@rabidhamster@lemmy.dbzer0.com
Post #1802777
2026-01-04 21:28 UTC
I remember it as far back as the 90's. Usually referred to things like SCSI dongles that authorized the use of expensive software like Maya (which was ~$50k at the time), because online DRM activation wasn't really a thing yet. Probably goes back further than that.
Replies (1)
-
@Brewchin@lemmy.world 2026-01-04 23:54
The 80s, I think, thanks to AutoDesk. AutoCAD required their DB9 serial dongle (in-line with the mouse) for the software to function. As you say, well before DRM was the default for everything. I thought they were an awful company for it, but little did I know how things would pan out due to the DMCA... 😒