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Applies To

Spectra:

 

Article Information

Reference #: FQ 000SQL
Author: TechSupport
Created: 07.30.12
Last Revised: 05.23.23

FAQ - Upgrading to Spectra SQL

 

Q: What is Spectra SQL and does our studio need it?


A: If you're considering upgrading to Spectra SQL, take a look at the FAQs below to find answers to the most commonly asked questions about Spectra SQL.


Q:

What is Spectra SQL?
A:

Spectra SQL is a version of StudioPlus Spectra that has all the features of Spectra Professional, but uses a Microsoft® SQL Server® database instead of Microsoft Access.

Q:

What is Microsoft SQL Server?
A:

Microsoft SQL Server is a power database application. It is generally the most consistent and stable database format for companies of all sizes. SQL Server is the same database many large companies use to manage their mission-critical applications with terabytes of data and thousands of concurrent users. It is highly scaleable and dependable.
+ Read more about Microsoft’s SQL Server

Q:

Does our studio need Spectra SQL?
A:

Spectra SQL is designed for medium to large studios – studios that have more than six computers using Spectra simultaneously or that contain 50,000+ client records. Because Spectra SQL uses a Microsoft SQL Server database, your studio will need to be able to install and manage the SQL Server database and software.

Q:

What version of Microsoft's SQL is compatible with Spectra SQL?
A:

Microsoft SQL Server 2016 and higher are compatible with StudioPlus Spectra. The SQL Express version is free from Microsoft and includes a number of reporting tools. The full version includes more administrative and reporting tools. The full version is not required for Spectra SQL.

Q:

What are the system requirements?
A:

Make sure you have the following system requirements in place:

Server:
- Operating system: Windows Server 2016 or higher. 64-bit Windows 10 or higher.
- Pentium IV or AMD equivalent processor
- 8 GB RAM

Workstations:
- Operating system: 64-bit Windows 10 or Higher
- Pentium dual core or AMD equivalent processor or higher
- 8 GB RAM (1 GB video card)

Q:

How will my Spectra change?

A:

For most of your users, little will change about how Spectra functions. The biggest change will be how you maintain and connect to your Spectra database using the Spectra Database Utility. Backup procedures will also change. Compacting and repairing your database will no longer be necessary.

Q:

How long will my studio be down to convert to SQL?
A:

The SQL software can be installed before the conversion and need not interfere with your current operations. Once the converted database is returned to you, it should just be a matter of minutes to change the database connection information on each computer that is using Spectra. 

Q:

How do I get started?
A: If you think your studio may need to upgrade to Spectra SQL or are interested in more information, please email sales@studioplussoftware.com or call 888.862.4868.