Final Cut Studio - registration/activation ; how it works?

Question

Level 1

8 points

Final Cut Studio - registration/activation ; how it works?

Hello.
I have been trying to find some info on Final Cut Studio v6. The thing is, I'm trying to save major bucks by buying FCS Academic version from ebay (200 usd vs 899.)

I haven't found out how registering the product works. In order for the FCS to work, do I need to register it?

The thing is I'd like to have it legit. Some questions:

1. If I buy used package, can I legally use it? Even if previous owner had registered it?
2. Are there some activation/de-activation cycles, like Adobe has?
3. What happens if the product is not registered?
4. What is the current version of Final Cut Studio?

Thank you.

OS

Posted on Oct 20, 2010 4:49 PM

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Answer 1

Tom Wolsky

Level 10

152,819 points

Oct 20, 2010 5:01 PM in response to comatory

1. Only if you are an academic, administrator, college or post graduate student.

2. No.

3. Nothing, except you get reminded regularly to register it.

4. FCS 2009 which has at its center FCP7.

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Answer 2

Oct 20, 2010 5:02 PM in response to comatory

1. As long as the sale meets the requirements of the Software License Agreement as stated in section 3: http://images.apple.com/legal/sla/docs/finalcutstudio2.pdf

2. No.

3. Nothing, except you won't have any official support from Apple.

4. FCS 2009, also known as FCS 3. FCS 3 includes FCP 7.

-DH

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Answer 3

Oct 20, 2010 5:10 PM in response to comatory

Hi
1. yes you can use it, the previous owner has to uninstall it though, not sure about de registering.
2. you need to have the correct serial number (printed on a pamphlet with the manuals)
3. Not a lot (I dont think) but you wont get emails from apple.
4. current version is Final Cut Studio 3, this contains Final Cut pro 7, latest version is 7.0.3

that the key bit though, academic versions cannot (afaik) be upgraded so you're stuck with FCPv.6
buying off e bay is a real case of "buyer beware" but if FCP6 is all you need and its compatable with your setup, you can get a bargain. Personally I'd be very wary
cheers
Andy

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Answer 4

comatory Author

Level 1

8 points

Oct 21, 2010 1:24 AM in response to andy chastney

Thanks everyone.

Yes I can apply for academic version, I am a student of film studies.

1. That's what bugs me. What if the user just keeps his copy installed and doesn't deregister? Would it still register normally for me?

I know there's no possibility to upgrade. But if I get Studio 3 with newest FCP I think I'm set. I own SD DV mini camera and projects I'm working on don't require plugging any new hardware or anything.
It just gives me two or three years before I can save up for full version. I don't really see that big disadvantages for me. Up until now I've been using Adobe CS3 which is almost four years old and I haven't got any problems really.

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Answer 5

Oct 21, 2010 7:40 AM in response to comatory

Hi
its the un installing thats important. if they don't and you're both connected to the web, one of you will be kicked off and unable to run FCP. its allowed to be installed on 2 computers (owned by the same person), just cant run on 2 at the same time. Again its the old buyer beware!
Sounds as though upgrading is not an issue for you though and FCP6 is a good piece of software.
good luck

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Answer 6

Oct 21, 2010 7:44 AM in response to comatory

Check your bookstore. While Apple lists the academic version of FCP as $899, it's available in our bookstore for $299.

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Answer 7

Oct 21, 2010 7:47 AM in response to comatory

Apple has a transfer of license form that you can require the seller to sign. Once you have both signed it and you file it with Apple, the previous owner is in violation if they attempt to use that license of FCP.

Not sure if this transfer applies to academic versions, though.

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Answer 8

comatory Author

Level 1

8 points

Oct 21, 2010 9:29 AM in response to thrillcat editorial

What bookstore are you referring to?

Sorry I'm not (yet) a mac user.

The form sounds good. Where can I get more info on that?

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Answer 9

Tom Wolsky

Level 10

152,819 points

Oct 21, 2010 9:48 AM in response to comatory

He means an academic or university bookstore.

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Answer 10

Oct 21, 2010 9:53 AM in response to comatory

The University Bookstore. If you're a film student, check with your institution.

I just did a quick search. According to the EULA, it doesn't appear that the form is necessary anymore. Just get a receipt from the seller. And make sure they include all printed materials, the original disks and packaging with the sale.

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Answer 11

comatory Author

Level 1

8 points

Oct 21, 2010 11:06 AM in response to thrillcat editorial

I'll try that. Don't know if that's possible in Europe.

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Answer 12

Nov 11, 2010 9:40 PM in response to comatory

From what i have heard it is possible depending on the institution you attend. I have some friends over seas who have gotten copies with no issues.

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