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Configuration options
The LunchTime software system supports two terminal configuration options to
run your POS devices: client/server and terminal services. There are advantages
to both configuration options.
POS running in Terminal Services mode: (Pros)
All of the system files are installed on a terminal server minimizing program
installation and update time required by the IT staff. In additon, if you
are currently using MMS, chances are you already have a Terminal Server in
place. LunchTime can run on the same terminal server you are using for MMS.
There will be limited maintenance on the client side. If something happens to
the machine that is connecting to the terminal server, you can simply replace
the machine and connect to the terminal server.
POS running in Terminal Services mode: (Cons)
network connection is required. If the network becomes unavailable for any
reason, the terminal will not be able to connect to the server. This would
require any system transactions to be processed manually.
POS running in Client/Server mode: (Pros)
System Availability. If the network fails for any reason, a local version of
the application can be launched to capture the transactions. The local
application database is stored locally on the client machine. Once the network
is available again, launching the full POS application will detect local
transactions and synchronize them to the server automatically.
POS running in Client/Server mode: (Cons)
Installation and maintenance time increases as the system must be installed and
configured on each and every client. In the event a system needs replaced, the
software will need to be reinstalled on the new machine.
Hardware Requirements
To run the LunchTime software system, you do not need to purchase specialized
computer hardware. In most cases, the system will function on your existing PC
hardware. If you need new hardware, you can purchase it from us or your vendor
of choice. Most hardware vendors offer huge price discounts to schools, which
is why we allow you to buy direct from your vendor of choice. The only
equipment you will be required to purchase directly from us are the input
devices that will be used by the patrons when going through the lunch line.
Workstation/Terminal Recommendations:
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Windows XP Professional or Windows XP Embedded
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Two USB/serial ports to support entry devices. Each line can have up to two
entry devices.
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One USB/serial port to support a touchscreen monitor.
Database Server Requirements:
The LunchTime system database is a Microsoft SQL Server 2000/2005 database. If
the school district currently has a SQL Server 2000 database server, the school
district will not need to purchase an additional server. A free option
for smaller schools would be to use Microsoft SQL 2005 Express. SQL
Express is a free download from Microsoft.
Public Access & Account Funding Module
Requirements
The Public Access and Account Funding Module can reside on a web server
located within the school district. The web server must meet the following
requirements:
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Microsoft IIS
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Support ASP.NET Web applications
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Security to allow an ODBC connection to the SQL Server database
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SSL Certificate to securely display data and receive/process credit card
information
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Authorize.NET payment gateway account
Another option for the Public Access & Account Funding modules
is for the website to be hosted on our servers at Focal Tech. For this
option you will still need an Authorize.NET payment gateway account but all of
the data synchronization and payment process is handled completely within the
software package. Contact Us for more information on how a hosted
solution would work for your school district.
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