USB dongle authentication is a USB terminal-type hardware with an activation key inside, which is connected to the PC to activate the CAD. There are four main types of license authentication methods for circuit design CAD/PCB design CAD. Not only the originating developer, but also many people around the world can participate in the development. Open source software is based on the premise that 'the source code is publicly available' and 'redistribution is possible. It is often provided as a personal hobby, or by PCB business companies or electronic component online shopping companies for sales promotion. Freeware/Open Source Softwareįreeware/open source software CAD is essentially free to use.įreeware basically does not disclose its source code. Restrictions include board size, number of layers, number of component pads, etc., and it cannot be used for commercial purposes. Free Trial LicenseĪ free trial license allows you to experience the software for free, with some restrictions on the paid license. Subscription LicenseĪ subscription license is the same as a fixed term license in that you pay a recurring cost, but it focuses more on user requests to improve the performance and functionality of CAD.įor example, with video streaming services such as Netflix, there are always new videos available to watch, so the quality of the product offered will increase despite the same monthly cost.ĬAD for subscription license is also thoroughly user-first, with the ability to always use the latest version and easy contract and cancellation. The price structure is easy to understand, but there may be restrictions such as term limits or optional cost for additional features. With a fixed term license, you pay a usage cost every certain period of time. This confusing pricing makes it difficult for the user to understand the overall cost. However, in the case of CAD, there will be periodic costs for maintenance, support, and version upgrade. A perpetual license is a price structure adopted by most CAD vendor.

Altium licence price