Microsoft KB Archive/108245

= Pro Tel Advanced PCB Not Compatible with Windows NT =

Article ID: 108245

Article Last Modified on 11/1/2006

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APPLIES TO


 * Microsoft Windows NT Advanced Server 3.1
 * Microsoft Windows NT Workstation 3.1
 * Microsoft Windows NT Advanced Server 3.1

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This article was previously published under Q108245



SUMMARY
Pro Tel for Windows, Advanced PCB, by Pro Tel Technologies does not work at all in Windows NT. Advanced PCB employs a copy protection device known as a hardware key or "dongle." This type of copy protection device is currently not compatible with Windows NT version 3.1. With this device installed on your system's parallel port, you cannot activate the Advanced PCB application.



MORE INFORMATION
Pro Tel for Windows Advanced PCB is a design tool for high-end CAD systems which are used to design printed circuit boards (PCBs). The program does not start unless the copy protection hardware key, or dongle, is installed on the parallel port. Because hardware keys are not currently supported in Windows NT version 3.1, Advanced PCB doesn't activate under Windows NT even when the key is properly installed.

The principle behind a hardware key, or dongle, is that each legitimate copy of a software application will also be sold with a hardware key. The software will use special code to interrogate the key for the correct serial number associated with the purchased product. Hence, unauthorized copies of the software will be detected immediately. Functionally, the dongle acts as a pass-through for any other device connected to the computer's port.

Pro Tel Technologies also markets another Pro Tel for Windows product, Advanced Schematics, which does not require a hardware key for operation. According to Pro Tel, this product does function correctly under Windows NT. The technical support number for Pro Tel Technologies is (800) 544- 4186. The company's mailing address is: 4675 Stevens Creek Blvd., Santa Clara, CA, 95051. The Pro Tel products included here are manufactured by a vendor independent of Microsoft; we make no warranty, implied or otherwise, regarding these products' performance or reliability.

