License pool and machine licenses
The PDMShell add-in can use either a vault license pool or the local PDMShell license installed on a workstation. Choose the mode that matches how users run PDMShell automation in the vault.
License pool
Use Use license pool when the vault should manage PDMShell add-in access centrally.
In pool mode, administrators add license keys in Manage PDMShell Licenses. The vault can then borrow from the enabled, activated licenses when users run add-in automation.
Pool mode is useful when:
- Multiple users need access to PDMShell add-in commands.
- You want license access controlled from the vault.
- You want to see active borrows by vault, machine, and user.
- You do not want every workstation to manage its own local PDMShell license.
The Active borrows table in the license manager shows current pool usage.
Machine license
Use Use this machine's license when the add-in should use the local PDMShell license installed on the workstation.
Machine license mode is useful when:
- A small number of administrators run PDMShell add-in automation.
- The workstation already has an activated PDMShell license.
- You do not want the vault to manage pooled license keys.
In this mode, license activation is handled on the workstation through the normal PDMShell license settings.
Which mode should I use?
| Scenario | Recommended mode |
|---|---|
| Many PDM users need add-in scripts | License pool |
| A shared vault should control add-in license access | License pool |
| One administrator runs scripts from a licensed workstation | Machine license |
| You already activate PDMShell on each workstation | Machine license |