Installation guide

Chapter 9: Setup the Optional Computers and Printers 63
Comments on purchasing Computers
Again, like the purchasing of overhead monitors, price can have a large bearing on the decision for which
computer to purchase to use with the system, but the following factors should also be taken into account when
purchasing computers and other hardware:
 Quality: The cheapest computer is not necessarily the best. Consider that the
usual life of a scoring system is at least 10 years and that any
computer that will be reliable for that length of time must be well built
(and well maintained.) Beware of Cheap Systems. A computer that is
for sale at a low price often contains low-end components and a flimsy
case.
 Presence: Go with a supplier who is reputable and present in the local community.
Although name brand computers have the advantage of being generally
very well built, a reputable local supplier should be in a position to offer
continuing technical support if you experience any hardware troubles.
 Speed: Obviously the quicker the better, but basically any NEW computer that
will run the current version of Windows comfortably will easily run the
software. There is a tendency for computer manufacturers to only
supply the minimum amount of RAM to run Windows, which can lead to
the computer running slower than it need be. It is recommended that
each computer include at least the amount of RAM recommended for
the current version of Windows.
 Operating System: The Duo system software is designed to be run on a home or small
business PC running the current version of Microsoft Windows. It is
recommended to use XP Professional or later, however the system will
still operate using XP Home. Windows 98 or earlier is NOT
recommended. Windows Vista is fully supported.
Comments on purchasing Touch Screens
Touch Screens are special LCD monitors that have driver software that you load onto your computer. They
include sensors on the screen that detects your finger touching it and then act like a mouse click on your computer via
a USB or Serial cable.
Touch Screens are not essential equipment for the system to function, it will work quite fine using a mouse
instead. However, a Touch Screen is very professional looking and will impress your customers.
There are three basic types of Touch Screen, Capacitive, Resistive and Surface Wave:
 Capacitive Touch Screens use your finger as an earth point to detect the location of a touch on the screen.
The advantage is that the screen is very clear and easy to read. The disadvantage is that only a skin touch
will work, you cannot use a fingernail, pencil or gloves.
 Resistive Touch Screens use two thin layers of plastic separated by tiny plastic beads. When you touch
the screen, contact is made between the two layers to determine the touch position. The advantage is that
any pressure of the screen will detected as a touch. The disadvantage is that the layers of plastic and the
beads make the screen slightly less clear than a capacitive screen.
 Surface Wave Touch Screens use the dampening effect of your finger on any other soft object to stop a
wave being oscillated through the glass screen. The big advantage of this type is that there is no coating or
overlay used that can be damaged or worn out compared to other technologies.
Any type of screen will work with the system. The decision between the three types is a personal preference.
However, general consensus is that the Surface Wave technology is superior.