Upgrading from VCarve 7.5 to 8 on used machine?

[JoshBot]

Hey guys,

This is my very first post, and I'd like to thank you all for your input, one of the reasons I bought my ShoptBot was because of this killer forum. I just picked up a used Desktop for a steal and am absolutely in love. I built an enclosure for it and everything, I'll save that for another thread. Here's my questions:

The owner didn't have the thumb drive with the original ShopBot software but he did forward me the email from when he bought the machine in late 2014 and I was able to use that to download VCarve Pro 7.5. He forwarded me another email in which they upgraded the software to version 8.0 since he bought the Bot within the 12 month free upgrade period. This link seems to be dead, or at least comes up with an error, I've tried it on several computers and he tried it also. Is there a way for me to upgrade to version 8.0 that anyone knows of? If not I'll pay for the upgrade because I need to use the inlay function (I build guitars) and I like the features I experienced while using the trial version. I do have the license code for v8 but don't know where I can go to download the new software, any help is much appreciated!

[steve_g]

Josh…
My guess is you’ll get a new link when you pay the $50.00 license transfer fee…
SG

[JoshBot]

Thanks Steve! I searched the Vectric site and found the link to transfer the license, I didn’t even know that was a thing. Thanks again-Josh

[scottp55]

Josh...Don't forget to free upgrade to 8.5*** once you transfer...8.5 was a WONDERFUL upgrade
Is your Desktop a 4"Z, or 5.5"?
If 4", then you might want to contact Nate at Shopbot Sales, an inquire about the 5.5"Z retrofit...Makes it a LOT more useful!
Welcome
scott
Oh, if it's the "Shopbot Edition" then you'll have to go through Nate anyways.

[JoshBot]

Hey Scott! Thanks for the additional info, so if the VCarve is the shopbot edition then the transfer and update goes through Nate? That’s perfect, my interaction with shopbot has been excellent so far. It does have the 4” Z so I’m going to do the 5.5” retrofit. I wanted to go over to a spindle too but after building a full enclosure with dust control it is extremely quiet, and as far as accuracy goes on the practice inlay cuts I’ve done the router is more accurate than my hand inlays ever we’re so I think I’m going to stick with the router for a while.

I’ll be attending the training class this week, excited to learn everything I can from the experts!

[scottp55]

Correct Josh...It's the same exact program as the full Vectric VCP, but only includes Shopbot's Post Processors, so it's cheaper to upgrade(maybe ask about VCP9 price? although 8.5 did all I needed)....Ask Nate whether you have to install VCP8, but if I remember right, VCP 8.5* was a stand alone download link, and you may be able to just do that?
You'll need a straight down close-up pic of the Z-rail to get the right kit(although Nate might be able to tell from the original invoice from the previous owner?)...There were 2 different rails in 4"Z Desktops.
GET a full set of replacement screws for the retro-fit! You may be able to use all the old screws, BUT on my machine I stripped 2 heads(second Desktops retro-fit went perfectly),never hurts to have the extras for future use.
Retro-fit also gives you a Z proximity switch, which gives a really nice Z-Zeroing routine

Max and Lauri used the router set-up with their Desktop to do some Gorgeous work;
http://www.girouardmandolins.com/

Have fun at the training! (Give TJ heck )
Where are you located?
scott