The system has been designed to operating under the UNIX operating system. The reason this operating system was chosen is due to its multi-user capabilities. Arctic Data has been installing this operating system for the past 8 years with an excellent track record. Some of the unique abilities of this operating system are:

1. Easy connection to the Internet
2. Ability to share peripherals in the office. I.e.: Printers, storage media, backup devices, etc.
3. Connect either dumb terminals or Windows95 workstations to the main system
4. Security for both inside and outside the office

You have two options when installing workstations. The first type is a basic dumb terminal. These terminals are relatively inexpensive and are typically used for basic data entry. If the user needs to display graphic images, do word processing, browse the internet, or use any number of Windows based programs, a Windows95 workstation can be connected to the system. If a Windows95 computer system is installed as workstations, typically we recommend that a computer network be installed. If dumb terminals as used, all that’s required to connect the terminals is a standard serial connection.

One of the nice features of the system is that both type of connections can be used at the same time. For example, you could install a dumb terminal into the dispensing area since only orders will be entered at this workstation. In the doctor’s office you could install a Windows95 computer system, which will have the ability to run all the applications in the optometrist system as well as do word processing, faxing, etc.

Just about any type of printer can be installed in the system. Depending upon your requirements most offices have installed a combination of dot matrix and laser printers.