Can I re-format my hard disk drive without getting a new key code for Lookout 6?

[rfoote]

A client tried to install some software on his Lookout 6 machine... The install failed and I want to re-format the HDD.

Will the machine need a new key code?

Thanks

[Ryan.S]

Lookout 6 doesn't use the keycode.

You need the SN and the computerID to get the activation code. If you format the disk, the computerID will change. So, you need to get a new activation code.

[rfoote]

Thanks Ryan

Too bad they didn't use a combo of MOBO serial# and HDD serial#.

Then at least one would have the option of re-formatting the hard disk, but NI would still be protected.

I have clients that are still using 4.5 and 5.1... (And 6 of course, but I mention the earlier versions for sake of example)

If one of those clients loses a computer or HDD or both, they can purchase new hardware and be up and running again, even if NI stops supporting or selling lookout.

The way it is now, we are licensed until NI no longer supports or sells Lookout, and until the hardware fails. After that, the investment, which can be sizable is basically gone.

This has happened over and over in the recording studio business, which I also service.

What were the programmers thinking?

[rfoote]

I wish someone at NI would tell me something to help my customers here... They are asking "What is going to happen when NI drops Lookout?" "What if a HDD fails after the migration to LabView?"

I can tell you that the customers who bought licenses in 2005 and 2006 DO NOT want to change out software just because a PC or whatever fails. Add to that, some one has been calling these customers telling them that Lookout's days are numbered and they should migrate to "**********".

Will NI issue a global unlock code at that point?

[Ryan.S]

I've no idea if we will drop it, as Lookout 6.1 will be released soon. But I don't think we will stop activation service even if we drop Lookout in the future.  I'll talk to someone else on this issue, and maybe give you an answer.

Of course, you can choose to migrate to LabVIEW.

Any way, the customer DO NOT need to change out software just because a PC or whatever fails.

Message Edited by Ryan.S on 11-12-2006 11:38 PM

[rfoote]

Hey Ryan,

While you're at it, see if my clients can get activation on weekends. That's going to be key for some new projects I am working...

I wasn't told anything about 6.1 by the NI rep I talked to.
He just said there were no versions after 6. After that, Labview. Personally, 6.1 is of no immediate use anyway, since we are not jumping on a new OS that easily. Maybe he felt the same way.

We have been left hanging by other major software makers. After dropping certain types/versions, no more support of any kind was available. Not even key disks or activation codes.

Some word about promised activation code service for some years to come would be quite helpful in deciding a path from here that may or may not include NI at this point.
(This will decide for existing clients whether to stay with lookout even though they currently have it)

Not trying to be a pest here, I have been using Lookout since V 2.X and still love programming in it, just that the uncertainty is making decisions very difficult pertaining to my work in 2007. Remember, my clients are getting nervous too, and have been asking me out of the blue what is happening with NI.

[rfoote]

>I'll talk to someone else on this issue, and maybe give you an answer.<

Please do, if it is not too much trouble!

[Ryan.S]

National Instruments continues to invest in the development and support of Lookout. I don't think you need to be this worried about licensing.

You can contact your local sales representative for questions regarding licensing and activation, or refer to your "National Instruments Software License Agreement".