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Need advice for Network Job

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by tweakerxp 2 views

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I have been asked to give a proposal for a networking job. There is an existing computer that acts like a server along with six PC's. The company wants to add a "real" server and software. Applications that will be run are Invetory Tracking and Point of Sale. There are no touch screens for POS. Also a reliable backup system is a MUST. Right now they have nothing. The computer that they are using for the server is 4 years old.

I'm trying to keep the price around $6K to $8K or cheaper if I can.

I need some expert advice from you guys. Because I've been looking at servers and software and there is so much out there and I don't want to have to go back later and redo what I have already done because something doesn't work right.

What I'm looking at is and IBM server with MS SBS 2008 on it, maybe in a raid configration setup. I was looking at a tape drive for the backup system. As far as a Inventory Tracking and POS software, I don't have a clue.
That is where I need your help.

Thank you in advance! :)

5 replies

by bart777

I don't think SBS 2008 is ready yet but 2003 will do just fine if they're in a hurry.

RAID is a must. Friends don't let friends build servers without RAID!! The software package you need for the POS will dictate the configuration for disk space. At least do a RAID 1 with 140GB drives.

If you want to save a bit of coin for them as well, skip the taape drive and go with a series of 2 or 3 USB or Firewire drives. They can be removed and taken offsite just as well as tape and are cheaper and easier to use.

Sorry I can't help with the POS software. that's not something I've had to deal with. I'm sure some of the other folks here can assist you with that.

Have fun.

by mmauer

A mirror type raid would be good, types of raids i would recommend are Raid 1 and 10 depending on how many hard disks and storage you want to have. Most servers can handle raid 1 and 0 with out a RAID card check the main board features.

For Inventory Tracking and POS software not sure. Try your local software store to see if they have something like MYOB that will do there POS but for cheeper.

by tweakerxp

I was planning on 2003 after some investigation about 2008. It's not quite ready. The company I'm going to be working with , 2003 will do just fine. I was think about maybe a couple 250gb drives in Raid 1.

I haven't thought about external USB backups.

Is there software that will backup data automatically? The clients are not very tech savy. So I don't want something very complicated for them but will do a good job in backing up data automatically.

I have found a program called MIC Systems "Commander" that looks like it is what I'm looking for. Auto updates on product catalogs. Simple to use. At least what the video showed. Going to get the demo and try it out with the owner.

Any other suggestions on backups?

Thanks a MILLION!

by randerson

The customer is going to need a reality check. If you purchase new, that will only cover the hardware for the project. If you purchase used equipment you may be do something. Then the cost of Microsoft software, backup software will eat you up. And all this before you put in the cost of your labor. Unless you are doing this for free.

I would suggest used equipment, maybe check eBay for sbs 2003 version, quick books POS software with the quick books pro software for business and inventory control.

Then you are going to have to discount your rate to keep it in the ball park.

Good luck

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