Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Hardware

SMART requires a PC running Windows 95 or later. To use more than one PC you require a network. In this configuration one of the PCs will act as a server (meaning it stores the information entered into Smart). On small networks (up to about 6 users) this PC can also act as a workstation i.e. can be used by an operator.

SMART (including the server) will run on almost any Windows PC produced in the last 5 years. However, the more powerful the PC the better the stability and performance. RAM (memory) is particularly important, especially if your workstation will be running other programs as well as SMART. We recommend at least 512Mb in a workstation (1024Mb if running Windows Vista).
The server should have at least 1Gb (1024Mb) of RAM. In general, install as much RAM as your budget will allow!

Disk space: Workstations require about 100Mb free, server requires at least 1Gb for each 20 users. Again, more disk space (and a faster disk drive) will improve performance.

The most important hardware issue is 'server redundancy'. This means that if a key component fails you have an alternative in place so that you can quickly have your system up and running again. SMART is a core business system and such a failure could mean that your business comes to a halt, or, worse, that vital records are lost.

The simplest and least expensive (free!) form of redundancy is to have a workstation configured so that it can be used as a server should the server fail. Your information must be copied to this workstation so that it is ready for use. SMART support staff can advise you on how to set this up on your system.

You should also consider having multiple, 'mirrored' disk drives in your server. This means that if a hard disk fails there will be at least one other disk to carry on and your information will not be lost. Your hardware supplier or SMART support person can discuss the options with you.

A very effective and affordable solution is a 'cluster server' which in effect duplicates all your server components so that if one should fail your system will continue to operate. This is particularly suitable for the security industry because no operator action is required, e.g. a failure outside business hours will not require immediate attention.

Installation and setup

This section is incomplete. Please submit your question to skorpion.com.au.

Training

This section is incomplete. Please submit your question to skorpion.com.au.