Thinking of buying, but Totally confused by the threads....

[ScarletSpider]

I've been eye balling SCAl & the forums for a couple of months now, trying to figure out how much & whether I'd use it. I don't use DS.
From the threads I've read so far it seems like the only people having issues are those who use both programs, is that correct?
I've also read about fear that a lawsuit is on its way, or that SCAL wont work much longer...etc.
Is it possible there could be trouble ahead for those of us who dont use DS?

I'm not sure if I want to buy a program that may or may not be around much longer. Can anyone help me understand this a little better, please?
Because right now, I'm TOTALLY confused!
Thanks in advance
Scarlet

[Kim]

The current problems are for those that want to use the current version of DS, it blocks SCAL from cutting right now, if you have no need for DS you can run SCAL just fine. If you haven't updated the firmware on your Cricut yet you will need to make sure you download the older version of DS, the firmware can only be upgraded through DS but it only has to be the older trial version, no need to buy DS to update firmware. SCAL works with firmware 1.1 for the baby Bug and 2.1 for the Big E. Right now you can not use SCAL with the new Cricut Create.

SCAL is a fantastic program and Provo can't legally stop it but they can have their programmers spend time messing with the firmware that will block SCAL if you upgrade DS which needs a newer firmware update. They have even taken the older trial version off their website so it's harder to find but there are links here. So you need to determine if you have the right firmware or can get the older DS trial version then you will have no problem with SCAL and it's so fun.

[AnointedHands]

I've also read about fear that a lawsuit is on its way, or that SCAL wont work much longer...etc.
Is it possible there could be trouble ahead for those of us who dont use DS?
Scarlet

There is no lawsuit that can stop you from using SCAL. It is possible they can start legal action against CraftEdge, but that has nothing to do with you using the product. If you don't use DSS, you should have no problem using SCAL. Once you upgrade your firmware, you are good to go.

Althea

[GrammyKrausse]

Scarlet:
I have been readying all the comments on both the Cricut site and of course here. If anything PC are the ones that might be in trouble over this. Remember when Bill Gates tried to make his Windows unavailable for other software to interface. His idea was I made it and you can't do anything about it. We all know he lost on that one. So just remember Todd is here for you and right now lets be patient, enjoy his product that is accessable to your computer and let all the drama unfold about working with SCAL
One thing to remember
You don't have to have Cricut design studeo to work Scal or Inkscape
All you have to do is have the original Cricut, and or expression that has "NOT" had the latest update and any one (any) cartridge to make it work.
The hype on voiding your warrantee. Can't see how that possible since the software is on your computer and not your actual Cricut machine. I have had my machine since June of 2006, and have never updated it and thus it works just fine with Scal. Now the only time I use the Cartridges is when I have to plug one in to use to use it to cut a design I have created.
Grammy

[Momof2ShihTzus]

Thank god I procrastinated and didn't get the new firmware update!

But..I have a dumb question. Can I buy the Juke box and the new carts that are out like the Hello Kitty cart without
having to update my firmware?

I have been wanting some newer carts but was afraid to get them for fear they would require the new firm updates.

Thanks!

[GrammyKrausse]

Hello Momof2ShihTzus
I wish I could answer you on the Jukebox question. But my "guess" no. but it's just a guess. Most likely to have to have an update. You might go out there on the Cricut site and ask if you have to have the new firmware to use or even if it already has the firware loaded. That might give you an idea.

[ScoutLady]

Can I buy the Juke box and the new carts that are out like the Hello Kitty cart without
having to update my firmware?

I have the jukebox without the update but it is pointless using the jukebox as you have to push the button for each cartridge you want to use. With the update the Cricut knows what cartridges are plugged into the Jukebox. I have some of the newer cartridges as well and I can't use them with CDS unless I update and if I update then I either have to keep switching the firmware which I do not want to do or forget about SCAL.

I tried to be patient waiting for a fix but it now appears that Todd has left us in the boat without a paddle.