Now - don't get us wrong... we'd love to talk with you!

But when you're paying us by the minute to help you... hmmm, you might want to think about whether you want to be gabby or just get "down to business".

Here are some of the things we typically do when we configure a networked POS system:

1. We make sure you have at least a 1.8Ghz CPU and 512MB RAM  (if you don't, you need a hardware update)

2. We make sure you are running Windows (FreePOS doesn't run on Apple computers - even in PC mode or whatever they call it)

3. We make sure you have all the equipment installed (that means each printer has paper, a power cord, a ribbon etc)

Next we ask you to connect each computer to the internet... this way we'll be able to login to each station (don't worry - you don't have to leave the internet connected to each station - this is just done during initial setup)   Here's a sample network:

We normally set the router (which may even have a switch built right into it) to 192.168.1.1

Then we assign static IP addresses to each POS station (.201 for station 1, .202 for station 2, .203 for station 3, etc etc)   The server is assigned to 192.168.1.200

Why do we use Static IP Addresses (skip this paragraph if you have a life)

The reason this IP addressing scheme was chosen is that many routers have a thing called DHCP running by default.  Not to get too fancy, but DHCP also assigns IP addresses to computers without an address.   We've never seen a DHCP server assign IP addresses in the .200-.250 range - so that's where we put our static IPs thus getting rid of a potential conflict.

Moving forward, we make sure each PC is on the internet.   If www.MyFreePOS.net pops up in your web browser then you are ready to give us a call.

Here are a couple of last points to consider:

1. Always use Category 5 or better cable.   And double check with your building code book (it's under the front seat of your girlfriend's pickup truck) to determine whether or not you need PLENUM cable or just regular PVC cable.

2. Remember that NETWORK PRINTERS plug into the switch.   SERIAL, USB, and PARALLEL printers plug into the closest POS station... so make sure your POS stations have enough free ports.

Now you are ready to schedule a remote access session.   Here's what to do:

1. Fill out a telephone support agreement and fax it to us

2. Call us at 540 243-0300 and schedule a time/date to work on your system

3. PRESTO!   After about 30-45 minutes per station you will be POS-ing!