Frequently asked questions
Is the API OpenAI-compatible?
Section titled “Is the API OpenAI-compatible?”Yes. The chat, embeddings, and models endpoints follow the OpenAI format — just change the base URL to https://api.norlen.io/v1 and use your Norlen key. Image generation lives at https://app.norlen.io/api/v1.
Can I use the official OpenAI SDK?
Section titled “Can I use the official OpenAI SDK?”You can. In Python and Node, set base_url / baseURL to Norlen and pass your key. See Python and Node.js.
Which models are available?
Section titled “Which models are available?”Chat (qwen3.6-35b, qwen3-coder, gemma-4-12b), embeddings (qwen3-embedding), and images (qwen-image). Details in the model catalog.
How does billing work?
Section titled “How does billing work?”A monthly subscription with clear quotas. Text is unlimited within your plan (controlled by requests/min, fair use). Images come with an included monthly quota; above it, each image costs $0.03, debited from your balance. Everything in USD. See Pricing & quotas.
What happens if I exceed the request limit?
Section titled “What happens if I exceed the request limit?”The API responds with 429 Too Many Requests. Just lower your rate or apply backoff — the official SDKs already retry automatically. For more requests/min, move up a plan. See Errors & limits.
Does image generation take long?
Section titled “Does image generation take long?”An image takes around 7–16s. We keep the model warm so you don’t hit a cold start — just wait for the call’s response.
Can I edit images, not just generate them?
Section titled “Can I edit images, not just generate them?”Yes. Besides generating (text → image), you can edit by instruction (image + instruction → image): send an image and describe the change, and Norlen applies it while preserving the rest of the scene. Via the API it’s the POST /api/v1/images/edits endpoint; in the dashboard, the Edit toggle on the Images screen. See Image generation & editing.
Can I change plans whenever I want?
Section titled “Can I change plans whenever I want?”Yes, in the dashboard. The upgrade or downgrade applies as soon as the change is confirmed, unlocking (or adjusting) models and limits.
What currency is billing in?
Section titled “What currency is billing in?”Always US dollars (USD).
Are the models open source?
Section titled “Are the models open source?”Yes. Norlen runs open source models on managed infrastructure — you get the open ecosystem without having to maintain GPUs, routing, and billing.
How do I keep my API key secure?
Section titled “How do I keep my API key secure?”Treat it like a password: use it on the backend, never in the browser or in public repositories, and prefer environment variables. Rotate it in the dashboard if you suspect a leak. See Authentication.
I couldn’t find my question.
Section titled “I couldn’t find my question.”See Support to get in touch with us.