
What to do next?
Ideally, we recommend that companies that are still using HASP Dongles update their subscription and get on the latest version of SigmaNEST. This will ensure that you have the full support and that your company is up to date with the industry.
There is, however, a cost related to this. With the recovery cost escalating yearly for the period that the software was not on active subscription, users that have exceeded 5 years being off subscription would have a recovery cost that equates to the same as repurchase value.
The other option would be to have your software insured for the replacement value. Mecad Manufacturing can assist by providing you with a SigmaNEST Recovery Cost quotation for insurance purposes
Will your SigmNEST software just stop working?
No. If your dongle is working, your software will be working. The biggest concern related to the age of the software is the technical support to be given should it be required. All the SigmaNEST software engineers are trained with the latest versions of SigmaNEST with limited insight into outdated software. When training courses are offered and presented to end-users, it is also done making use of the latest version of SigmaNEST.
Why is the cost of the new SigmaNEST software more than when it was originally purchased?
SigmaNEST is continuously developing and improving its product and capabilities. The largest portion of the yearly subscription is the development of the product and keeping it up to date with hardware requirements. One of the biggest benefits of being an active subscriber is the fact that you automatically get the latest versions of SigmaNEST as and when it is released. We would also be able to provide you with a list of Feature Enhancements from your current SigmaNEST Version to the latest release
I have not had any problems over the years and want to continue using SigmaNEST as is.
Why should I be on subscription maintenance?
You can use the product for as long as it works. It is important to also understand that being inactive also comes with limitations. You will not be able to add additional machines, users, or modules at later stages of your business. One of the key reasons for this is due to compatibility issues.
As an example: It is not possible to add a current module like SigmaQUOTE to an older version than what the current suite of SigmaNEST offers.
Who can you contact?
You can send any product replacement/upgrade question to: wouter.stapelberg@mecad.co.za
You can send any support related questions to: snsupport@mecad.co.za
