I just jump on this thread because I have the same problem - but a lot worse.

I didn't use the tool for qute some time and I actually can't remember if I ever started v6 after the upgrade purchase at all (I most likely did, because it was installed next to my other 3D related tools).

However, when I launched it today (for the first time in a long time), all that I get is the error box:

"Demo mode enabled. Please connect to the internet and restart the program so Blacksmith3D can check in with the server"

There is a "OK" button but it doesn't do ANYTHING, no matter how often I hit it. So I can't select any menu within the software since it never starts, I can't even quit it - instead I need to option-command-ESC it from the Finder.

Oh how I hate this virtual dongle protection stuff, if I'd known before clearly I'd probably didn't buy it... (sorry for the rant)

Anyway, how can I get it back to life now?

OS-X 10.6.x (all updates), 64bit mode, Blacksmith3D-v6.1.0.1-Mac (the latest I can find), internet connection is perfectly fine and fast (I actually just post through it right now)