How to force return a PME 2021 or newer license

Issue
A license is not able to be returned using the License Configuration Tool or a server crashed and the license is still considered active inside the Sales Portal.

NOTE: Starting from PME 2021 and going forward, the License Configuration Tool is used for license configuration and has a different process to force return licenses than the Floating License Manager.

Product Line
PME 2021
PME 2022
PME 2023

Environment
License Configuration Manager

Cause
When a license is activated using the online method and later the connection to the SE licensing backend is permanently severed, then it cannot be returned with the License Configuration Tool.

A server crash does not tell the Licensing Portal that a license is no longer in use.

Resolution
A license can be forced returned by following the steps below:

1. Email SalesPortalSupport@se.com the relevant activation ID and request that it be manually released
2. After receiving confirmation that the licenses have been released follow the next steps:
   1. Close the License Configuration Tool, as well as any Power Monitoring Expert applications that may be open
   2. Open File Explorer and confirm show Hidden Items are checked:
   3. ​​​​​Use the above screenshot to verify that the "ProgramData" folder is visible, then navigate to "C:\ProgramData\Schneider Electric\Power Monitoring Expert\License"
   4. Delete all the hidden files in this "License" folder
   5. Relaunch the License Configuration tool
   6. Activate the license using the offline method

Released for:Schneider Electric Nigeria