Security: Protect CAD files with controlled self-destruction

Pinion Software addresses the issues associated with sharing computer-aided design (CAD) and other high-value files and documents with a suite of tools that extend users’ control over sensitive documents throughout their life cycle

By Control Engineering Staff July 24, 2007

Pinion Software addresses the issues associated with sharing computer-aided design (CAD) and other high-value files and documents with a suite of tools that extend users’ control over sensitive documents throughout their life cycle, even while the information is in use. Desktop Packager and Desktop Packager-Workgroup Edition for engineers are PC-based applications that allow users to perform CAD calculations using real-time data without compromising the integrity and security of the information. Desktop Packager is a single user version for protecting CAD and business application files, while the Workgroup Edition includes a five-user license that enables workgroups and departments to secure email messages.

Both allow users to control how partners, vendors, outsourcing contacts, and manufacturers can use their intellectual property, providing in-house permissions for any function that may endanger data. For example, it can allow a user to dictate how long a recipient can work with a file before it automatically self-destructs (deletes itself from their PC).

The software controls activation dates, password authentication, printing and forwarding permission, cutting, copying, and pasting, and screen capturing and, upon expiration of the permissions, the files are permanently removed. Besides protecting standard business applications (DOC, PPT, XLS, PDF, MPP, BMP, TIF, JPEG, GIF files), Pinion solutions allow users to work with native files in Autodesk (DWG, DXF, DWF), Bentley (DGN), Microsoft Visio (VSD, VSS) eDrawings and SolidWorks (EASM, EPRT, EDRW etc). PTC PRO-E support is coming soon. It can also handle animation and visualization utilities, Quick Time player, Real Player and Windows Media Player (WAV, MP3, AVI, HTML, MPEG).

At the receiver’s end, the recipients can download the free Pinion Receiver, which allows them to access the files and use them according to the originators’ permissions. Besides enforcing the permissions and ensuring that the files remain secure, Pinion Receiver allows recipients to view and work with the protected content in the applications with which they were created or for which they are intended.

—Edited by Lisa Sutor , Control Engineering daily news desk