OrCAD X License Manager | Cadence

Key Takeaways

• The OrCAD X License Manager handles the license file and license server verification.

• There are configuration options for single-user and network installations.

• The OrCAD X License Manager has tools for troubleshooting licensing issues.

The OrCAD X License Manager has a set of utilities that makes it easy for users to set and configure license settings. While the setup is part of the standard OrCAD X installation, users may sometimes wish to edit settings to account for network or license information changes. The OrCAD X License Manager also contains valuable tools for troubleshooting licensing issues.

OrCAD X License Manager and OnCloud Licensing

OrCAD X License Manager Download and Installation

The OrCAD X License Manager application comes with a set of utilities that configures the license server that authorizes access to OrCAD X and related Cadence applications. During the standard installation process, the installer automatically configures the license server. However, users may want to alter or reconfigure settings through the License Manager utilities at a later time. Note that the license path takes the form of

SERVER <hostname> <host id> <port number>

in the license file. There are two possible installations for the License Manager:

• Standalone - The standalone installation is the typical method for single-user machines.

• Network - The installation allows multiple users to access the license server across the network. With redundant license servers, simultaneous access (up to three users) is possible.

The License Manager only requires a one-time configuration with the license server during the initial setup. However, changes to the workstation or network may necessitate a reconfiguration to validate the handshake between the license server and the license file. Note that products that use the OnCloud license do not require a License Manager installation to mediate the connection between the server and workstation (OnCloud uses an online verification at first login and periodically thereafter). 

To get started with the License Manager, users can download the installation file binaries exclusively through the Cadence Portal:

1. Log into https://downloads.cadence.com

2. Select your operating system

3. Under Releases Locate Lic+Config_Utils(LCU) in the dropdown list or use the search filter

This process installs the License Manager separately from the “standard” OrCAD X installation. However, users may still wish to perform this installation, as it includes some additional tools to help troubleshoot license issues. 

How Users Can Troubleshoot With License Manager

The license server contains three main components (lgmrd.exe, cdslmd.exe, and the license file); the two background processes distribute licenses to clients on a first-come, first-served basis. When users access the license server, they “check out” the license, and the license “returns” to the server when the user exits the Cadence program. When troubleshooting licensing issues, the License Manager can be an invaluable resource:

• Diagnosing launch issues - Verify that the License Manager is running by launching the program, checking the box for “LMTools ignores license file path environmental variables” (found at the bottom of the Service/License File tab), and opening the Server Status tab. Enter cdslmd into the Individual Daemon field and confirm Perform Status Enquiry. To determine whether the server is reachable, open Command Prompt and enter “ping <hostname>”. 

• Dongle licenses  - The dongle's Flex ID needs to match the FLEXID value in the SERVER line of the license file. To check this value, open Run from the Start menu and enter C:\>cd c:\Cadence\LicenseManager (note that the file path given is the default). Then enter lmultil lmhostid -FLEXID. Alternatively, users can instead launch License Manager and locate the FLEXID value in the System Settings tab.

• Debugging - The License Manager automatically logs the session information (including errors during execution) in the debug.log file. Users experiencing repeated or difficult-to-diagnose errors can contact Cadence with the license.dat and debug.log files, along with screenshots of error messages, for a more personalized diagnosis.

Cadence Makes Licensing Easy With OrCAD X

The OrCAD X License Manager automates licensing requirements after the initial setup and installation, making it easy for users to focus on their designs. Interested in learning more? See how Cadence PCB Design and Analysis Software powers today's and tomorrow’s electronic design solutions.