Mx Software License Upgrade: Key Facts Before You Buy

Understand the difference between major and minor Mx license upgrades, compatibility with Cognex VPro 9, and what to check before purchasing.

Publishing teamXI LANGS Editorial

PublishedOct 19, 2026

Page updatedOct 24, 2026

Reading time3 minutes

Mx Software License Upgrade: Key Facts Before You Buy

Quick answer

Check your current Mx version number first. A major upgrade changes the first digit (e.g., 8 to 9) and costs less than a full new license; a minor upgrade changes the second digit (e.g., 8.1 to 8.2) and is slightly more expensive per unit. Confirm your operating system supports the new version, especially if moving to Cognex VPro 9.

Why version numbering matters for your upgrade path

Zygo Mx software uses a four-part version number. The first digit indicates a major release, the second a minor release. Knowing which digit changes determines whether you need a major or minor upgrade license. Choosing the wrong type can delay your deployment or require a separate purchase.

Operating system lock-in with Cognex VPro 9

Cognex VPro 9 is designed for Windows 10 only. If your current Mx setup runs on an older OS, upgrading to VPro 9 may force a hardware or OS migration. Plan for that cost and downtime before ordering the license.

Common upgrade questions answered

How do I know if I need a major or minor upgrade?

Look at your current Mx version number. If the first digit will change (e.g., from 8.x.x.x to 9.x.x.x), you need a major upgrade license. If only the second digit changes (e.g., 8.1.x.x to 8.2.x.x), you need a minor upgrade license. Write down your current version before ordering.

Can I use a major upgrade license for a minor version change?

No. Each license is tied to the specific type of version change. Using the wrong one will not activate the software. Always match the license to the digit that changes.

Will Cognex VPro 9 work on my existing PC?

Only if it runs Windows 10. The suite requires that OS and comes with a hardware dongle. If your PC uses an older Windows version, you must upgrade the PC first. Check your OS version before purchasing the license.

What if I skip a major version?

You may need to purchase the major upgrade license for the version you are jumping to. Contact Zygo support to confirm the exact path and any intermediate steps. Verify the upgrade path with support if you are skipping versions.

License types at a glance

Mx License, Major Upgrade: Major upgrade: first digit of version changes (e.g., 8.0.1.2 to 9.1.0.3). Use this when you need new features or breaking changes; it costs less than a full license but more than a minor upgrade.

Mx License, Major Upgrade
Mx License, Minor Upgrade: Minor upgrade: only the second digit changes (e.g., 8.1.0.3 to 8.2.0.0). Choose this for incremental improvements or bug fixes within the same major release; it is slightly more expensive per unit than the major upgrade.

Mx License, Minor Upgrade
Cognex VPro 9 for Windows 10: Vision Software Suite for Windows 10 only; includes VisionPro software, license, and hardware dongle. If your OS is not Windows 10, you cannot run this suite without upgrading your entire system first.