The USB-eLicenser (formerly "Steinberg Key") is a copy protection
unit (sometimes called "dongle") which is needed to use Steinberg's
software range. With the host applications Cubase, Nuendo and WaveLab,
the USB-eLicenser is already included in the product package. The
USB-eLicenser is also required to run Steinberg VST instruments, but is
not included in the product boxes and must be purchased separately if no
USB-eLicenser/Steinberg Key is already present on the system.
The
USB-eLicenser is actually a tiny computer which stores licenses for
Steinberg products, and is connected to a USB port on your computer. All
current Steinberg products that use a copy protection device use
exactly the same system. The Steinberg copy protection system allows the
storage of several licenses on the same USB-eLicenser. Licenses can
also be transferred between USB-eLicensers with certain limitations.
This can be very useful, for example in the unlikely event of a
Steinberg customer wishing to sell a product.
USB-eLicenser is included with the following products*:>
- Cubase 5/6
- Cubase Studio 5
- Cubase Artist 6
- Cubase Essential 5
- Nuendo 5
- WaveLab 7
USB-eLicenser is not included with the following products:
- HALion 3
- HALion Sonic
- HALion Symphonic Orchestra
- The Grand 3
*This applies only for the full version of the product, as updates do not contain a Steinberg Key (USB-eLicenser).