Q0003: The Serial Number Manager wants an FCode!

See also: [ What is an FCode? ]

Q: I am upgrading from my older All Topo Map set to the new Version 7 product. When I enter my old serial number, the program asks for an 'FCode'! I don't have one, what should I do?

A: There are two kinds of serial numbers for All Topo Map products:

• 16-character V6 Serial Numbers: 8789-9945-1004-4316
• 20 or 21-character V7 Serial Numbers: 28789-0000-9945-1004-4316

It is not possible to interchange 16-character and 20-character serial numbers. Often, if you enter a 16-character V6 serial number into the form reserved for 20-character V7 serial numbers, the program will request an FCode.

To recover from this situation, press the 'Cancel' button , then select the menu item "Add Pre-V7 SN Key":

The "Previous Version Serial Number" dialog will be shown:

Enter your 16-character serial number in the boxes. If the serial number is a PLS Tool or BigTopoPro serial number be sure to check the provided box.

What is an FCode?

We have traditionally provided sample copies of All Topo Maps for our retail partners to install for 'in-store' demos. These copies are typically left on counters so that customers can checkout the manuals, disks and contents.

Surprisingly, over the years we have found that 20% of these demo copies are removed from the store and later re-registered under another name.

FCodes prevent this from happening. When the serial number for a FCode tagged product is entered, the user must call iGage and provide the full serial number and the MCode (unique machine code). The factory looks up the serial number, checks the owner and generates a unique FCode that unlocks the serial number. It is a pain, but it does work well.

On another note, if your All Topo Map set is stolen, give us a call and if you registered it we will

• put a hold on the serial number
• replace your map set at no charge

02/12/2004 16:36