What to Look for When Replacing Your AutoBiz Computer
Are your workstations having a hard time switching between windows in AutoBiz? Is your server computer sluggish and bogging down your whole system? If so, you may be looking to upgrade or even replace your existing computer or computer system. The good news is that this doesn’t mean that you need to break the bank to improve the speed and productivity of your system.
The age of your computers may determine if a simple hardware upgrade will suffice, or if a replacement is necessary. Most computers that were purchased with Windows XP or Windows Vista installed will more than likely be difficult to upgrade due to their age. If you have a Windows 7 or 8 computer, purchasing additional memory may give the computer a decent speed increase and extend the viable life of the computer. By going to your computer manufacturers’ website, you can check the specifications of your computer to find the exact type of memory you need as well as how much additional memory your system can use. Adding memory is a relatively easy task (there are lots of tutorial videos on YouTube), but don’t hesitate to bring your computer to a professional for installation if you’re not completely sure you know how to install it.
If your computer isn’t worth upgrading, if it’s running the no longer supported Windows XP, or if you just feel more comfortable replacing it altogether, the cost to do so is much less today than it has been in the past. And an average computer purchased today will run significantly faster than a comparably priced computer purchased 5 years ago. Though AutoBiz may use the terms “Server Computer” and “Workstation”, a true Windows server is not needed to run AutoBiz. Conveniently, most computers running either Windows 7 or Windows 8 can be used as the AutoBiz server computer. For good performance, a server computer should have at least 6GB of RAM, and a workstation should have 2GB of RAM. With prices beginning around $400 (US) for a server computer and $300 (US) for a workstation, you can finally replace that old machine that has been giving you fits, and increase your efficiency.
One convenient option that some of our customers have using as of late, is installing AutoBiz on a tablet computer. In the last several months, many models of these tablets have entered the marketplace that will allow you to have a fully portable version of AutoBiz to use throughout your shop. If in the market for such a device, be aware that the tablet must run a full version of Windows 8 or Windows 8.1. Computers with an Apple or Android operating system, or those running Windows RT, will not run AutoBiz.
When you’ve finally decided to take the plunge and replace your computers, feel free to give us a call and we can help you compare specifications and help make the right choice for you. Once you have purchased the computer (or computers), call us and make an appointment for installation. Transferring the server computer will take a little more time than installing a workstation, so we will set an appointment that not only gives us plenty of time to complete the task, but as much as possible is during your off-peak hours to lessen any potential downtime during the switch.
If you have any questions about upgrading your system, please do not hesitate to call your AutoBiz Support Team at 916-576-2021.