OrCAD X Software Requirements and Hardware Requirements

Key Takeaways

• OrCAD X requires a 64-bit Windows OS, such as Windows 10 Professional or Windows Server 2022.

• Optimal performance demands 16 GB of RAM, SSD storage, and a graphics card supporting OpenGL and DX11.

• Licensing options include NIC-based or dongle-based methods, with a configuration utility for server management.

To ensure the best performance in OrCAD X, your system must meet the specified OrCAD X software requirements and hardware specifications. This article provides a detailed overview of the requirements for running OrCAD X and Allegro X 24.1 products.

OrCAD X Software Requirements

For 64-bit Windows systems meeting the OrCAD X software requirements, 64-bit Flex software dongle drivers are required if using dongle-based licensing. Additionally, Allegro X EDM Flow Manager is not supported on Windows Server 2019. Ensure your system meets these specific requirements to avoid compatibility issues.

OrCAD X Licensing Requirements and Notes

Cadence OrCAD X and Allegro X 24.1 products require a valid license file (LICENSE.TXT) issued by Cadence to operate. The licensing system supports two primary methods: 

1. Network Interface Cards (NICs) 

2. and dongles.

NICs are the preferred locking method, as each NIC has a unique address that serves as a hardware lock. However, if using a laptop, ensure the NIC is enabled, as some laptops disable NICs when not connected to a network, preventing the software from running. 

Dongle-Based Licensing

For dongle-based licensing, FLEXid USB dongles (versions 9 and 10) are supported. A Flex ID is a unique identifier associated with a FLEXid dongle. The Flex ID is generated when the dongle is connected to a computer and is used to activate and manage software licenses. The dongle can be moved between systems, allowing the transfer of licenses across different computers.

The dongle must be attached to the appropriate parallel port or USB port before installation. The "Found New Hardware" dialog box will appear when the dongle is first connected to the computer. This dialog is generated by Windows as it attempts to recognize the new hardware. Cancel this dialog, as the dongle drivers will install automatically during the License Manager Installation. 

License Manager Information

The License Manager Installation is part of the Cadence software setup. During the installation process, you will be prompted to install the License Manager. 

You can also configure the License Manager later using the License Client Configuration Utility or the License Server Configuration Utility, accessible from the Start menu under Cadence > License Manager.

Additional Notes on Licensing and Configuration

The License Manager can be configured in two ways: 

• Standalone Installation is used for single-user systems that do not require network access. The License Manager is installed directly on the user’s computer, and the software operates independently of any network.

• A Network Installation is ideal for multi-user environments. The License Manager is installed on a central server, allowing multiple users to access the software simultaneously. Up to three redundant license servers can be configured, ensuring the licensing system remains operational even if one server fails.

License Server Configuration Utility

The License Server Configuration Utility allows you to configure the license server without reinstalling the License Manager. It is used in the following scenarios:

• Replacing an expired license file.

• Adding new licenses for installed products.

• Updating the license server with a new license file.

Steps to Use the License Server Configuration Utility:

1. Open the utility from the Start menu: Cadence > License Manager > License Server Configuration Utility.

2. Specify the location of the Cadence license file or browse to it.

3. Review and modify the license server information if necessary.

4. Restart the license server to apply the changes.

License Client Configuration Utility

The License Client Configuration Utility is used to configure client machines to locate the license server. It updates the CDS_LIC_FILE environment variable to point to the correct license server.

Steps to Use the License Client Configuration Utility:

1. Open the utility from the Start menu: Cadence > License Manager > License Client Configuration Utility.

2. Specify the port and hostname of the license server(s). Multiple servers can be specified using semicolons (e.g., port1@host1;port2@host2).

3. Confirm the update to the CDS_LIC_FILE variable and exit the utility.

For more information about licenses, look to our piece dedicated to explaining OrCAD X licenses.

To ensure your system is ready for OrCAD X, review your hardware and ensure you meet the OrCAD X software requirements. OrCAD X streamlines PCB design with features tailored for performance and reliability. Learn more about how OrCAD X can enhance your workflows by visiting the PCB Design and Analysis Software page.