Which CD do I use for a new installation?

Always use the latest CD you have received.  All the updates are full working versions of EARNIE. Remember this product can be updated with patches.

Can I use my update CD to install to a new location?

Yes. Every update CD we send out is a full working version of the software.
See the installation FAQs available on each CD.

 Remember for EARNIE IQ you can receive patches to update.

What operating systems are compatible with SQL Server 2000 and
SQL Server 2005?

The following links show charts detailing the compatibility of SQL Server 2000 and 2005 with the various operating systems available. If you are concerned about any
of the information provided below please contact support prior to purchase.

SQL SERVER VERSION 2000

SQL SERVER VERSION 2005

Why do I need to install EARNIE IQ server on a separate instance of SQL?

There are a number of practical and technical issues that are raised when considering where the EARNIE IQ databases can be placed. 

Collation Settings

Each instance of SQL Server has a collation setting. Also, each database and character field has a collation setting. The collation setting indicates the character
set used and, whether case is considered when comparing letters. The collation effects the operations performed on all character data, such as concatenation and comparison. These operations can only be performed on characters that are defined as the same collation. The databases restored during installation have a collation. If the server level collation setting differs from the installed databases then problems will be encountered when a new database is created.

Naming Conventions

Each object in SQL server has a name that uniquely identifies it. Although every effort has been made to ensure uniqueness it is possible that clashes may occur with databases provided by other venders. In most circumstances this does not cause a problem, however, SQL server will not allow objects that cannot be uniquely identified.

Load Balancing

When considering the placement of the EARNIE IQ databases the amount of activity expected should be considered. Heavily utilised databases should be kept separately to prevent network or server bottlenecks. Consideration should also be given to the levels of availability required for each set of data.

Data Security

Security of payroll data is always a concern to employers, therefore, careful consideration has to be given to whom and what has access to the data stored in each instance of SQL Server. Applications and users that access information on an instance of SQL Server may be able to read data held in other databases on the same instance or even other instances.

From the issues discussed the best practice is for the EARNIE IQ databases to be placed in a separate instance of SQL Server whether this is located on a server with other instances or on a separate server depends on the expected loading.