Last updated on 27tj October 2009
Compulink does not sell any computer hardware, however, we can offer the below guidelines as to
what you will need. Because each store is different, you might consult with a local computer dealer to
determine your particular needs. You can get computers mail order or from a local shop that builds
them.
The Jewelry Shopkeeper software will work on almost any PC running Windows 7, XP or Vista but if you
do not have a computer, or you plan on buying a new one, we would recommend a more up-to-date
computer such as ne with the following specifications: The "processor" should be a Core Duo or AMD
equivalent; The hard drive should be 100GB or larger, and the RAM should be 4GB or more. You can use
either a flat (LCD) monitor are usual now. If possible see if the computer can include a parallel printer
port. Most of your backups will be done with USB Flash drive or onto CD's and DVD's so a special backup
system is not usualy required.
Windows 7, XP Professional or Windows Vista are compatible (32-bit preferred over 64-bit versions). If
you select a low $300 to $400 priced computer it will usually come with Windows Home - but you can
usually pay the extra $70 and request Windows Professional or Business. Expect a price range of $300
to $800 for a computer without a monitor.
For best customer support from Compulink, we highly recommend you have an internet e-mail account,
a LogMeIn account and a fax machine.
A UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is recommended for each computer. This is a battery and surge
protector in one which keeps your computer running in power outages or disturbances. A small $80 one
is usually sufficient to keep your computer up for 10 minutes or so but check with the seller on UPS
capacity requirements.
If you plan on point-of-sale use you probably need a network of computers (one or more for sales
registers, one or more for bookkeeping or inventory processing.) Note that registers require actual
computers, not just screens.
If your Shopkeeper is a single-computer version you may want to consider a network version to allow
simultaneous access to Shopkeeper from more than one computer.
For point-of-sale, you will want reasonably fast computers to speed the customer's transactions.
(sometimes people think to put slow computers thinking "It's only a register") This doesn't mean you
need to buy a particularly fast computer but it does mean you might not want to use your 6-year old
computer as the register.
The network features built in to Windows 7, XP Pro or Vista are sufficient for a small network of 2 to 8
stations. Don't get a special Server version of Windows unless you have a large network or special
applications that require a Server version.
Where possible avoid wireless networks - use cabled gigabit ethernet cables and equipment to connect
computers. Where you need wireless, use the faster “N” type.
For price-tags you use specialty barcode tag printers such as a Citizen CLP-6002, Citizen CLP-631,
Datamax E4204 or the FastMark 402. Note that barcode tag printers print tags ONLY (nothing else).
Standard laser and inkjet printers do NOT print price tags.)
Hardware & Equipment
