(This feature is available in BCSS Diamond and Virtual.)

Networking BCSS

Do not use mapped drives. Install the database on the main computer at C:\BCSS (the default location), share it and point the remote stations to it.

Important: Every computer on the network must be listed in BCSS Program Setup, Networks, Manage Locations. Location must be specified for multiple computers that are entering the same type of data. Otherwise the drop-down choice can be 'None Selected'.

Please note: When using any printer on a network, it is necessary to turn Networking and Sharing on and allow BCSS through the firewall (if any).

About BCSS Invoice Numbers: If sales are processed at more than one POS station, invoice #s will be odd-numbered to avoid invoice-number duplication. If sales are processed at only one POS station, invoice numbers can be made sequential by selecting 'None Selected' (for the POS PC) in Program Setup, Networks, This Computer's Location.

If your Internet modem has multiple ethernet connections, it may be possible to network computers through the modem.

Notice: Before attempting to use BCSS on a network:

• Make absolutely sure that the network functions properly. It should have commercial-grade components and ample power.
• Confirm that BCSS run properly on every PC on the network.
• Hire a local IT tech to assure proper network configuration. We cannot support networking remotely. This manual contains the information the technician needs for correct setup.
• It may be best to install BCSS and its database on a separate hard drive partition (to minimize the effects from Windows difficulties (like reinstalling Windows). In some cases Windows write-protects folders in C:\Program Folders. It may be necessary to install BCSS in the 'User' directory.

What is Networking?

'Networking' is the connecting of 2 or more computers for the purpose of sharing resources like data, connection sharing, printers, files, etc.

BCSS users typically network PCs so POS stations can process sales and prints receipts while the main computer in the back office (which stores the FoxPro database) can administer to tasks like adding and discounting inventory, printing price labels, processing settlements, communicating with clients and printing checks. See Run BCSS on a network.

It is not necessary to network computers to share data files. See Transfer Data.

Types of Local Area Networks

Wired Networks (LAN) are based up Ethernet technology - 2 or more computers in the same general location connected by RJ45 (Registered Jack) cables. Computers using different versions of Windows can be on the same network.

Wireless Networks (WLAN) utilize Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) technology - unreliable for commercial-grade applications.

BCSS Advantages

BCSS makes it affordable to network:

1. Additional copies of the software are $99 vs $295 at Liberty and Consignpro.
2. There are no ongoing annual service fees. (Consignpro annual fees double from $125 to $250 with 2 PCs in use. Liberty's fees are $611.40 per year for 5 PCs in use.)

The entire BCSS program can be run on any PC on the network. Some other programs (like Consignpro) don't allow this.

Windows Limitations

Below are network-shared limitations of Windows.

XP

Home: 5 Simultaneous Peer Network Connections

Pro: 10 Simultaneous Peer Network Connections

1. Vista and Windows 7 users count as 2 connections.

Vista / Win7

Home Basic: 5 Simultaneous Peer Network Connections

Home Premium/ Ultimate: 10 Simultaneous Peer Network Connections and 5 Media Center Extenders

Business / Enterprise: 10 Simultaneous Peer Network Connections

Email Support (Add the domain name mm.st to your email program's Approved Senders List or White List to lessen the chance that spam filters will block our emails to you. (Instructions) For phone and remote PC help, contact: Joy Archer, enJoy Consigning Services, 972-898-7921 (NY), Email, or Computer Mechanics, 800-448-1436 (MI), email.