I just installed Vue Infinite 2016. (I had paid for it but never installed it, then kind of forgot about it while E-on was having their issues.) They kindly let me download it today and gave me a serial.

It's asking for an activation code. Apparently that can no longer be done automatically online.

What happens if I don't activate it? Are there limitations on it if I run it in "non-activated mode"?

There should be an install code (I forgot exactly what it is called), on the activation screen. Copy and paste that into the form on the support page at e-on and they will send you an activation file. Save that to your computer and then activate manually. When it asks you to locate the activation key direct it to wherever you saved it to, then your copy of vue will be activated.

I don't recommend using it in non-activated mode because renders will be watermarked and there are a few other limitations that I can't remember. Basically it will work like a demo.

I'm pretty sure that I've seen elsewhere that you need to contact E-on support via their website, and they will give you an activation code to enter manually

If you fill out the tech support form (browse to the bottom of the page https://info.e-onsoftware.com/support) and include your serial # and the install code (in VUE, select "help" then "view installation code") they will send you an activation key file.

They have been very helpful to me. I was able to download the most recent versions of VUE and Plant Factory, and get them activated.

Thanks, all. I was hesitant to bug them again, since I've been bugging them a lot about other issues, but I went ahead and did it.