TubeCAD Tech Document #7

Advanced Tubular Technologies

TubeCAD Tech Document #7:

Network TubeCAD: One key with multiple workstations

Document For: Network Administrators

Software Version: 5.8 Revision L and newer

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STANDARD TUBECAD

TubeCAD includes a hardware key that is installed to the computer's parallel printer port. If your computer is on a network, then TubeCAD will only run on the node that the hardware key is installed to.

Some companies install copies of TubeCAD to multiple workstations in a department and then share the hardware key as each worker needs to use TubeCAD. They even purchase a longer 25-pin cable that extends the Parallel port to the top of the desk in order to make moving the hardware key easier.

NETWORK TUBECAD

Obviously, moving a hardware key on a regular basis isn't the preferred solution for some companies. Some network administrators want TubeCAD to be available to multiple nodes on the network without the inconvenience of physically moving the key.

Also, since the hardware key is valued at the cost of a TubeCAD package, a "floating" hardware key may be an unacceptable security risk.

This problem is solved using the TubeCAD NETWORK OPTION which consists of a special hardware key and its software that is accessed by anyone on the network.

The special key manages who can use TubeCAD and when they can use it by tracking users as they sign-on and sign-off TubeCAD. For example, if you were to purchase one TubeCAD seat with the network option, then any node on the network can access TubeCAD on the network as long as no other node is already accessing the program.

If a second license for TubeCAD were purchased, then the hardware key would be updated to recognise two simultaneous sessions of TubeCAD on your network.

Using this option, the key can be installed to any node on the network. A network driver is installed directly to the server that controls the key search/login/logout process. TubeCAD is installed to each node that will potentially be using the software.

The current cost for this option is a one-time charge of $2000. (Prices are subject to change.)

Written by Michael Cone
Advanced Tubular Technologies

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