Instrument Manager™ (IM) License Files are a key component to ensuring your IM functions properly.
NOTE If this is your first time seeing the term IM License File, we suggest reading the December 2020 article titled “Licensing and Installation” as it provides a foundational understanding of the specific files needed for IM.
Now before we delve further into IM License Files, you may need clarification between license files and security keys. If so, let’s use a car example to better illustrate an IM License File.
- Imagine IM as a car.
- License files are like your driver’s licenses.
- Security keys are like the car keys.
License files and security keys are two independent things, but you need both to drive a car. With that image in mind, license files are just that: a license for your IM to work properly.
So, what exactly are IM License Files? It is a catch-all term for the three files (license.cache, cache.key, and IM-License.rpt). In particular, “license.cache” and “cache.key” are the two important files needed. The IM-License.rpt is a file detailing your system’s licensed features.
You can open IM License Files by using Notepad. We recommend only viewing them because editing can lead to unexpected behavior from the license files.
Here is a Q&A for common license file questions:
- Can I use my license files for a different IM version?
License file versions should not be cross matched. For the best IM experience, ensure your IM version matches your license file version. Example: If the version is 8.17.10.06, this should be found on both of your license files. - How do I check my license version?
You will receive an email from our Sales team that includes both the license files and your license version. You may have spotted the “License Generator” and the “IM Core” if you opened your IM-License.rpt file, but this information does not reflect the true version you are using. - How do I upgrade my license file?
You can email your region’s Data Innovations (DI) Sales representative. Please include:- IM License NumberSite NameWhat IM version you are inWhat IM version you will be upgrading toIf you plan to change from USB Hardkey to Softkey
- Do I need to renew my license?
This depends on whether you have an expiring license or a perpetual license. To determine if your license is expiring or perpetual, you can check the Expiration Date of your license file by viewing it in Notepad. If you are unsure, you can check with your assigned implementation resource or sales representative. If your license is perpetual, you do not need to change the license files, unless you plan to upgrade. If your license is expiring, we suggest contacting your assigned implementation resource or sales representative for further assistance of the renewal. - My license files are in the correct folders, but when I start IM, it says missing files. Why?
Folder permissions are a common cause of this. IM needs to be given permission to read the files inside the folder. You can try ensuring the SYSTEM user has Full Control to both the Instrument Manager and Intersystems folders. Once you do, restart Cache and startup IM again. - Do I need a different license file for my shadow/mirroring PC?
You do not need a different license file for the shadow/mirroring PC, you use the same license file as Primary
The IM Getting Started Guide and Installer’s Guide have detailed steps regarding the license files and how to install them. If your IM has shadow/mirroring setup, you can also refer to the Shadow/Mirroring Manuals on how license files interact with your Backup system. Access these files where you download other products and product-related documentation, typically through either My DI Community or the Customer Web Portal (CWP).
If you have further questions, feel free to contact your regional support team or your sales representative for assistance and we would be happy to clarify.