Download Document

How do I set up the integrated backup solution? 

Answer:

OCS has two levels of backup: a standard

backing up of data files and executables, and a backup to a Secondary server.  The required level of data recovery is primarily dependent on how quickly the OCS server needs to be brought back up.  A Secondary server can be switched to be the Primary in a matter of minutes (for a detailed explanation for setting up an OCS Secondary server, see “How To Setup a Secondary Server”) whereas a standard backup requires that the Primary server (or its replacement) be reloaded before copying in the configuration files. 

Standard Backup Solution

This option backs up the purse data in real-time, and the OCSPROG folder daily.  To set up this option, begin by executing OCS Manager (OCSMGR.EXE).  Next, go to UTILITIES > OPERATING PARAMETERS > ACCOUNTS > SYNCHRONIZATION / BACKUP SETUP.  When the window appears, do the following steps: 

STEP 1 – Type in Name of designated Back up Server

STEP 2 – Type in the time desired Back Up time.

STEP 3 – Click the UPDATE button

STEP 4 – Click button to turn ON

STEP 5 – Click BACKUP ALL NOW.  Do this only when setting up the BACK UP for the first time.

• OCS recommends using a separate PC or server to host the backup, in case there is a hard drive failure in the OCS server. 

• The backup process should only run during off-peak hours to avoid unnecessary stress on the OCS server.

Advanced Backup Solution

OCS has been designed to operate with a primary server, as well as multiple secondary servers.  The secondary servers allow for:

a)      Load Balancing – The secondary servers can act as alternate print servers, to divide the handling of print jobs between multiple locations.

b)      Real-Time Backup – All data is kept current between the primary and secondary servers.  If one server fails, then the accounting information, including balances and history, is not lost.

c)      Minimize Down Time – In cases where the primary server goes down, a secondary server can be brought up quickly to act as the primary server. 

The secondary server is installed in the same manner as a primary server – by running SETUP.EXE (see the document titled “Server Installation” for more information).  The key difference is, when setting up the port information, the “Set This Computer As Secondary” button should be selected.  

This will prompt you to enter in the name of the Primary OCS server. 

The secondary server should be configured identically to the primary server, including having all of the same printers installed. 

Currently, there is no automatic fail-over installed in cases where the primary server goes down.