SimaPro Support FAQ

Activation is a modern protection method against illegal use of software. It limits the number of installations, by counting the number of activations for each license via a central server. The activation code is unique for each PC-SimaPro combination. No personal data are collected. SimaPro must be activated after installation and whenever a new registration code is entered (e.g. with a service contract renewal or when upgrading to a different version). To activate your license you need an internet connection. Automatic activation is recommended. If you cannot connect to the internet due to security reasons, please contact us.

If you encounter problems with automatic activation (i.e. due to the use of proxy servers in your network) choose manual activation. Here you request an activation code via a web browser or via e-mail. Note that when you choose manual activation, the computer configuration (network, portable drives etc.) must be the same at the moment you generate the activation request and the moment you enter the activation code. Furthermore, you can check whether the activation code is for your computer, each activation code is unique for each PC-SimaPro combination and cannot be used on other computers.

For each license you have a limited number of activations. De-activation is needed to free up an activation.

How to uninstall SimaPro from your computer:

1) De-installation of the software

De-installation of SimaPro on the old computer is needed to free up a software activation. Your computer must be connected to internet while you uninstall. You can uninstall via 'Start'> 'Settings'> 'Control Panel'> 'Add or Remove programs'. During this process the SimaPro database(s) are not removed. It is recommended however that you make a backup of your database(s).

After de-installation you can install SimaPro on the new computer. Make sure you use the latest installation file, so your software and databases are up to date.

With the software, a new Professional or Starter database is also installed (if this database didn't already exist in your database directory). You can choose to continue your work in this new and “clean” database. If you want to continue your work in your “old” database, you can delete or rename the installed database and continue with step 2, moving the database.

2) Moving the database

The easiest way to move a SimaPro database is to make a SimaPro backup of the database. You can do this in SimaPro via 'File'> 'Database management'> 'Back-up'. Transfer the back-up file to the new computer and restore the database ('File'> 'Database management'> 'Restore').

If you choose to move the database manually or via a zip.file, this information is important:

The SimaPro database is installed by default in C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Documents\SimaPro\Database. SimaPro must be closed when you move or zip the database. A SimaPro database consists of 77 numbered files with an *.NX1 extension, which need to be moved together.
 

If you didn't update the database with the last software update (updating the database is a separate step!) please do so now by downloading the SimaPro database update and the update instructions from http://www.pre-sustainability.com/versioncheck. Follow the update instructions carefully.

Finding data that are useful for LCA sometimes looks like finding a needle in a haystack. To help you finding data we offer the following free service: the LCA discussion list: an email discussion list that has become the global LCA forum. It has nearly thousand members that help each other.

To copy a single process, product stage or method from a library to your project, select the item and use the Copy button on the right side of the window. The copied item will open in Edit mode, so that you can rename it to avoid confusion. 

Click the “Show data of all projects” button in the toolbar. The data of all projects you have the rights to view are now shown. Press the CTRL key and select the processes you want to copy to your projects. You can even select data from different categories (but hold down the CTRL key). Next, go to Edit in the menu and select the option “Copy tree”. SimaPro will copy the selected data, including the underlying (upstream) process that are in the project. This is needed as data in projects cannot link to each other, but only to libraries.

To create a new library, you first have to create a new project. To upgrade this project to library status go to Edit in the menu bar and select the “Move to library” option. You can also upgrade an existing project including all data to library status. However, as libraries are independent the data in a library cannot link to data in other libraries. The solution for this problem is to make sure that all data you use in a project link to only one library, and then move the project data to that library instead of a new library.

We do not recommend editing data in libraries, as these may be overwritten with database imports or updates. Instead, copy the data to your project using the Copy button.

If you already have a database called "Professional" please open and rename this database first in SimaPro via: "File> Database Management> Rename". If you do not need this database anymore, you can also backup or move (or even delete) this database via Windows Explorer.

Then download the SimaPro database installer. This program will install a new "Professional" database to the default database location or any other location you specify. If a database called Professional already exists at that location then the program will not overwrite that and no new Professional database is created.

The Monte Carlo sampling data are stored in the computers memory and cannot be saved.

We distinguish between software and database errors. Should you receive an error message, please close SimaPro and restart. Redo your last action and see if the error happens again. If this is the case, please check if you have the latest SimaPro release via Help, Check for Update. If you have the latest release, please send an e-mail to support@pre-sustainability.com with * a screen dump of the error message (or the text) * a clear description of what you did * the version number of your SimaPro version * your operating system

If you get an error saying that your database version is too new for your SimaPro version, make sure you get the latest SimaPro update. You can download it via the “Check for Update” option in the SimaPro help menu. If the problem persists, please check if your service contract has expired. If so, you are not eligible for the latest updates. Contact us to upgrade to the latest version.

With each service contract renewal you receive a new SimaPro registration code. Using this code, SimaPro knows which SimaPro releases you are allowed to install. A message "this release of the software is too new for your service contract" normally indicates that your service contract has expired, and you have not yet entered the latest registration codes received with your renewal. If your service contract indeed has expired and you have not renewed, you are not eligible for the latest updates. Contact us to upgrade to the latest version.

No, because SimaPro is not an expert system that knows the characteristics of new substances. You have to add substances that you create yourself to the method(s) you use. We recommend to make adjustments in a copy of the method(s). You can make a copy of a method by selecting it, then click the copy button on the right side of the method index. A copy of the method will open. Make sure you rename it to avoid confusion. Note that the copy will be saved in the project you work in.

If you are editing a method, you can see if a substance is already used by this method in the select substance window, that pops-up when you click the Add button. Before the substance name are 2 rows. One row indicates if the substance is used anywhere in the method, the other row indicates if the substance is used in the selected category. If you are calculating results, you can see an overview of all substances that are not defined in the selected method in the Checks tab in the results window.

You can create a new method by going to the Methods section and clicking the new button. This will open a new, but completely empty method. The method will be saved in the project you work in. To avoid spending endless time filling the method with substances, you can choose to make a copy of an existing method. Select the method you want to copy, then click the copy button on the right side of the method index. A copy of the method will open. Make sure you rename it to avoid confusion. Note that the copy will be saved in the project you work in. Also, remember that only the original method in the Methods library is updated when an update is available. It is possible to copy complete impact categories from one method to another. Select the category and use Ctrl+C to copy, Ctrl+V to paste.

Using CSV files you can exchange single or multiple processes as well as methods. Export of product stages is not supported. You can export and import SimaPro CSV files via File, Import or Export. Use the Database import and export feature to transfer complete projects to another user. Note that for database consistency your project will be exported including the libraries and methods it is using. These libraries will overwrite existing libraries and methods at the importing user. You can export and import SimaPro files via File, Import SimaPro database or Export SimaPro database.

Currently SimaPro only supports EcoSpold import and export in SimaPro Analyst, SimaPro Developer and SimaPro PhD.

SimaPro does not support license management systems, due to the large variety of systems. Please contact us to find the best way to install SimaPro.

The latest SimaPro installation file can be dowloaded here.

If you use a Windows emulator and have sufficient memory, SimaPro should work on Macintosh and Linux systems. We do not guarantee full functionality. We also do not provide technical support related to non-Windows systems.

SimaPro can be run on a Citrix application server.

One installation is allowed for each user license. We use software activation to prevent illegal installations. The SimaPro Faculty license allows students and or staff to install a Single User version of SimaPro, provided it is used for educational use only. For the SimaPro Classroom client-server license, the client can be installed as often as needed.

We do not use expensive copy protection keys or dongles, that get lost or stolen. Instead, we use an advanced software activation. In this process no personal details are collected. For more information see the FAQ on activation.

It is possible to install clients on each workstation. However, this means you also have to install the updates on all the individual workstations. Therefore, we recommend installing the client on a network server, and to make a short cut from each workstation to the executable. This will minimally affect the performance of the software under normal network conditions. Please note that activation of the software for each of the workstations is still needed even though the software is installed on a server. How to do this installation is described in detail in our installation manual.

Due to large amount of data that are transported between the SimaPro client and database server, even high speed internet gives unsatisfactory performance. The solution is to use a terminal server or an application server such as Citrix. Basically, these run the client on a local server and only send the screen information to you, and as such increase the speed. Another option is to use Windows Remote desktop. Please check with your IT department if and how these options are available within your organization.

For professional versions: Professional Multi-User versions are not floating. The client installation is copy protected with activation. Further, the maximum numbers of users is determined by the SimaPro database server. If you need to move a SimaPro client from one computer to another, please follow the instructions under the re-installation heading.

For educational versions: The Classroom license is a floating license, i.e. the maximum numbers of users is determined by the SimaPro database server. You can install the client as often as you want (we recommend however to install the client on a server so that maintenance is simplified, see the  heading on Multi-User installation).

During the installation of SimaPro you can select a different location for the database. This can be on a local or server drive. If you have already installed the database, you can move it to another location. SimaPro must be closed when you do this. A SimaPro 7.1 or 7.2 database consists of 77 numbered files with an *.NX1 extension (from ***00.nx1 to ***76.nx1)), which need to be moved together. The SimaPro database is installed by default in:

C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Documents\SimaPro\Database.

The first time you start SimaPro again, it will show a message that the database is not found. Browse to the new database location, which will be remembered by SimaPro. If you use a Multi-User version you can also move databases. However, the new location must be specified (as alias) in the SimaPro database server. See the installation manual for details. If you make automatic backups, make sure your backup software is updated with the new location.

Reinstallation on a new PC requires a few steps:

1. De-installation of the software. De-installation of SimaPro 7.1 or 7.2 on the old computer is needed to free up a software activation. You must be connected to the internet while you uninstall. You de-install via Start, Settings, Control Panel, Add or Remove programs. During this process the SimaPro database(s) are not removed. We recommend however that you make backup.
   
   Please note that SimaPro Classroom and Faculty licenses, as well as the SimaPro database server, do not need to be de-activated. After de-installation you can install SimaPro on the new computer. Make sure you use latest installation file, so that your software and databases are up to date. With the software, a new Professional or Starter database is also installed. You can choose to continue your work in this new and “clean” database. If you want to continue your work in your “old” database, you can delete or rename the installed database and continue with step 2, moving the database.
    
2. Moving the database The easiest way to move a SimaPro database to make a SimaPro backup of the database. You can do this in SimaPro via File, Database management, Back-up. Transfer the back-up file to the new computer and restore the database. If you choose to move the database manually or via a zip file, this information is important: The SimaPro database is installed by default in:
   
   C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Documents\SimaPro\Database.
   
   SimaPro must be closed when you move or zip the database. A SimaPro database consists of 77 numbered files with an *.NX1 extension (from ***00.nx1 to ***76.nx1), which need to be moved together. If you use a Multi-User version, the new location must be specified in the SimaPro database server. See the installation manual for details.

SimaPro is Windows 7 compatible from version 7.1.8 onwards. However, we do advise you to update to the latest version. If you already have SimaPro installed, please de-install to free up an activation (see re-installation).

Please refer to the;

• SimaPro End User License Agreement and Service Level Agreement (PDF)
• Ecoinvent license conditions (PDF)

The licensing conditions of our database suppliers normally do not allow this, as also detailed in the SimaPro license conditions. Note however that you are allowed to edit your results in other tools.

Please check our partner network to see if there is a SimaPro partner for your country. If not, please fill in the interactive order form on our website. An order confirmation will be send to your email account. Please print this confirmation and send the signed confirmation to support@pre-sustainability.com or fax it to +31 33 455 50 24.

The software license includes software plus the professional database containing inventory databases and impact assessment methods. You can download your SimaPro version from our website or install via CD-ROM.

The registration code will always be send via e-mail! Please make sure you whitelist the pre.nl domain, or the domain of our partner, in your spam filter.

An ecoinvent v2 database license is included in all new SimaPro licenses. With the ecoinvent database license, you will receive the ecoinvent CD-ROM with documentation and a login code for the ecoinvent web site. Please note that while updates of the ecoinvent database within a version are included in your service contract, upgrades to new versions such as ecoinvent version 3 are not.

Manuals are included in SimaPro (via the Help > Manuals) and can be downloaded from our website via manuals.

Indefinite licenses include a free first year service contract. This gives you software and database updates, plus access to helpdesk. Service contracts are automatically renewed each year, you can also order multiple years in advance. Temporary licenses always include service and support for the period of the license.

After receipt of your order form, we normally send your order by registered mail or e-mail (according to your preference) within a week. The registration code will always be send via e-mail! Delivery times vary per country. Express courier service is optional (100 Euro).

First of all, you can try our demo version. Furthermore, you can try our one year temporary license(s).

Contact us if you want to test a multi-user license.

Yes, as long as you have a valid service contract.

With indefinite licenses, you can upgrade to a more advanced professional version, from a single user to a multi-user license or from an educational to a professional license. You only pay the price difference (based on the current price list) plus the adjustment of your service contract. In some cases you may need to purchase additional ecoinvent licenses.

For temporary licenses, upgrading to an indefinite license is only possible before your temporary license expires! Please contact us for a quotation.

Whatever upgrade you choose, you can continue working with the same database. You will not loose your data!

Yes, provided that you have a valid service contract.

An invoice is sent separately and can be paid by bank transfer, MasterCard or Visa. Payments must be made in Euro. Bank account information is available on request. Please note that we reserve the right to ask for prepayment.

Our partners may have different payment conditions. Currency fluctuations also mean prices in their local currency can deviate slightly. Our partners charge VAT as applicable in their country.

Pro forma invoices and quotations can be send on request. Please describe your requirements in detail.

VAT (BTW/TVA/IVA/MOMS/MWS) is not to be paid by non Dutch customers.

When ordering from an EU country, organizations are VAT exempt only if PRé can show your valid VAT number to the tax collector. This is why we want you to enter it on the order form. If we have no valid number, we have to charge 19% VAT. If you are outside the European Union there is no need to enter your VAT number.

Note that if you order through our local partner, they will charge local taxes as applicable in your country.

The VAT number of PRé is NL 812691003B01. PRé is registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce in Amersfoort under number 32099599.

Each organization in the EU has a VAT (tax) number. If you do not have it, please contact your administrative or financial department.

Private persons ordering SimaPro will have to pay 19% tax. Note that a VAT number is not your personal tax number!

1. Check that you have entered the code correctly. The registration name is case sensitive, the registration code is not.
    
2. Check that you use the latest registration code. When you renew your service contract you receive a new code that allows you to install the latest version and updates that are released during your service contract. If you use an old code you will not be able to install newer versions or updates.
    
3. Check if you have the right installation file; a registration code for a Single User version does not work on a Multi-User version and vice versa.

When you renew your service contract or upgrade to a different version, you receive a new code that allows you to install the latest version and future updates. To allow updates of the software and databases you need to enter the new registration code.

This is especially important for the Multi-User version. Enter the new registration code in each of the SimaPro clients at the same time to avoid problems. To save you time, we recommend to install one SimaPro client on the server and make a short cut to it from each workstation. This way you only have enter a code for one SimaPro client to update all users. Similarly you only have to update one client if a software update is available.

You can simply copy and paste results from SimaPro to Excel , Word or another application. Both tables and graphs can be copied, using the Ctrl+C (copy) and Ctrl+V (paste) commands. You can also use the copy and paste options in the Edit menu.

You can copy and paste all calculation results in tabular format from SimaPro to Excel or another application. In Excel, use the Graphic Wizard to create graphs as you prefer.

Normally the graphs in SimaPro show a breakdown of the results, showing the contribution of the top processes or product stages. Occasionally this breakdown is not shown. If this happens it means the top processes you are analyzing are part of a loop. This means that the process you analyze is also used in some upstream processes, that are used in the process that you analyze (for example electricity is needed to produce building materials for the power plant that produces that electricity, or steel is needed to build trucks that transport steel). For mathematical reasons, SimaPro cannot show the breakdown of the results if the top process is also used as an input somewhere else in the model.

A workaround is to “break” the loop. You can do this by making a copy of the process you want to analyze. The copy will open in edit mode, and even though the underlying model is the same, the copy is not part of the looped system anymore. From this window you can use the analyze function and see the results including breakdown. You do not need to save the copy, unless you want to use it in a calculation setup. Make sure you give the copy a clear and distinct name, and remember that any changes in the original process must also be made in the copy.

A service contract gives you software and database updates, including new versions such as SimaPro 7.3.2 or SimaPro 8 at no extra costs. Furthermore, it gives you access to the SimaPro helpdesk (through PRé or your local partner) which will assist you with your questions.

Indefinite licenses include a free first year service contract, temporary licenses always include service and support for the period of the license.

Yes. You can order up to three years of service contract in advance, when you order the first time or with any service contract renewal. We offer 5% discount on a 2 year contract, and 10% discount on a 3 year contract.

No problem. Please contact us for a solution.

Please send us an e-mail, fax or letter with cancellation, at least 1 month before the expiration date of your current contract. Note that after cancellation, you cannot renew your service contract anymore. To update, you need to buy a new license for at least 75% of latest list price. Contact us to discuss your options.

SimaPro comes in different versions for professional and educational use, each with its own features. In addition, in a Multi-User version some features are only available for the SimaPro Manager. These are:
 

• Creating users and user types
• Backup and restore
• Pack and check databases
• Editing libraries
• Importing SimaPro databases
• Move data to library

Please let us know via support@pre-sustainability.com. Include a screenshot of the SimaPro window so that we know where we should make the correction.