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Archive for September 19th, 2011

Platinum SQL and Microsoft SQL

Sep 19

Posted by Joe Abler in General | No Comments

As a reminder for those considering Platinum SQL, Microsoft SQL Server is not required to access Tabs3 and PracticeMaster data, or to run the Platinum SQL version.  SQL functionality is built in to the Platinum SQL Server Software.  However, Platinum SQL versions of Tabs3 and PracticeMaster can be used in conjunction with Microsoft SQL Server using the Linked Server feature.  Read on for more info!
 

Q) What is the relationship between MS SQL Server and Platinum SQL?

 

A) MS SQL Server has a feature called “Linked Servers” that enables SQL Server to execute distributed queries on diverse data sources such as Oracle, DB2 and Platinum SQL.

 

Q) Can I use Microsoft’s SQL Server instead of Platinum SQL?

 

A) No, STI’s Platinum software works exclusively with STI’s Platinum Server and Platinum SQL Server.

 

Q) Can I use Microsoft’s Linked Server feature with Platinum (non-SQL)?

 

A) No, the Linked Server feature requires OLE DB access, and therefore only works with the OLE DB-compatible ODBC driver that is included with Platinum SQL.

 

Q) How can I access my Tabs3 and PracticeMaster data?

 

A) Because of the open nature of Platinum SQL’s ODBC and OLE DB support, your database is easily accessible by 3rd party programs such as Microsoft Office (32 & 64 bit editions), Crystal Reports, and, with the Linked Server feature described above, MS SQL Server.

 

Q) How do I perform database maintenance such as adding indices and database backup?

 

A) Tabs3 and PracticeMaster are designed to not need the services of a Database

Administrator (DBA). Instead of using a database management tool to add an index or make a backup, you can perform these tasks within Tabs3 or PracticeMaster using screens designed to work like the rest of our software. Platinum also supports the Windows VSS backup system.

 

Who should use Platinum SQL?

  • Firms who would like accelerated ODBC performance, or have several people using ODBC
  • Firms that would like to use their 64-bit server processor and memory to handle large data files or many users with increased speed and performance
  • Firms who want to use Office 2010 64-bit (or any other 64-bit program) to access the data via the ODBC driver
  • Firms who want to use MS SQL Server Linked Server feature to query the Tabs3 / PracticeMaster database

Platinum and Platinum SQL Net 30 upgrades

Sep 19

Posted by Joe Abler in PR / Announcements | No Comments

For years we’ve made it easy for firms to try Platinum by offering Net 30 terms, which still exists today.  This offer is now available for firms upgrading from multi-user or Platinum, to Platinum SQL.  This is a perfect way for firms to test these advanced products with no money up front.  Once Platinum or Platinum SQL is installed, a firm is usually quite reluctant to return the product, because the benefits more than outweigh the cost.  If you have questions about the Net 30 terms, please contact a member of the Sales Department.