PCR Feature #6- Dedicated servers!

Hello Everyone,

PCR is functioning well at Sunnyside according to all the information I have read and the staff I have spoken with that work with it everyday. For today, one feature that I want to mention quickly is the dedicated server for PCR and what this means for FCPL staff.

What does having a dedicated server for PCR mean? To answer that, it is best to understand what it is not by mentioning how the current servers for CybraryN operate. Currently, the server for CybraryN shares a computer at most branches with a reservation kiosk or an OPAC. It shares resources with other programs and from what I understand, this is the reason why all library computers have to be turned on and logged in in a particular order. If the starting order is changed in any way, the LPT1 may not work, the login screen does not appear, etc.

Having a dedicated server for PCR means that there is no magic order to turning and connecting all the computers. You just turn on the public and staff computers, log them in, and everything is ready to go. Sounds a lot easier than CybraryN doesn't it? Post any comments you have, the PCR Task Force would like to hear from you. Have a great day.

J

Update 06/25/09

I have learned that not all locations will have a dedicated server. Apologies for the misinformation. Here is an explanation of the dedicated servers from Kathleen S:

PCR Management Console
The management console is the “brain” of the PC Reservation system. It contains all of the settings for the software. For larger locations (10+ PCs) this piece of the system will be installed on a dedicated PC stored in a back room/data line closet. For smaller locations (<10 PCs), the Management Console will be installed on a staff PC. IMPORTANT: This PC must be turned on, logged in and the Management Console window must be open and running in order for the rest of PC Reservation to work.

J