This document is a check-off list, to be used when preparing for conversion to the ERS Linux based computer system.  READ CAREFULLY and be sure you have completed every step required, PRIOR to our conversion.

        All of the hardware changes can be made while still using your existing AlphaMicro system.  Once all of the requirements have been met, we will convert your data and install it via phone connection and set up a test database on the Linux server.  You will be able to access your data on both the Linux and the Alpha Micro computers from each terminal on your system.  This gives you the opportunity to do test transactions on the Linux at your leisure, to ensure that terminals, printers and branch connections are all working properly, while still doing your daily work on your existing AlphaMicro computer, thus ensuring a smooth final conversion from one system to the other.

Pre-conversion requirements:

You are responsible for having all hardware purchased and installed prior to ERS’ conversion.  You should work with an installer of your choice who will be able to take care of all of your hardware needs including the PC network, server and firewall hardware.  (See the list at the end of this document of installers who have already worked with ERS on Linux conversions.)

•  All terminals on a standard PC network with Windows 98 or greater and a minimum of 333mhz.   
   
•  EZ-Term 0.00.117 OR greater must be downloaded and installed on each terminal from ezterm.ers2000.com.  
   
•  All terminals and printers must be fully tested in the Linux practice database (printing vouchers, checks, history, reports via Program 33, backup, Sybil, etc) prior to data conversion.
   
• A reliable 24 hour Internet connection (DSL, cable modem or T1 are preferred) active and working on your network.  This Internet connection will be used for retrieving program updates, draft, ACH and ATM files, Home Banking and Shared Branch connections, so a reliable service is very important.
   
• A Watchguard Firebox Soho 6/tc model # WG006010 (approx. $450) hardware firewall in place and set to block ALL incoming connections is required.   Without this type of protection your  internal PC network will be at SERIOUS RISK of interference by computer hackers, with information theft, loss of data and serious damage to data systems possible.     (If you are on Home Banking, you already have this.)    
    
• Have in place a Liebert GXT2-1500R UPS (uninterrupted power supply) for backup (or an equivalent).  (approx. $950)   
• Wire Supply    Dave Malanader    1-317-786-4485     

•  Have in place an IBM X226 or X236 tower server (approx. $3000 - $3500) with Linux Enterprise Server software installed.
• Minimum requirements as follows:
• Memory = 500meg
• Hard Drives = Two 40 gig IBM 10K rmp scsi drives RAIDED
• DVD Ram Drive = Panasonic Model Number SW-9582                www.panasonic.com/industrial/computer/storage/dvdram/prods/specs/sw_9582.htm
• 2 port serial cards = Model PCI-200L (approx. $40 from www.bythrunner.com
   
• All hardware, software versions and installations MUST be to ERS specifications.   
   
• Installer must contact Jamie at 1-317-713-1000 ext 119 or via email to jamie@ers2000.com for instructions for downloading the ASHELL install files.
   
• ERS STRONGLY recommends you purchase a 3 year manufacturer’s on site  warranty when purchasing your IBM file server (typically $500-$600 for daily 9-5 response time)
   
• Order disks to be used for daily backup, report backup, history archives backup, etc.  Suggest a quantity of twenty (20) single sided OPTODISC DVD RAM 4.7 GB model OM470-200 Type 2.
   
• Make arrangements with your Credit Bureau(s) to use their secure online site for sending and retrieving credit bureau information.  You will no longer use Program #98 to retrieve reports, but will get them via the Internet.

ADDITIONAL EXPENSES

• ERS conversion and installation cost is approximately $1000-$2000 (based upon credit union size)

• An Ashell license fee will by charged by Microsabio for each connection (terminals, DSL connection, Sybil, 2 to allow ERS connection to your system, etc). The approximate cost is $1140 for the first 5 licenses and $200 per additional license.   (An annual Ashell license fee of approximately 15% of the original price will be charged each year following.)  

• There is no longer a trade-in value for Alpha Micro computers.

EXPERIENCED LINUX INSTALLERS

The following installers are familiar with our requirements, and can handle all of your hardware needs, including purchase and installation of network, PC’s, Zterm for Windows and the Linux file server.  Listed are the credit unions they have already worked with on this project, and a contact at that credit union

        Vox Match Corp -  Mike Meyers

        Indianapolis, In

        1-317-698-4181

                                Lakes FCU     Doug   574-583-5556

                                Midwest Family FCU    Shirley   219-763-5640   ext 314

                                All Seasons     Barb 317-381-7058

                                Tippecanoe FCU   Mary 765-448-1158

        Network Advocates - Tom Troutman

        Louisville, Ky

        Main   1-877-412-1050   Tom’s office direct   1-502-412-1050

                                Clark County FCU   Wanda   812-282-1207

        STC - Paul Becker

        Evansville, In

        812-479-7821    

                                Centurion FCU     Kris 888-877-7893