Technical FAQ
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Database
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Network
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Workstation
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Installation, Data Conversion, & Support
Database
What RDBMS does OncoLog run on?
OncoLog will run on Oracle version 8i and 9i and MS SQL Server 2000.
Can I purchase the RDBMS from Onco?
RDBMS software can be purchased from Onco. It is not required that the RDBMS software be purchased from Onco. Please contact the Onco Sales Department for current RDBMS pricing.
Do I need a dedicated machine as my database server?
It is recommended that you have a dedicated machine as your database server. A multi-processor server running Windows Terminal Server is recommended as an application server.
What database maintenance will I have to perform?
Other than backups, no additional database maintenance is required. It is anticipated that your facility provide a DBA on-site. If an on-site DBA is not available, Onco Inc. does offer database support services for an additional charge.
Network
What network operating systems does OncoLog run on?
OncoLog is network operation system independent. We only require connectivity between the client and database server. OncoLog will run on Windows NT or Windows 2000. See 1.1 above for RDBMS availability on each platform.
What are the server specs?
Database Server
(Chart)
What protocols can OncoLog use?
OncoLog can run on any standard networking protocol including IP, IPX/SPX, and NetBEUI.
Does the software need a dial-up connection?
OncoLog does not require a dial-up connection. However, a dial-up connection would be used by Technical Support if available. If Onco is providing database support services, dial-up connection is required.
Should my network be 10Mb or 100Mb?
OncoLog will run without a problem on 10Mb Ethernet. We do recommend that the software be run at 100Mb for optimum performance, especially if the programs are being run from a shared directory on the server. If using the application approach (i.e. Windows NT Terminal Server), network speed is unimportant.
Workstation
What operating systems does OncoLog run on?
If running Windows 2000 Terminal Server/Citrix as the application server, any client supported by Citrix will be supported (please see their website for hardware specifications). If running OncoLog as a client server application, Windows 2000 or Windows XP is required.
What are the workstation specs?
(chart)
Is the software 32-bit or 16-bit?
OncoLog is 32-bit.
How does the application handle printing?
OncoLog uses Windows print services. If you can print from other Windows applications you will have no trouble printing from OncoLog.
Do I need to have Microsoft Office installed?
Yes. OncoLog uses both Word and Excel for generating reports. Some of these reports are complex and use both macros and DDE communications. Because of this complexity OncoLog requires Microsoft Office 2000, Office XP or Office 2003.
Can the software be run from the server?
Yes, OncoLog can be run from a shared directory on the server. It is recommended that the software be loaded locally for optimum performance. If OncoLog is going to be run from a server, Onco strongly recommends running on 100Mb Ethernet. If running OncoLog with Windows Terminal Server or Citrix, all software will reside on the application server.
How often are software updates issued?
OncoLog issues bi-annual updates. These updates consist of new features and program enhancements. Additional updates may be issued throughout the year as the need arises.
How are updates distributed?
Updates will be mailed on CD-ROM. Updates will also be available via the World Wide Web.
Installation, Data Conversion, & Support
Do I install the software?
The program CD will be shipped to your site with an install program and installation instructions. Installation will require a DBA and an IT Technical person on site. Onco will provide necessary expertise to accomplish the installation at an additional charge if necessary.
How does the data conversion process work?
Please refer to the Data Conversion FAQ.
What do I have to provide for the data conversion specialist?
The conversion specialist will need to have a sample of your data for the initial survey. They will also need a record layout and a data dictionary.
What types of support are available to me?
Telephone support for trained registry staff is available from 6:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Pacific Time. E-mail support is available 24 hours a day. All e-mail messages get a response within one working day
Data Conversion FAQ
OncoLog Cancer Registry Software
Onco, Inc.
Click here for a printable version
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What is data conversion?
Data conversion is the process of translating the fields in your current database data file to OncoLog's database files. The conversion is based on mapping all standard NAACCR (North American Association of Central Cancer Registries) fields in your current data file to similar fields in OncoLog's data file.
What does the data conversion include?
Data conversion is primarily the migration of standard NAACCR data elements into the OncoLog database. Fields that are determined not to be part of the standard NAACCR record are considered "custom" fields and are quoted separately.
When will Onco begin my data conversion and what is my responsibility?
Onco, Inc.'s data conversion team will contact you to initiate the conversion process upon our receipt of your initial down payment. You will be asked to submit the physician file and/or hospital file from your previous database. Please be prepared to send a sample of your data file as soon as possible in NAACCR file format. When sending your data, please choose the appropriate media required to preserve the confidentiality of your data. We prefer to receive data via CD-ROM disk if possible.
When will my data conversion be ready?
A project schedule will be established during your initial conversations with your Onco Sales Representative. Continuous communication during the data conversion process is essential to maintaining this timeline. Typically, from the time when Onco receives your initial download, it is approximately four weeks later that the initial data conversion will be shipped to you for installation. You will receive detailed installation instructions. The data will be loaded initially into a temporary download database. This will provide you with the means to analyze your initial data conversion. Generally, training takes place within a few days of your receipt of the initial conversion. Then a period of time is allotted for data conversion checking and validation by your registry staff (usually 14 working days). Should any issues be identified, they are to be reported to the Onco Data Conversion team. Onco will make every attempt to rectify any reported problems. A second cut of the conversion will be sent to you for rechecking, to assure that the reported problems were corrected. Onco will then work with you to schedule a final download and final conversion. Typically, actual downtime is three to four business days.
Can I enter new cases while the data is being converted?
Yes, you will be able to continue using your old software system during the time that your data is being converted (this assumes a final download of your data from your old system). |
