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Adding the HEIDENHAIN DNC License on TNC 640

This guide explains how to activate the HEIDENHAIN DNC (Option 18) license on a TNC 640 control once you've received your license key by email.

Prerequisites​

Before starting:

  • You have physical access to the TNC 640 control.
  • You have received the license key (activation code) from HEIDENHAIN or your machine tool builder.
  • The control is powered on and at the main screen.

Steps to Activate the License​

Step 1: Open the MOD Menu​

  1. On the control panel, press the MOD key.
  2. The MOD Functions window opens (Settings and Information).
  3. Navigate to the top option Code number entry.

Heidenhain Software Options

Step 2: Enter the SIK Access Code​

  1. When the Settings window is open, click/tap the input field and use the keyboard to type:
SIK
  1. Confirm with the ENTER key.
  2. The control now displays the SIK content and option state screen.
  • This menu lists all licensed and available options for the control.

Heidenhain SIK Options

Step 3: Select Option 18 - HEIDENHAIN DNC​

  1. In the SIK Options list, scroll down to find: Option 18 - HEIDENHAIN DNC
  2. Highlight this option using the arrow keys or touchscreen.

Step 4: Set the Option​

  1. With Option 18 - HEIDENHAIN DNC selected, press the SET OPTION softkey.
  2. The control will prompt you to enter the license key code.

Step 5: Enter the License Key​

  1. Carefully enter the license key exactly as it appears in the email from HEIDENHAIN.
  2. Confirm with ENTER.

Heidenhain License key entry

  1. The control validates the key and activates Option 18.

Step 6: Verify Activation​

  1. Once confirmed, the list will show Option 18 - DNC as “active” or “enabled.”
  2. Exit the menu using the END softkey or by pressing MOD again.
  3. If prompted, restart the control to finalize activation.

Troubleshooting​

SymptomPossible CauseSolution
“Invalid key” errorTypo in key entryRe-enter the code carefully; check for confusing characters (e.g. O vs 0)
Option 18 not appearingSoftware version mismatchVerify control software version supports Option 18
Option still inactive after entryRestart requiredReboot the TNC 640 and recheck the license list

Notes​

  • The license key is bound to the specific machine ID; it cannot be reused on another control.
  • Menu names can vary slightly between software revisions.
  • Once activated, the DNC feature allows remote program loading and communication with external systems.