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The other option is to use software that doesn't require a dongle at all ... there are several out there - I use Embird.

An extra on this is that it has a built-in shelf life, as the software versions do. This almost forces you to continue to pay for updates and you can't use it even at the level that you bought it at for very long.

Quote:

Originally Posted by nabobw (Post 5384054)

This is the first time I have heard of a dongle having a shelf life. My frend has been using hers for a lot longer the 4 years. It also does not care about the sewing machine only the software on the computer.

Mine wouldn't work and I was told they don't support 3D any more and needed to update to 4D which would cost me another $1500.00 on top of the $2800.00 I originally paid for the software.I also had extras which came to another $1000.00. Now that there is 5D out, I am not interested in constantly paying that sort of money every few years just to keep the embroidery going, especially when they also have all the copyright nonsense on selling anything you make with it. I traded it in on an ordinary sewing machine which I can afford to replace every now and again.

Joannes, I have 4D software, I have a couple of questions about it, would it be possible for me to pm you?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tartan (Post 5382698)

I was surprised to learn that dongles have a shelf life just like other computer devices. I think it was 3-4 years or until you damage it?

I don't know where you got your information but it is wrong. I have had my Viking Designer 1 since 1995 and my dongle is still working fine.

Quote:

Originally Posted by #1piecemaker (Post 5382545)

First time I heard of this animal. I don't have a clue! My educated guess would be a dangle whose angle is done gone.

I just love your educated guess! LOL!

Thanks for the explanation, I have a Viking Designer SE w/Dongle, didn't really understand the whole concept - now I know!

Quote:

Originally Posted by jitkaau (Post 5386614)

Now this confuses me, just when I thought I understood. I have 4D, but do not have or need a dongle.(at least I haven't yet) How can they "unsupport" a version?Are you saying that you are not able to access what you already have on your computer or smartcard? or that you aren't able to utilize the new designs that are coming out?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tartan (Post 5382698)

I was surprised to learn that dongles have a shelf life just like other computer devices. I think it was 3-4 years or until you damage it?

I have Bernina 1081 and have been using the dongle for 12 years. Half afraid to say it out loud...

Quote:

Originally Posted by baywinds (Post 5387010)

Do you have the 4D that came with your machine or did you purchase it separtely. The one that comes with the machine doesnt require a dongle; it's only when you purchase the software editing software that you need a dongle to access it. There is a difference in supporting a software package and not allowing you to use it. Microsoft only supports it's operating systems for a certain amount of yrs but you can still use them. They no longer support XP but I still have a laptop with it on it and it works great. I think this is where the confusion might be. Supporting verses not being allowed to use it any longer. I don't know but I'll ask my dealer this week when I see her.