The information in this article applies to:
This article provides an introduction to client/server computing and STI Server.
Because there are multiple layers or components involved in networks and client/server computing, we need to break down each component to give you an idea of how the architecture works. Before we can discuss Client/Server architecture, we need to define a few terms and concepts.
Servers are computers or processes generally dedicated to managing disk drives (file servers), printers (print servers), e-mail (e-mail servers), faxes (fax servers), etc. Because the term "server" can refer to different items, it can be confusing.
Client/Server Architecture is a network architecture in which each computer or process on the network is either a client or a server. This architecture is sometimes referred to as a two-tier network architecture with the server being the first tier and the client being the second tier. Typically, there is a "one server" to "many clients" relationship. For example, an Internet Web Server is a server whereas the various browsers that connect to it are considered clients.
To simplify the client/server relationship, a client requests services whereas a server provides services.
A client is the second half of the client/server model. Clients rely on servers for resources or services, such as files, devices and sometimes even processing power. The workstation on which an application is run is a client. Likewise, the applications that run on the workstations are also referred to as clients.
When using CSV software, there are two components:
| STI Server | The STI Server software is provided on a separate CD-ROM. |
| Client Server Version Software (CSV) |
The Client Server Version of the software application (i.e., Tabs3, PracticeMaster, etc.). This version of the software makes direct calls to STI Server to accommodate the sophisticated interaction between STI Server and the Client Server Version of the software. |
Before you can understand how the "Client/Server Method" works, you need to understand how the "Standard Method" of networking works. The following diagram will help us compare the differences between the two methods:
| Standard Method | When using the "Standard Method" of accessing data, an application deals with files directly. The application uses the operating system’s redirector to handle file handling requests. This method works well up to a point; however, as more users are added to the network and require access to the same data, performance begins to suffer. |
| Client/Server Method | When using the "Client/Server Method" of accessing data, applications deal with the database server which takes care of the file handling requests directly. The database server contains the "intelligence" needed to process requests from clients, interact with the relevant data files (wherever they are located) and respond to those requests. Requests for opening files, locking files, deleting files, etc. are now handled by the database server. The advantage of this design is that multiple network requests and responses can be grouped and coordinated so there is less network traffic. |
In the above diagram, notice the thickness of the Request and Reply arrows. The Client/Server method reduces the amount of information flowing back and forth over a network thereby greatly improving performance.
The following are reasons why a firm would want to implement our CSV software vs. our standard multi-user software.
| Speed | The predominant reason for upgrading to the Client Server Version of our software is SPEED. Local Area Network resources are used more efficiently thereby providing faster performance. Performance on your network will vary depending on hardware, networking software, and activity. |
| Reliability | By replacing the standard network redirector with the STI Server software, file handling operations are more reliable. |
| Scalability | The Client/Server architecture scales well, particularly when compared to similar increases on a standard network. If you add 10 users to a standard network, performance degradation is substantially greater than when adding 10 users to a network using client/server technology. |
| Efficiency | STI Server takes advantage of additional memory and multiple CPUs on the server if available. By working directly with STI Server, file handling operations are performed more efficiently thus providing better use of your resources and ultimately yielding faster performance. |
Here's a sampling of what users of our CSV software are saying about it:
"We have seen a positive difference after upgrading to the Client Server Version of the software. Our check and bank reconciliation have sped up significantly. Even the deletion of entries is now instant. Overall, the increase in performance has been 50 percent or greater."
Bookkeeper, Raleigh, NC
5 attorneys, 15 total staff, 13 workstations"Since upgrading our software to the CSV version, the speed of our monthly processing time has been cut in half. We love it!"
IT Director, Green Bay, WI
20 attorneys, 60 total staff, 55 workstations"Because of the size of our database, the CSV version of our software allows us to process reports and other multi-user functions 60 percent faster than before."
Partner, Albany, NY
12 attorneys, 22 total staff, 22 workstations"I've noticed quite a bit of difference in speed since upgrading our software to the CSV version. Reports and statements are processing up to 70 percent faster."
Billing Clerk, Los Angeles, CA
13 attorneys, 35 total staff, 35 workstations
STI Server is based on the Client/Server technology developed by FairCom Corporation (www.faircom.com). The FairCom Client/Server technology uses an engine that has been refined over twenty years thus offering the reliability and stability required of critical back office systems. This technology utilizes native low-level threads providing exceptional performance. These servers support up to 1,024 connections to the database and offer maximum data throughput regardless of the number of users connected. Multi-threading capabilities take advantage of multiple CPUs on the server. All disk I/O is performed by STI Server, taking full advantage of sophisticated data and index caches, thereby minimizing network traffic for maximum performance. Heavily dynamic indexes are automatically maintained for optimal speed and size, eliminating the need for routine rebuilding.
One important reason Software Technology, Inc. selected the FairCom Server was for its ease of use. Many firms have limited Information Technology (IT) resources and are not eager to allocate resources required for configuring and monitoring a database server. The FairCom solution requires no ongoing administration or maintenance. It requires a limited amount of system resources, thereby minimizing the need for costly hardware upgrades. Although a faster CPU or more CPUs will provide faster processing times, the hardware requirements for the server are relatively modest. Furthermore, if you ever upgrade your server computer, moving STI Server to a new computer is very easy to do.
Another reason that Software Technology, Inc. selected the FairCom Server is because our software currently uses FairCom’s c-tree file handling system. Working with the same company that designs the data storage system provides a huge advantage because unlike many other client/server technology providers, no data conversion is required.
The FairCom client/server technology allows us to offer solid "out-of-the-box" performance for both large and small firms. The database is automatically self-tuning, compensating for the variations in numbers of users and connections. The scalability, low administration, reliability, faster throughput and reasonable pricing of the FairCom Server made it the ideal choice.
Selecting FairCom also permitted us to offer a Client/Server solution for two different platforms:
Windows
Novell
Another advantage of using the FairCom server technology is that STI Server can be accessed by Windows based ODBC compliant applications by using the FairCom ODBC Driver (Read Only).
In summary, the following reasons are why we selected FairCom as the backbone of our client/server products:
| Reasonable Pricing | STI Server and CSV applications are affordably priced and cost much less than the competition. The cost of STI Server is much less expensive than competitive client/server products from other companies such as Microsoft and Oracle. |
| Stability | Software Technology, Inc. has used this technology in-house for over three years and has found the technology to be very stable and reliable. |
| Ease of Use | Once installed and operating, STI Server is transparent to the user. No data conversion is required. There are no users to configure and no workstations to mess with. |
| Minimal Administration | Installation is quick and simple. Install the Client Server Version software and install STI Server. You don’t need any special training or certification to use the software. |
| Minimal Hardware Requirements |
STI Server supports two versions: a Windows version and a Novell Version. When using the Windows version, STI Server must be installed on a computer running Windows NT4/2000 Server, NT4/2000 Workstation, or Windows XP Professional, with as low as a 133 MHz CPU. STI Server will also run as an NLM (network loadable module) on a Novell Server using TCP/IP network protocol. Workstations accessing STI Server must be running Windows 98 or greater. |
| Takes Advantage of Advanced Hardware Resources |
STI Server will take advantage of multiple processors on your server. You can also configure STI Server to take advantage of additional memory on your server. |
| Easily Grows With Your Firm and Hardware |
There is no workstation setup required. Adding or changing workstations requires no additional administrative tasks. Upgrading your server is easy to do. |
The CSV version will not improve overall WAN (Wide Area Network) performance and should not be considered a viable solution for sluggish WAN performance. The CSV version is primarily for a Local Area Network. It is important to be aware that the CSV version can sometimes use as much or more bandwidth as our multi-user products.
It is important to note that increases in speed will be most noticeable with complex tasks such as report processing and updating statements. Although there will be performance improvements in most tasks, be aware that the CSV version will not noticeably increase the speed of basic data entry.
The processing speed on a local computer will always be faster than the processing speed across network connections - even with STI Server. Where you will see the improvement is by other workstations on a Local Area Network when performing complex tasks.
CSV versions are available for the multi-user versions of the 9, 19, 39, 99 and 999 timekeeper levels of Tabs3, all multi-user versions of PracticeMaster, Trust Accounting Software, Accounts Payable Software, General Ledger Software and Tabs3 Report Writer.
When purchasing our CSV version, you must also purchase the STI Server software as well as one year of maintenance. Licensing and pricing is based on a per connection basis. STI Server connections are available in 8, 16, 32, 64, 128, 256, 512, and 1024 connection versions. For example, a firm has 8 users. All 8 users have PracticeMaster running at the same time, 4 of the same users also have Tabs3 running and 1 of the users also has Accounts Payable Software and Trust Accounting Software running. You would need to have a server connection level of 16 since 14 client server version software applications would be running at the same time on the network.
The CSV versions have a 90000 series serial number. All software must be 90000 series serial numbers in order to integrate with one another.
STI Server is available in two separate versions: a Windows 32-bit version and a Novell NetWare NLM version.
To use STI Server, the following system software and hardware is required:
What firms should consider CSV?
Firms with a great deal of network activity are prime candidates for CSV. Firms that have multiple users updating files and processing reports will see greatly improved performance. The advantages of CSV increase as system load increases.
What makes CSV have improved performance?
How fast is CSV compared to our standard software?
Every network and data set is different. Therefore, there is no definite answer to this. The difference will depend on many factors.
What network factors influence performance?
Many factors are involved when dealing with network performance. The following factors are important components that influence how fast a network performs:
Do all of the CSV products provide the enhanced client/server capabilities?
Currently, Tabs3 and PracticeMaster are specifically coded to provide the performance enhancements provided by STI Server. However, all integrated software require the CSV version of our software for integration purposes in order to share data files.
What network protocol do I need to use with CSV?
Industry standard TCP/IP protocol.
Which server platforms does STI Server support?
Which versions of our software are provided in a Client Server Version?
Version 10.5 and greater.
Can the Windows server run as a Service?
Certainly. In fact, we recommend running the Windows version of STI Server as a Service.
Can STI Server be loaded as a protected NLM on Novell NetWare servers?
Yes.
What if I upgrade my server?
Not a problem. All you need to do is transfer the files to the new server, edit a configuration file to use the new computer name, and then edit the shortcuts on the workstations. Complete details are provided in the STI Server manual.
What if I change servers from Novell NetWare to Windows?
This requires an update to STI Server and is available for a nominal fee.
Do I need 100mb network for CSV?
No. However, a 100mb network will always be faster than a 10mb network. Because our software is transaction database oriented, it is very demanding of networks. While CSV reduces network load, higher performance servers and workstations make it imperative that the network subsystem is adequate. When 10mb Ethernet was first introduced, 12Mhz 286 computers were considered top of the line!
I'm currently using Citrix for my WAN. Can I use CSV instead?
Our CSV software is not intended to function as a replacement for Terminal Services or a Citrix solution. These products are different in that they are designed to handle situations with low bandwidth connections such as a WAN. Our CSV software is designed for LANs with higher speed connections.
What if we try CSV and determine that the improvement in performance on our existing network is inadequate?
STI Server and all CSV software are provided with a 60-day money-back guarantee.
Can I try CSV and revert back to the standard software?
Certainly. Remove the STI Server files (Refer to article R10877 - Uninstalling Version 11 Software). Reinstall the standard software and reindex all data files.
Will STI Server use multiple CPUs in my server?
Yes, STI Server will take advantage of multiple processors if they exist on your server.
Is STI Server multi-threaded?
Yes. The Server establishes a new thread for every connection. The more connections, the more simultaneous work that can be accomplished. This is why larger firms will see more dramatic improvement.
Does STI Server require a dedicated server?
When using the Windows version of STI Server, it does not have to be installed on a dedicated server. It can be installed on a Microsoft Windows NT4/2000 Server, NT4/2000 Workstation, or Windows XP Professional.
I see that STI Server will run under Windows NT Workstation. What's the difference between running STI Server on Microsoft NT Workstation or Microsoft NT Server?
Windows NT Workstation has a limit of 10 inbound connections whereas Microsoft NT Server does not.
Do I have to convert my data to run CSV?
Unlike many other Client/Server systems, there is no data conversion. Going from the standard version to CSV software is easy and fast.
Can I install this without dealer assistance?
Most network administrators are knowledgeable enough to install STI Server and CSV software.
Will I need to get staff retrained?
No. Once STI Server and CSV software is up and running, it is transparent to the user. Other than improved performance, most users will not even realize anything has changed.
Do I need an IT person to oversee the CSV operations?
No. You don't need any special training or certification to use the software.
What are the steps to install CSV?
Detailed instructions are provided in the STI Server manual.
Is installation time consuming?
No. An average installation takes less than 15 minutes.
Do I need to implement special server backup procedures with CSV?
No. Like our standard software, you must ensure that no one is using the system when the files are backed up. There are server control files that can be backed up independently of the main data files and STI Server must be shut down to back them up.
How do I tell how many connections are available?
When the CSV software is installed, you can use the Help | About menu selections to display the Help About window. Additional information regarding the CSV software is shown in this window including the STI Server Name, Current Connections and Maximum Connections.
What other companies use FairCom technology?
Companies such as Federal Express, Motorola, MCI and many others use FairCom technology. A detailed customer list can be found at http://www.faircom.com/about/ourcustomers.shtml.
What are the hardware and software requirements for STI Server?
Unlike some server products, STI Server and CSV software have modest requirements.
How are STI Server connections counted?
STI Server connections are based on a per connection basis per system. For example, four users using PracticeMaster and Tabs3 at the same time requires 8 connections. STI Server connections are available in 8, 16, 32, 64, 128, 256, 512, and 1024 connection versions.
How does STI CSV pricing compare to the competition?
By selecting FairCom technology as the backbone of our Client/Server products over Oracle and Microsoft SQL Server, we have reduced our licensing fees and have passed the savings on to our customers. On average, the CSV versions of our applications cost only 25% more than our standard software. Furthermore, the CSV versions do not require a dedicated server. Instead, any Windows 2000/NT4/XP computer, even one used for other tasks, can act as a server.
How much does it cost?
Complete pricing can be found at www.Tabs3.com/products/pricing_info.html.
Does support cost more for CSV?
Somewhat. Maintenance for STI Server is mandatory for one year (approximately 25% of the purchase price). Maintenance for CSV products is optional but is proportionately priced the same as our standard products (approximately 30% of the purchase price).
What documentation is being sent with CSV?
A hard copy of the STI Server Manual is sent with CSV. The manual is also included in PDF format on the STI Server CD-ROM or it can be accessed from our download page. Installation instructions are included in the manual; therefore, there are no separate installation instructions.
What serial number should be entered when installing the software?
STI Server is assigned two serial numbers - an STI Server serial number that is printed on the registration card and a FairCom serial number that is provided on the label with the Activation Key. When installing the STI Server, the user will be prompted to enter the Activation Key and the FairCom serial number (not the STI SS90000 serial number used in STS).
The user just purchased an upgrade of STI Server that has a higher connections limit. What steps need to be performed to make sure that this upgrade gets installed and activated?
The new CD received by the user contains a new Activation Key and serial number that must be entered before the new connection limit will be activated.
Use this procedure:
To verify the new connection limit is activated, open Tabs3 and go to Help|About Tabs3. The Activation Limit is the number of connections that are installed and activated.
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