Capable Requirements

Your software basic requirements:

1. 1. Windows XP professional (XP home will work, but is not as reliable and not recommended in the situation where you want to network computers). Ensure that your computer has never had Microsoft Works on it. (Works will prevent a number of functions operating.) Be aware that a number of computer "bargains" install XP home and Works. These are appropriate for the home environment, but not what we want to do with data management.
2. 2. Microsoft Office XP Professional (provides Word and Access)
3. 3. Internet access (does not need to be broadband, dial up is sufficient) (Modem may be internal or external)
4. 4. 512 RAM is recommended. (256RAM will operate but processing may be much slower, and by the time you add a virus protection software, is really slow)
5. 5. If you wish to network (up to 5 computers on one site), then you will also need Ethernet connections - this is usually included in XP pro

Your hardware requirements:

1. Desk top computer, screen, mouse or lap top computer with software loaded.
2. CD/DVD burner (usually built in if ordered) and / or USB ports
3. Six CD- RW - rewritable CDs for back up and / or memory stick
4. Modem for internet connection (usually built in if ordered)
5. Ethernet connection card or wireless connection for networking (usually built in if ordered)
6. Printer with Microsoft drivers (some printers have their own drivers that are not compatible with Microsoft drivers. Avoid multi function printers - the fax may interfere with some Capable Software functions.
7. 7. Additional printers. Need to ensure that sufficient ports are available. These will be built in if ordered. Capable Software will work with one printer. Dedicated printers make faster more efficient front desk systems. The ideal combination of printers is
   • An inexpensive printer with A5 paper for printing receipts.
   • A quality printer for printing statements, schedules, reports.
   • Label printer for printing labels for patient file, x-rays, address labels.

Security options for your consideration

UPS (Uninterrupted power supply unit). Is not essential to the function of Capable, but will help prevents loss of access to data in the event of power failure. Recommended if you are in an area of regular power outages.
1. Or consider a laptop rather than a desk top computer. If you use a laptop - make sure you have cable adaptors to bolt it to the desk so it is not stolen when you back is turned.
2. Recommend is one CD per day for back up of data base.
3. On line back up facilities are available as an alternative to or in addition to backup on CD.
4. Anti-viral software is only required on this computer if it has direct email assess on this computer, or is networked to a computer which has internet access.
5. Regular updates of firewall software, antiviral software.
6. Turn on of security system within Capable.

Training

Once you have spending money on hardware and software do you know how to use it all? Some people want to have a fiddle and get the new toy working. And that is fine for you to start with. Is it relevant to expect you staff to have the same curiosity? Do you want to pay for their time to play? And maybe get it right, or may be not? How long will it take for you to make sure you are getting all you can from your investment?