License Pool
Use a license pool when a SOLIDWORKS PDM vault should manage PDMShell add-in access centrally.
In pool mode, administrators add PDMShell license keys to the vault from Manage PDMShell Licenses. The vault can then borrow from enabled, activated licenses when users run PDMShell add-in automation.
When To Use A License Pool
Use Use license pool when:
- Multiple PDM users need access to PDMShell add-in commands.
- A shared vault should control who can use add-in automation.
- You want license access managed from the Administration Tool instead of each workstation.
- You want to review active borrows by vault, machine, user, and borrowed time.
How Pool Borrowing Works
When a user runs PDMShell automation from the add-in, the vault checks the enabled, activated licenses in the pool. If a seat is available, the add-in borrows a license for that user and machine.
The Active borrows table in Manage PDMShell Licenses shows the current pool usage.
Manage Pool Keys
Open the SOLIDWORKS PDM Administration Tool, expand the vault, open the add-ins list, locate the PDMShell add-in, right-click it, and select Manage PDMShell Licenses.
From the license manager, administrators can:
- Add one or more PDMShell license keys.
- Enable or disable keys.
- Activate keys when activation is required.
- Delete keys from the vault license list.
- Review active pool borrows.
When Not To Use A Pool
A pool may not be necessary when only one administrator runs PDMShell automation from a workstation that already has an activated local license. In that case, use a Machine License.