FAL-RUN-PRU-01-VB - Falcon Premier Runtime USB Dongle

Secure Hardware Licensing for Falcon Systems

The Falcon Premier Runtime Package, USB Key (SKU: FAL-RUN-PRU-01-VB) is a critical component for industrial facilities utilizing Falcon automation and control software. This hardware device, commonly referred to as a dongle, serves as the physical security token required to authenticate and unlock the "Premier" tier of the Falcon Runtime environment. Unlike soft-licenses that are bound to a specific computer's MAC address or hard drive, this USB key offers the flexibility of portability, allowing maintenance teams or operators to transfer the license between compatible terminals or machines as needed, provided the software is installed.

In the realm of industrial MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Operations), managing software assets is just as critical as maintaining physical machinery. The Falcon Premier Runtime key ensures that your operation remains compliant with licensing agreements while granting access to advanced runtime features that are locked in the standard or demo versions. The device is engineered with a robust form factor suitable for shop floor environments, resisting minor dust and handling impact. It utilizes a standard USB Type-A interface, making it compatible with virtually all industrial PCs, HMIs (Human-Machine Interfaces), and control consoles.

This package is specifically designated for the "Runtime" environment. In industrial software architecture, a runtime license typically allows the execution of pre-compiled programs or automation scripts but does not necessarily permit the development or editing of source code (which would require a separate Development license). This makes the FAL-RUN-PRU-01-VB ideal for production machines where operators need to run established processes without the risk of accidental code modification. The key utilizes advanced encryption to prevent cloning, ensuring the integrity of your software investment.

Technical Implementation

Upon insertion into a host machine, the Falcon software polls the USB port for the presence of this specific cryptographic key. Once verified, the Premier feature set—which may include higher axis control limits, advanced data logging, or extended connectivity protocols—is instantly activated. Removal of the key typically reverts the software to a restricted mode or halts operation safely, depending on the system configuration. This physical possession model is preferred in high-security facilities where network-based licensing servers may be unreliable or inaccessible due to air-gapped networks.