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Hardware & System Requirements
The following sections explain the system terminology, describe the software, hardware, and network system requirements that are required when using OfficeMate/ExamWRITER, and illustrate the implementation methods you can use when setting up OfficeMate/ExamWRITER:
System Terminology- Software Requirements
- Workstation Requirements
- Peripheral Requirements
- Server Requirements
- Network Requirements
- Backup Requirements
- Installation Requirements
- Implementation Methods
These system requirements are routinely reviewed and updated. Download a printable copy of these requirements.
The requirements outlined on this page represent the minimum hardware and system specifications required to effectively use the OfficeMate/ExamWRITER software. Failure to meet these requirements will noticeably degrade the performance of the software.
In addition to these requirements, review and adhere to the requirements and recommendations provided by your other software and equipment vendors. For example, ECR Vault requires a dedicated server with its own specifications.
Eyefinity highly recommends employing certified operating system and networking technicians to install and manage your computer systems. Eyefinity does not provide support for your computer systems. If you are unsure about whether your systems meet the minimum requirements, or if you're considering purchasing hardware, hardware support, or a hosting service, click here.
System Terminology
| client or workstation | A computer that is connected to the server and relies on the server for data files and network connections. |
|---|---|
| dedicated server network | A network in which one computer is designated as the server and only handles network administration tasks. Other computers, or clients, are dependent on the server for network connections. A dedicated server is recommended for large networks with more than three users. Dedicated server networks are fast and can handle multiple users. |
| network | A physically interconnected group of computers running software that allows them to share files and resources. |
| peripheral | An external hardware component added to your computer to extend functionality. Peripherals can include printers, scanners, keyboards, mice, cameras, and more. Peripherals may be wired or wireless. |
| printer server | A computer (either a client or a server) that has a printer physically attached to it. Other workstations may print to the printer via the network, but print jobs are controlled by the print server. |
| server | A computer running administrative software that controls access to the network and its resources. The server acts as the network’s file cabinet, providing data files to other computers on the network. |
| Terminal Services | Terminal Services allows a user to access OfficeMate/ExamWRITER on a remote computer over your network. If the workstations in your practice (single or multiple locations) access the OfficeMate/ExamWRITER applications via a network connection to a central server, you may have a Terminal Services environment. If the OfficeMate/ExamWRITER applications reside on individual workstations in your practice (single or multiple locations), you have a non-Terminal Services environment. |
Software Requirements
| Software | Requirement | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Server Operating System | Windows Server® 2008 R2 Foundation1, 2 (1–5 users) Windows Server 2008 R2 Standard1 Windows Server 2003 R2 Standard1 |
Windows Server 2012 is not currently supported, but will be supported soon. Only those operating systems listed in the Requirements column are supported. No other operating systems are supported. Install the latest service pack and critical updates for your operating system. Ensure that your computer is certified for the operating system that you are using. 1 OfficeMate Suite and OfficeMate Enterprise run in 32-bit and 64-bit environments. 2 Supports only a single processor. |
|
| Workstation Operating System | Operating System |
Supported Editions | Unsupported Editions |
| Windows® 83, 4 | Pro Enterprise |
Basic | |
| Windows 73 | Professional Ultimate |
Starter |
|
| Windows XP | Professional |
Starter Home Media Center |
|
3 OfficeMate Suite and OfficeMate Enterprise run in 32-bit and 64-bit environments. 4 Eyefinity supports OfficeMate/ExamWRITER v10.7 on Windows 8 Pro Edition and Enterprise Edition. Earlier versions of OfficeMate/ExamWRITER are not supported on Windows 8. Install the latest service pack and critical updates for your operating system. Ensure that your computer is certified for the operating system that you are using.Windows Vista is no longer supported. |
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| SQL Database Server | Number of Users |
Database Size |
SQL Database Server |
1–25
|
4 GB or less |
Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Express |
|
10 GB or less |
Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2 Express |
||
10 GB or more |
Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Standard |
||
25 or more |
Any size |
Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Standard |
|
Microsoft® SQL Server 2008 Express and 2005 Express require no licensing fees. Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Express is installed as part of the initial installation. The recommended edition of Microsoft SQL Server is based on the number of users, database size, and network configuration. On seeking the appropriate version of Microsoft SQL Server Edition that best fits your needs, we recommend consulting a Microsoft Certified Technician or your Dell hardware vendor. |
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| Windows Installer | Windows Installer 4.5 | Windows Installer 4.5 must be installed on the server and every workstation. Go to Microsoft’s website to download Windows Installer 4.5 for free. | |
| Windows PowerShell | Windows PowerShell 1.0 | Windows PowerShell 1.0 must be installed on the server. Go to Microsoft's website to download Windows PowerShell for free. Windows PowerShell does not need to be installed on your workstations. | |
| .NET Framework | Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 SP1 | Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 SP1 must be installed on the server and every workstation. Go to Microsoft’s website to download .NET Framework 3.5 SP1 for free. | |
| Word Processor | Any word processor capable of opening rich-text format (RTF) files | Microsoft Word, Microsoft WordPad, or OpenOffice Writer are all suitable word processors. Such Web-based word processors as Google Docs or Adobe Buzzword will not work with OfficeMate and ExamWRITER. | |
Workstation Requirements
Refer to the Software Requirements section for a complete list of supported operating systems.
Note: Eyefinity highly recommends employing certified operating system and networking technicians to install and manage your computer systems. Eyefinity does not provide support for your computer systems.
| Hardware | Requirement | Best-Fit Workstations |
|---|---|---|
| Workstation Processor | Intel® Core™ 2 Duo Processor E8400 or better | Dell™ OptiPlex™ 300 Series Lenovo® ThinkCentre® M58 Series HP Compaq 4000 Series Think Smart Vision Series Workstations |
| Workstation Memory | 3 GB or higher with Windows 7 or 2 GB or higher with Windows XP | |
| Workstation Hard Drive | 60 GB or higher with at least 8 GB free for the software | |
| Video Adapter and Screen Resolution | 1280×1024 pixels (24-bit) | |
| Monitor | 17-inch |
Peripheral Requirements
Peripherals are components that you attach to your computer to add functionality. Peripherals may include printers, scanners, and backup media. Although Eyefinity outlines the following requirements for peripherals, not every peripheral is required.
| Hardware | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Document Printer | Business-grade laser printer | Multifunction, bubble jet, and ink jet printers may not operate properly and are not recommended. Eyefinity tests its products with HP LaserJet® printers. Use PCL5e-compatible printers; some forms will not print correctly on non-PCL5e–compatible printers. |
| Label Printer | Dymo LabelWriter 400 Dymo LabelWriter 450 |
|
| Barcode Printer | SATO CL408e for distribution centers SATO CG408TT or SATO CX400 for individual offices |
Ensure that your SATO printer includes the RS-232 serial interface. |
| Document Scanner | TWAIN Compatible | Eyefinity does not recommend a specific scanner brand or model; you can use any scanner that can create an electronic document with the OfficeMate and ExamWRITER eDocuments feature. For more information on scanners, see our Knowledge Base article #10958, or consult your hardware technician. Some TWAIN-compatible network scanners or scanners that are part of multi-function machines may not work under a Terminal Server environment or on a Windows Server. |
| Barcode Scanner | Datalogic Gryphon Gryphon I GM4100 USB Cordless or Datalogic Heron D130 USB Corded barcode scanners | Only the keyboard-wedge interface is supported. |
| Fax Modem and Internet Connection | 3Com, US Robotics External 56k (fax modem) High-speed Internet DSL, cable, or T1 connection | High-speed DSL or cable modems are recommended for Internet access and training and support. If your electronic claims clearinghouse requires a phone line modem, you will need a separate Internet connection and fax modem. |
| Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) | UPS on file server | Electric power is not always delivered to your outlets in perfect condition. Fluctuations can impact your computer’s performance. A total loss of power can damage your data if your system was running at the time of a power loss. A UPS with line conditioning capabilities can help control the level of power coming to your system. In the event of a power loss, a UPS contains a backup battery to keep your computer running long enough to safely shut it down. |
Server Requirements
Notes:
- Eyefinity highly recommends employing certified operating system and networking technicians to install and manage your computer systems. Eyefinity does not provide support for your computer systems.
- Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Express and 2005 Express Editions require no licensing or preinstallation. Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Express is installed as part of the initial installation.
- Memory requirements for Terminal Servers are 200 MB per user.
- Microsoft SQL Server Standard Edition may be required if the SQL database is 4 GB in size or larger.
Server hardware requirements vary greatly depending on the number of users. Refer to the hardware requirements that best fit your user group:
- 1–5 Users (Dedicated Database Server)
- 6–20 Users (Dedicated Database Server)
- 1–25 Users (Combined Database Server/Terminal Server)
- 26–50 Users (Dedicated Database Server and Terminal Server)
- 51–100 Users (Dedicated Database Server and Terminal Server)
- 101+ Users (Dedicated Database Server and Terminal Server)
1–5 Users (Dedicated Database Server)
Refer to the Software Requirements section for a complete list of supported server operating systems and supported SQL server versions and editions.
| Dedicated Database Server | ||
|---|---|---|
| Requirement | Best-Fit Server | |
| Server Operating System | Windows Server 2008 R2 Foundation Windows Server 2008 R2 Standard |
Dell PowerEdge T110 IBM System x3200 M3 HP ProLiant ML110 Series Think Smart Smart Server 8 |
| SQL Server | SQL Server 2008 R2 Express | |
| CPU | Dual-core Intel Xeon® 3100 Series | |
| Memory | 4 GB | |
| Hard Drive Capacity | 146 GB SCSI or SAS (15 K rpm) or Enterprise-class SATA (10 K rpm) |
|
| Hard Drive Redundancy | RAID 5, three drive minimum | |
6–20 Users (Dedicated Database Server)
Refer to the Software Requirements section for a complete list of supported server operating systems and supported SQL server versions and editions.
| Dedicated Database Server | ||
|---|---|---|
| Requirement | Best-Fit Server | |
| Server Operating System | Windows Server 2008 R2 Standard |
Dell PowerEdge T310 IBM System x3200 M3 HP ProLiant ML300 Series Think Smart Smart Server 9 |
| SQL Server | SQL Server 2008 R2 Express | |
| CPU | Dual-core Intel Xeon 3100 Series | |
| Memory | 4 GB | |
| Hard Drive Capacity | 146 GB SCSI or SAS (15 K rpm) or Enterprise-class SATA (10 K rpm) |
|
| Hard Drive Redundancy | RAID 5, three drive minimum | |
1–25 Users (Combined Database Server/Terminal Server)
If you have more than 20 users, we highly suggest using OfficeMate/ExamWRITER in a Terminal Server environment. Noticeable performance issues arise if you have more than 20 users in a non-Terminal Server environment. Using a Terminal Server in your practice offers many benefits:
- Easier software upgrades. Installing and upgrading software is easier on a Terminal Server because, in most cases, the software does not have to be loaded on individual workstations.
- Lower cost of ownership. The cost of a Terminal Server license is one-tenth the cost of a new workstation that meets the OfficeMate hardware and system requirements.
- Easier Access. Terminal Server allows you to remotely access applications like OfficeMate ExamWRITER from anywhere internet access is available. OfficeMate/ExamWRITER in a Terminal Server environment. Noticeable
Refer to the Software Requirements section for a complete list of supported server operating systems and supported SQL server versions and editions.
| Combined Database Server/Terminal Server | ||
|---|---|---|
| Requirement | Best-Fit Server | |
| Server Operating System | Windows Server 2008 R2 Standard |
Dell PowerEdge T600 IBM System x3400 M3 HP ProLiant ML300 Series Think Smart Smart Server 9 |
| SQL Server | SQL Server 2008 R2 Express (for 1–25 users) SQL Server 2008 R2 Standard (for 25 or more users or for databases of 4 GB or greater) |
|
| CPU | Two Quad Core Intel Xeon 5300 Series | |
| Memory | 8 GB | |
| Hard Drive Capacity | 146 GB SCSI or SAS (15 K rpm) or Enterprise-class SATA (10 K rpm) |
|
| Hard Drive Redundancy | RAID 5, three drive minimum | |
26–50 Users (Dedicated Database Server and Terminal Server)
Refer to the Software Requirements section for a complete list of supported server operating systems and supported SQL server versions and editions.
| Dedicated Database Server | ||
|---|---|---|
| Requirement | Best-Fit Server | |
| Server Operating System | Windows Server 2008 R2 Standard |
Dell PowerEdge T600 IBM System x3400 HP ProLiant ML300 Series Think Smart Smart Server 9 |
| SQL Server | SQL Server 2008 R2 Standard |
|
| CPU | Two Quad Core Intel Xeon Processors E5300 Series | |
| Memory | 6 GB | |
| Hard Drive Capacity | 146 GB SCSI or SAS (15 K rpm) |
|
| Hard Drive Redundancy | RAID 5, three drive minimum | |
| Dedicated Terminal Server | ||
|---|---|---|
| Requirement | Best-Fit Server | |
| Server Operating System | Windows Server 2008 R2 Standard |
Dell PowerEdge T600 IBM System x3400 HP ProLiant ML300 Series Think Smart Smart Server 9 |
| CPU | Two Quad Core Intel Xeon Processors E5300 Series | |
| Memory | 12 GB | |
| Hard Drive Capacity | 146 GB SCSI or SAS (15 K rpm) |
|
| Hard Drive Redundancy | RAID 1, two drive minimum | |
51–100 Users (Dedicated Database Server and Terminal Server)
Refer to the Software Requirements section for a complete list of supported server operating systems and supported SQL server versions and editions.
| Dedicated Database Server | ||
|---|---|---|
| Requirement | Best-Fit Server | |
| Server Operating System | Windows Server 2008 R2 Standard |
Dell PowerEdge T600 IBM System x3400 HP ProLiant ML300 Series Think Smart Smart Server 9 |
| SQL Server | SQL Server 2008 R2Standard |
|
| CPU | Two Quad Core Intel Xeon Processors E5400 Series | |
| Memory | 8 GB | |
| Hard Drive Capacity | OS: 146 GB SCSI or SAS (15 K rpm) |
|
| Hard Drive Redundancy | OS: RAID 1, two drive minimum |
|
| Dedicated Terminal Server | ||
|---|---|---|
| Requirement | Best-Fit Server | |
| Server Operating System | Windows Server 2008 R2 Standard |
Dell PowerEdge T600 IBM System x3400 HP ProLiant ML300 Series Think Smart Smart Server 9 |
| CPU | Two Quad Core Intel Xeon Processors E5400 Series | |
| Memory | 20 GB | |
| Hard Drive Capacity | 146 GB SCSI or SAS (15 K rpm) |
|
| Hard Drive Redundancy | RAID 1, two drive minimum | |
101+ Users (Dedicated Database Server and Terminal Server)
Refer to the Software Requirements section for a complete list of supported server operating systems and supported SQL server versions and editions.
| Dedicated Database Server | ||
|---|---|---|
| Requirement | Best-Fit Server | |
| Server Operating System | Windows Server 2008 R2 Standard |
Dell PowerEdge T600 IBM System x3400 HP ProLiant ML300 Series Think Smart Smart Server 9 |
| SQL Server | SQL Server 2008 R2 Standard |
|
| CPU | Two Quad Core Intel Xeon Processors E5400 Series | |
| Memory | 12 GB | |
| Hard Drive Capacity | OS: 146 GB SCSI or SAS (15 K rpm) |
|
| Hard Drive Redundancy | OS: RAID 1, two drive minimum |
|
| Dedicated Terminal Server | ||
|---|---|---|
| Requirement | Best-Fit Server | |
| Server Operating System | Windows Server 2008 R2 Standard |
Dell PowerEdge T600 IBM System x3400 HP ProLiant ML300 Series Think Smart Smart Server 9 |
| CPU | Two Quad Core Intel Xeon Processors E5400 Series | |
| Memory | 20 GB | |
| Hard Drive Capacity | 146 GB SCSI or SAS (15 K rpm) |
|
| Hard Drive Redundancy | RAID 1, two drive minimum | |
Network Requirements
The recommended network configuration uses a dedicated Windows Server 2003 R2 Standard operating system with Windows XP Professional installed on each computer. Because OfficeMate Suite relies on a SQL server, peer-to-peer networks are no longer supported. Only use TCP/IP when configuring your network.
Note: Eyefinity highly recommends employing certified operating system and networking technicians to install and manage your computer systems. Eyefinity does not provide support for networks.
| Network Item | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Internet Connection | Business-grade, high-speed DSL, cable, or T1 connection | Business-grade, high-speed DSL or cable modems are recommended for Internet access and OfficeMate training and support. If your electronic claims clearinghouse requires a phone line modem, you will need a separate Internet connection and 56k fax modem. |
| Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) |
50 Kbps bandwidth connection or better per RDP client | Use Remote Desktop Connection to access OfficeMate/ExamWRITER running on a Terminal Server in single and multilocation practices. Use RDP to connect client workstations to a terminal server. Use the TCP/IP protocol and 3389 default port. |
| Remote Access | GoToMyPC® | GoTOMyPC is ideal for quick access while traveling or for short troubleshooting situations. It is not a reliable substitute for Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), and therefore, continuous, daily use of GoToMyPC is not supported. GoToMyPC is HIPAA compliant. For more information on using GoToMyPC for remote access, go to www.gotomypc.com. |
| Name Service | Use the Name service for file and printer sharing. Use the NetBIOS protocol and 137, 138, and 139 default ports. | |
| SQL Server | Use the TCP/IP protocol and 1433 default port for this service. | |
| SQL Browser | Use the SQL Browser to find SQL Servers on client computers. The SQL Browser listens for incoming requests for SQL Server resources and provides information about SQL Server instances that are installed on the computer. Use the UDP protocol and 1434 default port. | |
| HP Jetdirect | Use the HP Jetdirect service for Jetdirect printing. Use the TCP/IP protocol and 9100 default port. | |
| Cables | Category 5 Twisted Pair and Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) Ethernet | |
| Cards | 3Com or Intel 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet | |
| Switches | 1000 Mbps transfer rates | Eyefinity does not recommend using hubs. |
| Wireless | 802.11n business-grade router and 802.11n wireless network card 802.11g may be used in a Terminal Services environment |
Enable wireless security. Purchase your wireless access port and wireless network card from the same manufacturer. Wireless networks offer significantly lower performance and reliability than wired networks; therefore, Eyefinity/OfficeMate recommends hard-wired networks in environments where high performance is necessary. |
Backup Requirements
Eyefinity recommends using multiple back up methods and backing up your data to multiple files in case one backup file is corrupt. Work with your data backup provider or certified operating system and networking technician to determine which solution is best for you. For more information about backup media, refer to the “Backing Up and Restoring Data” document.
| Backup Method | Recommended Solution |
|---|---|
| Online | iBackup Powered by DataHEALTH Practice Shadow by Think Smart Group, Inc. |
| Local | For SQL databases: Symantec Backup Exec with SQL Agent http://www.symantec.com |
Installation Requirements
The OfficeMate Suite installation requirements are listed below. Adhering to these requirements will greatly improve the OfficeMate Suite installation process.
Note: Eyefinity/OfficeMate highly recommends employing certified operating system and networking technicians to install and manage your computer systems. Eyefinity/OfficeMate does not provide support for networks.
| Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|
| Remote Access | We recommend Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) for remote access through Microsoft Terminal Services. |
| Administrator Access Privileges | |
| Microsoft Terminal Services Access | Terminal Services access must be enabled and tested before installing OfficeMate. |
Implementation Methods
You can implement the OfficeMate Suite in a terminal services or standalone environment. See the printable copy of these requirements to view the illustrations of the main components and data flow of OfficeMate using the terminal services and standalone implementation methods.
The features of using terminal services and standalone implementations are detailed in the table below so that you can properly set up the implementation environment of your choice.
| Feature | Terminal Services | Standalone |
|---|---|---|
| Software Updates | Server only. | Each client. |
| Additional Terminal Server Licensing | Yes | No |
| VPN Network Required | Recommended | Yes |
| Higher-End Workstations Required as Clients | No, but the workstations must meet remote desktop system requirements. | Yes |
| Thin Client Support | Yes | No |
| Peripherals Support | Yes, through third-party applications. | No |


