Before you install the software, carefully review our system requirements to make sure your hardware and network meet our minimum standards.
Firebird™ SQL Database
The DBA system includes the Firebird™ relational SQL database. Firebird only works properly under these conditions:
•The Firebird database must be installed on the same file server as the DBA software.
•Only use DBA with the version of Firebird supplied with the system (Firebird 3.0.4)
Firewall Exception TCP port 3050
The Firebird database uses TCP port 3050 for communications between the Server and Client Workstations. We recommend setting a firewall exception for TCP port 3050 for both outbound and inbound traffic on the Server and each Client Workstation.
Internet Access
Your company must be equipped with high speed internet access to use the DBA system. Our software registration keys, product updates, documentation, training videos, and online support are all delivered over the Internet.
Power Protection System (UPS)
An abrupt power loss or crash from unclean power is the most common cause of data corruption. Your file server requires clean and continuous power to function properly. Factories are especially subject to power fluctuations. It is imperative that you protect your server with a power protection system that includes surge suppression, power conditioning, and battery backup.
Database Backups
Your data is your most valuable asset and must be protected from day one. Accordingly, you must devise a database backup strategy and have the storage devices and backup plan in place. You must use the DBA Backup Manager to backup your Firebird database daily. When the Backup Manager makes a database backup, it creates a special FBK file that can be safely backed up with a generic software program or service.
Infographic - DBA Backup Manager
Network Type
DBA can be installed on most Windows-based client/server or peer-to-peer networks.
Network Server
•Operating System: Windows Server 2025, Windows Server 2022, Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2016, Windows Server 2012/2012 R2. Essentials, Small Business Server, Standard, and Datacenter editions supported on all versions listed.
•RAM: as required by the operating system
•Free Disk Space: At least 2 Gigabytes (GB)
•Solid State Drive (SSD) recommended for optimal performance
•Microsoft .NET Framework 4.5.2 or greater
•Wired Ethernet Connection
•Static IP Address
Hosting (Cloud)
DBA can be installed on a hosted server. Workstation access is provided via Microsoft Remote Desktop Services (RDS). Microsoft RDS CALs (client access licenses) are required.
Client Workstations
Client workstations access DBA through your local area network. A DBA Manufacturing Client gets installed on each client workstation to provide start menu access, desktop icons, a database engine, and online help.
•Operating System: Windows 11 Pro, Windows 10 Pro
•RAM: as required by the operating system
•Microsoft .NET Framework 4.5.2 or greater
•Wired Ethernet Connection required
WARNING: Do Not Run DBA Directly Over a Wireless Network
DBA client workstations should not connect directly to the DBA server over a wireless network.
Wireless connections are more susceptible to brief interruptions that can cause DBA to lose its connection to the server. This will result in disconnection errors, access violations, or an unusable DBA session.
If you need to use a wireless PC, tablet, or other mobile device, use Microsoft Remote Desktop to connect to either:
•A DBA workstation connected to the server through the wired local network, or
•The DBA server through Microsoft Remote Desktop Services.
In this configuration, the wireless connection carries the Remote Desktop session while DBA itself continues to run on the server or wired network.
Do Not Run the DBA Client Directly Across a VPN
Do not run a DBA client directly across a VPN connection to the DBA server.
A VPN extends the network connection over the internet, introducing latency and the possibility of interruptions that can affect DBA performance and database connectivity.
Instead, use Remote Desktop or Remote Desktop Services to connect to a computer located on the same network as the DBA database server, and run DBA from that computer.
Printers
•All reports and forms print in graphical format on any Windows-compatible laser or ink jet printer.
•The standard labels supplied with the system are designed to print on a continuous roll label printer with 4 inch wide labels. The default label sizes are 4 x 2 and 4 x 4.
System Performance Troubleshooting
The following article may help identify systemwide performance issues.
