The information in this article applies to:
Note: Although the majority of this article applies to all CSV versions, certain features such as HotBackup, Accelerators, Transaction Processing, and Auto-Recovery were introduced in Version 14.3. The What's New List includes a complete list of features introduced in Version 14.3.
This article provides a collection of frequently asked questions regarding the Client/Server Versions of Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Software.
The following is a list of questions frequently asked by users who have upgraded, or are considering upgrading, to the Client/Server Version of Tabs3 and PracticeMaster software.
Firms with 5 to 999 timekeepers appreciate the benefits and value of the Client Server Version, and we strongly recommend that firms with 19 timekeepers or more consider CSV.
Detailed information regarding how CSV embodies these five features can be found in the KB article R10712, "CSV Overview: Why do I need CSV Software?"
Every network and data set is different. Therefore, there is no definite answer to this. The difference will depend on many factors.
Many factors are involved when dealing with network performance. The following factors are important components that influence how fast a network performs:
To view more ways to improve your network performance, refer to R10712, "CSV Overview: Nutshell Requirements."
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.
With the Windows version of Client/Server Version 14.3, all Tabs3 and PracticeMaster products take advantage of Transaction Processing and HotBackup. In addition, Tabs3, PracticeMaster and Tabs3 Custom Report Writer utilize Accelerators to speed report processing on all major reports.
Transaction Processing is a CSV feature that ensures that all parts of a given database transaction succeed before saving it to the data files. This action guarantees that the database remains in a consistent, reliable state. For more information regarding Transaction Processing, refer to R11175, "Transaction Processing."
Industry standard TCP/IP protocol.
Yes, there are no known issues when running the STI Server with a virtual server.
Client Server Versions were first introduced in Version 10.5 in 2002. Version 14.3 introduces advanced CSV features, including: HotBackup, Report Accelerators, and Transaction Processing with Auto-Recovery.
HotBackup is a Version 14.3 and later CSV feature which allows you to back up your data files while users continue to work in the software. For a full explanation of HotBackup functions, refer to Chapter 5 of your STI Server 14.3 Manual or for troubleshooting information, refer to R11193, "HotBackup Overview."
Yes. All versions of CSV will reduce report processing time due to decreased network traffic. Furthermore, the Version 14.3 Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Accelerators provide significant additional reductions in report processing time. Using these Accelerators, STI Server shifts report processing to the server, thereby reducing network traffic and making use of the server's resources to complete the report faster and send only the finished report back to your workstation. For more information regarding Accelerators, refer to R11182, "Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Accelerators."
Certainly. In fact, we recommend running the Windows version of STI Server as a Windows Service because it will provide significant performance improvement when running accelerator-enabled reports.
FairCom does not recommend running STI Server as a protected NLM.
With CSV Version 14.3 and later, the majority of report processing and HotBackup is performed at the file 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 KB Article R11227, "Moving CSV Software from One Computer to Another."
Yes, the CSV software will run in a WAN environment, however the CSV software in intended for use in a LAN environment. Updating to CSV is not a viable solution for a sluggish WAN environment; a solution such as Citrix or Terminal Services would be more appropriate.
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. Keep in mind, however, that if you are a Terminal Services or Citrix user, our CSV software will allow you to take advantage of other CSV-only features such as HotBackup and Transaction Processing.
Yes, STI Server will take advantage of multiple processors if they exist on your server. In fact, CSV Versions 14.3 and later recommend a multi-core processor.
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 a more dramatic improvement.
No. 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
2003/2000 Server, Windows 2000
Workstation, or Windows XP Professional Workstation.
Note: As of this writing, STI Server will not run under Windows
Vista.
No. STI Server is not the same as Microsoft SQL Server; however they perform similar processes (e.g., the main purpose of a SQL Server is to retrieve data from a database program). Although the majority of information your firm will need with the data in Tabs3/PracticeMaster can be retrieved by running reports within the software, an ODBC driver can be purchased if you would like to extract additional queries from Tabs3/PracticeMaster for third party programs such as MS Excel, MS Access, Crystal Reports, etc.
No. Tabs3 and PracticeMaster software currently only work with the c-tree Server from FairCom Corporation.
Yes, all Tabs3 and PracticeMaster software uses a relational database. SQL database queries can be performed on Tabs3 and PracticeMaster data using the ODBC Driver.
Yes. There are no known compatibility issues when running STI Server alongside other server software. However, keep in mind that running multiple programs simultaneously places increased demand on your server, thereby limiting system resources. If you will be running two or more sets of server software, it may be necessary to increase the resources available to your server for optimal performance.
Also, keep in mind that Exchange may use a great deal of the available RAM, thereby causing other programs to experience speed delays. Therefore, when using STI Server with Microsoft Exchange, you may benefit from configuring Exchange to use a set amount of memory.
Most network administrators are knowledgeable enough to install STI Server and CSV software. If you would like the assistance of a local Tabs3 and PracticeMaster reseller, call Sales at (402) 419-2200.
Not Really. Once the STI Server and CSV software is up and running, it is virtually transparent to your data entry users. However, the HotBackup window is slightly different and may require minimal review.
No. You don't need any special training or certification to use the software.
Detailed instructions are provided in the STI Server manual, which can be viewed online at www.Tabs3.com/support/docs.html.
No. An average installation takes less than 15 minutes. Converting from a standard version of the software, however, will take more time than a new installation because of the conversion that needs to be run.
Unlike many other Client/Server systems, there is no major data conversion. Going from the standard version to CSV requires an automatic conversion using CSCONV14.EXE. Although this is not a "major" conversion, it may take some time to perform, particularly with larger data sets. This data conversion will take roughly the same amount of time to run as it takes to reindex all of the data files in all programs combined.
Our most recent release of CSV offers HotBackup, a new way of backing up your data files without requiring all users to exit Tabs3 and PracticeMaster software. For more information regarding how to implement HotBackup within your normal backup procedure, refer to R11213, "CSV Backup Strategy."
Tabs3 and PracticeMaster CSV software can function on a server that is mirrored to another location for backup purposes and disaster recovery purposes, but it is important to know that all files are being mirrored properly. The other location must contain an exact copy of the entire directory, not just certain files. Additionally, it will be necessary to determine how open files are treated during the mirroring process. Because of these factors, it may be beneficial to use HotBackup to make copies of the Tabs3/PracticeMaster data files instead of using disk mirroring.
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. With Version 14.3, up to four (4) additional connections are required for overhead purposes. STI Server is available in 8, 16, 32, 64, 128, 256, 512, and 1024 connection versions.
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.
Unlike some server products, STI Server and CSV software have modest system requirements.
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. Furthermore, the CSV versions do not require a dedicated server. Instead, any Windows 2003/2000 Server/XP Professional/2000 computer, even one used for other tasks, can act as a server if it meets our minimum system requirements. Contact your local consultant or reseller or our Sales Department at (402) 419-2200 to get a price quote for your firm.
Complete pricing can be found at www.Tabs3.com/products/pricing_info.html.
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).
STI Server and all CSV software are provided with a 60-day money-back guarantee.
Certainly. However, it will be necessary to contact Technical Support if you have installed CSV Version 14.3 because an additional conversion program must be run. The process to revert from CSV Version 14.1 (and earlier) to the standard multi-user version is described in KB Article R11110, "Uninstalling Version 14 Software."
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