Recommended Computer specifications

Recommended Network specifications

32-Bit/64-Bit: Ascend and Ascend Interfaces can be installed in either a 32-Bit or 64-Bit Windows environment. Ascend-HI and Ascend-IP are only supported in 32-bit Windows and not supported in a 64-bit Windows environment.

Server: The server must support long file names as used by Ascend. Both  Windows (Vista/XP SP2/2003 SP1/2000 SP4/NT4.x) Server and Novell 4.x/5.x support long file names.  However, the MS SQL Server database (2000; 2005; 2008) requires the Windows (Vista; XP;2000/NT; 2003; 2008) Server operating systems.

Server dial-in: Please provide Mediware with secure dial-in/VPN access to the server. This will facilitate the installation process, and is occasionally useful in troubleshooting software or database problems. Network security rights should be set up to prevent unwanted access. Mediware will sign the facility's standard HIPAA Business Associate agreement as needed.

Backup system: Backup hardware/software and procedures are the customers responsibility. Mediware does not provide backup software or related services. The customer should use MS SQL Server software (or, for MSDE databases, a command line option) to create a database backup file which can then be copied to tape or other media using typical backup systems. This process should be done at least daily, and include weekly/ monthly media rotation and off-site storage in accordance with normal IT standards of practice.

Monitors must be SVGA with a minimum resolution of 1024 x 768. A Microsoft mouse or compatible pointing device is required for each computer. Internet access is required at one computer workstation on the LAN to provide for program/database downloads from the Mediware Ascend website.  A tape unit, or alternative backup, should be of sufficient capacity to store all pertinent data on the server's hard disk.

Printers: Printers are normally shared for use by any computer which is part of the pharmacy network.  At least one HP-compatible laser printer  is recommended for reports.  A minimum of  one thermal printer (e.g. Zebra/Eltron), will be needed for labels. However, most users will want to employ at least two or more thermal  printers (e.g, one for IV labels of one size stock label, and another for other labels printed on another size of stock label ). You may need or want additional thermal printers for remote areas, to handle other label stock sizes, as a backup, and etc. 

Labels: Ascend requires label stock to be 3.5" wide.

Thermal label  printer recommendations:  Zebra Technologies [http://www.zebra.com/] provides thermal printers under their "Zebra" brand name and under their "Eltron" subsidiary name.  The thermal printers that operate in "direct thermal" mode are a good choice because they only require thermal labels and DO NOT require a separate roll of ink film. Other printers are "thermal transfer" models which require "thermal labels" on one roll AND "ink film" on another roll, much more complicated and costly to operate. Zebra, and several of our customers, tell us that the "direct thermal" printer versions provide very good print quality and are even suitable for barcodes.  Users typically  recommend that you don't bother with "label dispenser" models unless you want the labels to be cut as they roll out. 

Dot matrix (label) printers: Mediware does not recommend using dot matrix printers for reports or labels with Ascend.

Mediware provides the Ascend application software. Mediware does not provide network equipment or software, server or workstation computers, cable, operating systems, Microsoft SQL Server, SQL Server 2000, SQL Server 2005, SQL Server 2008, any SQL Server Express version, MSDE databases, Windows Vista, XP, 2003, 2000, NT or SQL Server client licenses, other third party software/equipment, or installation/training for these items. If required, these items are to be provided by the user/facility.

Note:
Mediware does not support Datamax I Series and M Series 4208 printers and Seagull Scientific drivers.