What is SoftKey Licensing? 

SoftKey is a software licensing program for EasyMatch QC that enables the user to license the software to work with a specific sensor. Similar to Microsoft products, the license is supplied by HunterLab and coded into the software to register the product.  Prior to December 2016, HunterLab has been using a USB hardware key system (Sentinel Key) but will be migrating to this new way of licensing software. 

What is a USB Sentinel Key?

HunterLab has been using the USB hardware (Sentinel Key) prior to December 2016 to activate the license of Easy Match QC.  These USB’s are often labeled ‘SafeNet’ and are required to be in the USB port when EasyMatch QC is opened.  If the USB key is removed, then an error message will appear and EasyMatch QC cannot be used.

The USB Sentinel key is issued for a computer installation of EasyMatch QC and can be used with a number of HunterLab sensors.

What is the difference between SoftKey License and the USB hardware key? 

SoftKey is a software license that is used instead of the Sentinel hardware key.  Both often take the form of a USB key. 

The SoftKey License is uniquely associated with the sensor serial number.  The SoftKey License requires activation once EasyMatch QC is installed.  To install the SoftKey License, please see the EasyMatch QC Quick Start Guide.

The Sentinel key is a USB hardware key that works with an installation of EasyMatch QC on a specific computer and must be left in the USB port to use EasyMatch QC.  This key is often labeled ‘Safenet’. The installation path for both are similar. 

How do I tell if I have SoftKey vs Sentinel Key?

All systems prior to December 2016 have the Sentinel hardware key.  After December 2016, SoftKey Licenses have been issued for new installations of EasyMatch QC.  If applicable, software package should show a license number as part of the documentation for SoftKey.  In addition, the USB included with the package should show an ‘skl’ file for SoftKey.  Otherwise the USB would be labeled ‘SafeNet’ and function as the Sentinel hardware key.

How do I use the SoftKey License? 

Once the SoftKey is activated, the license will function transparently to the user.  Installation and activation steps include:  1) Install EasyMatch QC, 2) Register SoftKey License, 3) Install the color measuring sensor, 4) Standardize and measure samples.  To view the current version of your software, go to EasyMatch QC>Help>About. 

How do I install the SoftKey License? 

To install EasyMatch QC with the Softkey License, please follow the directions in the EasyMatch QC Quick Start Guide.

How do I get help with installing the SoftKey License?

For immediate service and support 24/7, please use the support.hunterlab.com site.  For more information on the SoftKey License, please review the FAQs and the Quick Start Guide for EasyMatch QC.  If you need additional assistance, click on the "Create a Support Request" button at the top of this page.

What if I have been using the USB Sentinel key in the past?

If you have been using a Sentinel key with EasyMatch QC in the past and are adding a sensor to the same computer, then a SoftKey License is not required.  If, however, you are adding a new computer and sensor, then a new SoftKey License is required for the new system.

How do I know if I have a Sentinel Key?

If you have been using EasyMatch QC prior to December 2016, then you have a Sentinel hardware key in one of the USB ports of your computer.  Please look for this device.  If removed, then EasyMatch QC will no longer run on your computer.

I am installing a new computer with EasyMatch QC, which key do I need?

If you are installing a new version of EasyMatch QC onto a new computer and you have been running EasyMatch QC prior to December 2016, then the key is the hardware Sentinel key and it must be removed from the old system and put into the USB port of the new computer.

If you are replacing the computer system for EasyMatch QC, but have been running EasyMatch QC prior to December 2016, then the key is the hardware Sentinel key.  This key must be removed from the old system and placed into the USB port of the new computer.

If I am upgrading EasyMatch QC, can I use the USB Sentinel key that I have?

A Sentinel hardware key was issued (prior to December 2016) for an individual computer.  This key resides in one of the USB ports.  So, If you are installing a new version of Easy match QC onto the same computer, then you can continue to use the Sentinel key. 

If I am upgrading EasyMatch QC, can I use the USB Sentinel key that I have?

A Sentinel hardware key was issued (prior to December 2016) for an individual computer.  This key resides in one of the USB ports.  So, If you are installing a new version of Easy match QC onto the same computer, then you can continue to use the Sentinel key. 

I am replacing the sensor on the same computer:  which key do I use?

If you are replacing the sensor on a computer that has been running EasyMatch QC, then you have a Sentinel key and have also been sent a new SoftKey License for the new sensor.  Either key will work and the choice is up to you.

How do I get a SoftKey License for a 30-day trial?

To try out the EasyMatch QC software for 30 days, one can register for a temporary Softkey License.  After installation of EasyMatch QC, the 30-day trial is selected during registration.  Fill out the form and submit your information HunterLab.  The trial license is then issued for the limited period of time.