Copyright: ® MicroAge


TechNotes Help
Welcome to TechNotes Help!

System Overview

What is the TechNotes System?

System Technical Requirements

System Basics

Getting Started

System Navigation

Understanding Product Categories

Using Queries

Using Keywords

Display Characteristics

Using the Lookup Window

Purpose of the Lookup Window

Locating Specific Products

Using the Query Generator

Lookup Printing

Using the Specification Window

Purpose of the Specification Window

Using the Specification Window

Using the Substitution Window

Purpose of the Substitution Window

Reviewing the Substitution Parts List

Refining the Substitute Parts List with a Query

Comparing Product Features

Displaying a New Reference Part Number

Displaying a Specific Substitute Part Number

Using the Configuration Window

Purpose of the Configuration Window

Building Configurations

Using the Component Window

Purpose of the Component Window

Searching the Component Window

Copying a Part Number for a Configuration

Using the Feedback Window

Purpose of the Feedback Window

Creating a Feedback Comment


What is the TechNotes System?

Purpose

System Users

System Benefits


Purpose

The TechNotes System is a support tool designed to help the MicroAge Sales and Technical staff serve client needs.  It provides quick and easy access to the most current product information.  TechNotes features advanced database technology, coupled with a Windows Graphical User Interface, and allows you to make more informed decisions when supporting clients via phone, mail, or fax.

The system allows you to quickly look up product or data sheet information, view a picture of the product, browse features, check for viable product substitutions, and create or verify product configuration information.


System Users

The TechNotes System has been designed for the Sales Support staff, the Product Support staff, and Customer Service Representatives.  It is assumed that system users already have a strong base knowledge of MicroAge products.


System Benefits

The TechNotes System is intended to replace current paper-based product specifications.  New product information, such as data or specification sheets, are incorporated into the system on a timely basis, eliminating the need to update and maintain multiple notebooks or binders with this information.  The system always has the most current information available and can be quickly checked for any changes which might have occurred when working with MicroAge clients.

Electronic faxes of this information can be generated from the system to your clients.  Likewise, hard copy of any system information can be easily produced when needed.  This saves the time of having to locate the actual data sheet, making copies, and then faxing the same information on paper.

Information about each product is provided in a consistent manner, eliminating the differences between vendor's product information.  This allows you to thoroughly compare and review products on a feature-by-feature basis with your clients.  You no longer need to spend time browsing paper data sheets, trying to locate product differences and similarities.

The TechNotes System is flexible.  It can be used to quickly find a single product, based on a MicroAge part number, or to locate a group of products, based on a keyword, vendor, category, price range, or status.  Query statements are automatically built, based on your selections, to help narrow product searches.  You can also browse product lists to locate and select a product, if you don't know the exact product you are seeking.


System Technical Requirements

The TechNotes application can be run on a PC or workstation that meets the following minimum requirements:

•	Windows for Workgroups, version 3.11 or higher.

•	Microsoft's TCP/IP protocol stack for Windows for Workgroups, version 3.1.

•	486/50 CPU

•	Minimum 12 MB RAM.

•	10 MB available on hard disk

•	Video card capable of 256 colors (16 color video will not satisfactorily display bitmap images)

•	Access to TechNotes Database on the MicroAge campus LAN

Consult your System Administrator if you are unable to confirm your workstation meets these requirements.  Your System Administrator also needs to set up your user access to TechNotes and the TechNotes Database.

NOTE: Although TechNotes can be run from a diskless workstation or directly from the network, performance will be significantly degraded.


Getting Started

To start the TechNotes System:

1.	In the Program Manager window, double-click to open the Tech Notes Program Group window.

2.	Double-click on the TechNotes icon (shown below) to start the program.

3.	The TechNotes opening screen displays.  Click anywhere on this screen to immediately display the login window (shown below).  Otherwise, the login window automatically displays within a moment.  Enter your User ID and Password, then click on the OK button.

4.	If your User ID and Password are accepted, the Lookup window displays and you are ready to begin using the system.  If not accepted, an error message similar to the one shown below displays.

5.	Try logging in again, making certain to enter your User ID and Password correctly.  If you still cannot login, contact your System Administrator for assistance.

NOTE:  You are allowed three attempts to login.  After the third failed login attempt, you are disconnected.  This is not a TechNotes login; it is a login to the network server with the TechNotes Database.  Any other application accessing this database will require the same Login ID and Password.


System Navigation

It's very easy to get from window to window in the TechNotes System.  The system is based on five main windows:

•	The Lookup Window - used to locate a specific product or group of products, based on client needs.

•	The Specification Window - used to provide detailed information about a specific computer, printer, or other product.

•	The Substitution Window - used to view and compare products that may be an acceptable substitute for a selected computer, printer, or other product.

•	The Configuration Window - used to view or enter known working configurations of the product.

•	The Compatible Components  (Part #'s) Window - used to view components associated with the selected product, such as cables, memory upgrades or storage devices. Can also be printed as a list or used to select components for building configurations.

Each of these windows provides a series of buttons along the bottom of the window.  An example of the buttons from the Lookup window is shown below.  Simply click on the desired button to change to that window.

NOTE: Each of the five windows remain open after use, but can be minimized.  Clicking a  navigation button places the current window in the background and brings the selected window to the foreground, updated with any changes you made in the previous window.  Make certain to use the buttons at the bottom of the screen to navigate between windows.  Using hot keys (such as ALT-Tab) to change windows do not carry your changes forward and may have unpredictable results!

Related Topics:

Using the Windows Menu


Using the Windows Menu

You can also use the Windows Menu on the Menu Bar to quickly change between TechNotes windows.

1.	Click on Window to display the drop-down menu shown above.

2.	Click on the TechNote window you wish to navigate to.


Understanding Product Categories

Within the TechNotes database, products are organized by category.  Products are described using a three-level category hierarchy. Understanding this relationship can help you quickly find the products you seek.

•	Top Level Categories - These are major classifications of products, for example, Computers, Printers/Plotters, and Monitors/Terminals.

•	Subcategories - This is a further division of the top level category.  For example, the top level category Computer might include 386 Systems, 486 Systems, and Macintosh Systems as subcategories.

•	Sub-subcategories - This is the lowest level division of a category.  For example, the subcategory 486 might include desktop, notebook, and tower sub-subcategories to further define the product type.

Categories, subcategories, and sub-subcategories are defined for products when they are entered into the system by data entry personnel.  Category and product selection are normally made in the Lookup Window.  An example of the category breakdown is shown below.

Memory is a top-level category, while Acer is slightly indented to the right under Memory, indicating it's a subcategory.  The items indented under Acer are sub-subcategories

The Category list is provides a quick visual reference of the relationship of products.  The scroll buttons provide an easy way to quickly move up down the Category list.  See Purpose of the Lookup Window for more detailed information on selecting categories.


Using Queries

The TechNotes System uses queries of the database to locate specific products.  These queries are transparent to the user, meaning they happen behind the scenes, with no extra effort required on your part.  For example, when you enter a specific MicroAge part number, the system searches the database for any matches.  The same process occurs as you navigate and select product categories.  In fact, you can see many queries being built as you make your selections.

Queries are built using a series of SQL statements as you select and enter information.  A sample of a Substitution screen query built to locate a substitute product is shown below.

For now, queries are display only; they cannot be altered or changed.  If you need to make changes, it's recommended to use the buttons provided, or simply back up and re-select the desired categories.

TechNotes queries also feature a Query Results field.  As you navigate or search for products, the number of items located during the execution of the query are displayed here.  You can refer here to see how many products were located.  A sample of the query results area on the Lookup window is shown below.

NOTE:  The smaller the number displayed here, the fewer products you'll have to browse through to find what you need.  If the number here is large, you may want to make your query more specific by selecting a subcategory or locating the product by part number, vendor, price, etc.

Most querying is done with the Lookup Window, since this window is used to initially locate a product.  However, the Substitution window also features query capabilities.  For more information on building and using queries, see Using the Query Generator.


Using Keywords

The Keyword feature is available on the Lookup Window and provides an alternate way of searching the database to locate product information.  However, it's recommended to first search the database by navigating or using the MicroAge part number for the product.

When you use a keyword, the system searches through single line product descriptions.  For example, if you are trying to locate a CD-ROM drive and enter only "CD" as the keyword, the query returns a list of any products that have "CD" as either a word or any part of a word anywhere in the description.  This is likely to include educational CD's, CD adapters, and other products that you must review in order to find what you need.

To perform a keyword search:

1.	If not already displayed, click on the Lookup Window navigation button.  With the window displayed, click on the Keyword button (shown below.)

2.	TechNotes displays the Keyword window (shown below).  Select a keyword from the list by clicking on it, then click on the OK button.  The system locates any products that have this keyword in the description and displays them on the Lookup screen.

NOTE:  If known, you can type the keyword.  The list automatically scrolls to that keyword.  You cannot, however,  specify a keyword that is not in the list.  You must click on OK (or, since OK is the default button, press Enter) to make the selection and return to the Lookup Window.


Display Characteristics

Lists

Displaying a Legend

Data Entry Fields


Lists

Two columns of icons at the beginning of each list are used to indicate the availability of products and information on those products.  An example is shown below.


Displaying a Legend

A legend which defines the meanings of the icons used in the first two columns of product lists can be displayed at anytime while working in TechNotes.  Simply click open the Help menu, then click on Legend.


Data Entry Fields

Throughout the TechNotes system, fields in which you can enter or edit data are distinguished by a drop shadowed, three-dimensional effect.  These are the only fields that accept your input; all other fields are non-editable.  An example of a data entry field is shown below.


Purpose of the Lookup Window

The Lookup Window can be used to quickly locate products based on your customer's needs.  The Lookup window is the initial window that displays when you open the TechNotes System.  In most cases, this is where you'll want to start when locating a product.  The Lookup Window allows you to:

•	Display product and category relationships.

•	Select a specific category of product for review.

•	Build a query to locate specific products and see the results.

•	Print a document with the results of the database search.

•	Sort products by part number, vendor, status and price.

•	Navigate to any other of the TechNotes windows - Specification, Substitution, Configuration, or Component.


Locating Specific Products

The topics below explain how to locate and select specific products, or categories of products.

Related Topics:

Displaying a Product List

Searching for Products


Displaying a Product List

To display a list of products for a category, simply double-click on the desired category on the Category list. TechNotes queries the database and returns a list of all located products in the Query result window.

Once a list is diplayed in the Query Result window, use the scroll down button to browse the list.   Products are listed in alphanumerical order, so click and hold on the scroll down arrow until the desired products are displayed.  TechNotes retrieves data from the database in partial sets if there are more than 10 records.  The message "Retrieving" appears above the Query Results list as you scroll down the list and more products are displayed.  This message changes to a number, indicating the total amount of records, once the total set has been retrieved.

NOTE: Because products are retrieved from the database in partial sets, it's easier to use the scroll down arrow than the scroll slide (thumb).  The scroll slide will not seem to position properly if used to scroll down the Query Results list.


Searching for Products

You can also search for products using the Category edit box on the Lookup window.  The edit box is illustrated below.

There are three types of searches you can perform using the Category edit box:

•	Exact Search - Enter an = followed by the specific product category to perform an exact search.  For example, = 486 SYSTEMS will highlight the first occurrence of "486 SYSTEMS" in the Category list.  Press Enter or click the Next button to highlight the next occurrence, then the next and so on.  This is a precise search and will only display exact matches to your entry.

•	Partial Search - Enter an * followed by a word.  For example, * BOARD will search for all occurrences of the word "BOARD" in the Category list.  The word can be independent, or part of another word.  BOARD LEVEL ENHANCEMENTS, KEYBOARD, MEMORY BOARDS are all examples of the types of categories that will be located using a partial search. Press Enter or click the Next button to highlight the next partial match, then the next and so on.

•	First Word Search - Enter the first word of the category you wish to locate.  For example, BOARD.  The search will locate all categories with the specified first word, such as BOARD LEVEL ENHANCMENTS. Press Enter or click the Next button to highlight the next occurrence, then the next and so on.

Once you have located the desired category, double-click on it to list the products in that category.  The following information is provided for each product:

•	Icons indicating the status of the product and what information is available

•	MicroAge part number

•	Vendor part number

•	Product description

•	Stock class


Using the Query Generator

You can use a query to quickly find a specific product, if you know what you are looking for.  Using the Query Generator allows you to search for specific products, based on one, or a combination, of the following search criteria:

•	MicroAge Part Number (independent search, you must know the exact part number)

•	Keyword (independent search, select from a list of keywords only)

•	Vendor (can be combined)

•	Category (can be combined)

•	Price (can be combined)

•	Status (can be combined)

For example, if you wish to quickly locate a product and you know the part number, you can use a Part Number Query.  However, if you were trying to locate a group of products, such as all Compaq 486 systems between  $2000 and $2500 that were in stock, you could use the Vendor (Compaq), Category (486 systems), Price ($2000-$2500) and Status (in stock) query options to narrow your search.  Any combination of these four query options can be used.  Although you can combine these four query options in any way, they cannot be used with the Part Number or Keyword searches.

The Query Generator is a series of buttons located on the right side of the Lookup Window, as shown below.  Note that both the Part # button and the Keyword button are separate from the other four types of queries, since these searches must be performed independently.

Related Topics:

Query Basics

Cancelling a Query

Clearing a Query

Querying by Part Number

Querying by Keyword

Querying by Vendor

Querying by Category

Querying by Price

Querying by Status

Sorting a Query


Query Basics

NOTE: The Substitution Window also features query capabilities.  The Substitution window's Query Generator is used the same way as the one on the Lookup Window.  The Lookup Window is used as an example throughout this section.

The basic steps for performing any type of query are:

1.	If you are building a new query, first cancel any query still in progress.  Then click on the Clear button to erase the Query window of any old information.  If you wish to simply amend the current query with more search criteria, do not clear the query.

2.	Click on the desired button to open a dialog box and enter query information.  Your entries appear in the Query window as you close each dialog box (or "build" the query).

3.	After you've built the query by selecting the desired options, click the Execute button to initiate the search.

4.	The number of matching items displays in the Query Results field, along with a list of the products located.

5.	Once the results are displayed, you can select products for further review, sort them, or if finished, cancel the current query and clear the results to begin a new one.

Detailed steps for performing each type of query are provided in the other topics in this section.


Cancelling a Query

A query (or the data retrieval process) can be cancelled at any time. While a query is in process, or you are browsing the Query Results list, all query generator buttons at the right side of the Lookup screen are disabled (grayed).  The word "Retrieving..." also appears above the upper right corner of the Query Results window.  You must cancel the current query before you can begin another.  Cancelling the current query reactivates the query generator buttons.

To cancel a query:


Clearing a Query

As you define search criteria using the Query Generator, each portion is added to the query statement in the Query window.  After executing the query, the statement remains intact; it is not automatically erased or cleared.  This allows you to amend the query with additional criteria if you'd like to make it more specific, then re-execute it.

As you work with queries to locate products, keep in mind that you must manually cancel or clear the existing query if you wish to start a new one.  Otherwise, any search criteria you select is simply added to your previous query and the results will not be what you expect.

To manually clear a query statement and begin a new one:


Querying by Part Number

A Part Number Query allows you to quickly locate a specific MicroAge product.

NOTE: This is an independent query; it cannot be combined with price or other query types.

To locate a product by part number:

1.	In the Lookup Window, clear the previous query, if necessary.  Then, begin by clicking on the Part # button in the Query Generator area.

2.	The Part Number dialog box displays.  Enter a valid MicroAge part # in the Part Number field, then click on the OK button.

If you don't know the exact part number, you can search for a partial part number by entering the first part of the part number.  Some examples are provided below:

•	APL-A-  displays part numbers for Apple products.

•	IBM-A-  displays part numbers for IBM products.

•	NEC-D- displays part numbers for NEC products.

 	The system queries the database for that part number.  Information about the product is displayed in the Query Results area.  An example for entering part number ACE-A- is shown below.

4.	You can now click on the product to select it, then use the Navigation buttons to go to one of the other TechNotes windows to view specification, configuration, substitution or component information.


Querying by Keyword

Keyword queries allow you to quickly locate a group of products based on a specific phrase or word in the description.

NOTE: The word must be part of the description in order for the system to locate the product.  For example, if you are trying to locate Pentium products, however the description for a certain group of products uses "686 Processor" instead of the word "Pentium," these products will not be located and displayed as part of the Query results list.

To locate products by keyword:

1.	In the Lookup Window, clear the previous query, if necessary.  Then begin by clicking on the Keyword button.

If a query is already in progress and you did not cancel and clear it, you'll see the warning message shown below displays.  Click Yes to clear the current query and continue.

2.	The Keyword dialog box displays.  Browse the list of valid keywords, using the scroll bar as needed (or simply type the desired keyword, then press Enter).  Once located, click on the keyword to select it.

3.	Click on the OK button to perform the query.  The system locates and displays a list of matching products.  An example is provided below.  Notice that all product descriptions have the word "PC" in them.

4.	You can now locate and click on the product to select it, then use the Navigation buttons to go to one of the other TechNotes windows.


Querying by Vendor

Vendor Queries allow you to quickly locate any MicroAge products manufactured by one or more Vendors.  For example, this is useful if you only wanted information on Apple products.  This method is also useful if you know the vendor part number of the product, but not the MicroAge part number.

To locate products by vendor:

1.	In the Lookup Window, begin by clicking on the Vendor button.

2.	The Vendor dialog box displays.  Browse the list of valid vendors, using the scroll bar as needed (or simply type the desired vendor, then press Enter).  Once located, click on the vendor to select them.

3.	If you wish to find products from more than one vendor with this query, click the And button and repeat Step 2.  The query is amended with an "and" statement for each subsequent vendor you add.

4.	If you wish to locate a specific product and know the vendor part number, enter it in the Vendor Part Number field.

5.	Click on the OK button to add the vendor name and vendor part number to the query.  Click on the Execute button in the Lookup window to force the system to locate and display a list of matching products.

NOTE:  You must combine Vendor searches with a Category search.  Click on the Cancel button to cancel any changes and return to the Lookup window.

6.	You can now locate and click on the product to select it, then use the Navigation buttons to go to one of the other TechNotes windows to view specification, configuration, substitution, or component information.


Querying by Category

This type of query lets you locate a category of products by navigating, then combine other types of queries, such as price or vendor.

To locate products by category:

1.	Select the desired category of products.

2.	In the Lookup Window, click on the Category button.  The category is added to the Query window.

3.	Click on the Execute button.  Any matches are displayed in the Query Results area.

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Querying by Price

This type of query is useful when customers request only products in a certain price range.  When you search by price, you specify the low end and the high end of the range.  The system automatically accounts for the standard margin on products.  You can combine this type of search with other queries, or search based on price alone.

To locate products based on price:

1.	In the Lookup Window, begin by clicking on the Price button.

2.	The Price dialog box displays.  If a price range already exists in the query, the Price dialog box contains the previous values.  Any changes you make to these values will be reflected in the query statement.

Enter the lowest price in the Minimum field, then enter the highest price in the Maximum field.  Click the OK button.

3.	The price range is added to the query statement being built in the query window.  You can continue to add other types of queries such as category, vendor or status.  Once you have added all desired searches to the query, click on the Execute button.  Any matches are displayed in the Query Results area.

NOTE: The search criteria is the entered amounts reduced by the margin.  The query is actually based on the product raw cost.


Querying by Status

Querying by status lets you quickly locate products based on whether or not they are in stock, new products, special order, etc.

To locate products based on status:

1.	In the Lookup Window, begin by clicking on the Status button.

2.	The Status dialog box displays.  Locate the status you wish to add to the query and click on it to select it.  Alternately, double-click on a status to add the status to the lower window.  Double-clicking on a status allows you to continue adding other statuses, further narrowing your query.  Once the status(es) is selected, click on the OK button.

3.	The status search criteria is added to the query statement being built in the query window.  You can continue to add other types of queries such as category, vendor, or price.  Once you have added all desired searches to the query, click on the Execute button.  Any matches are displayed in the Query Results area.


Sorting a Query

This function sorts the products in the Query Results box.

To sort products located with a query:

1.	Click the Sort button.

2.	Choose the desired sort criteria.  The products will be sorted in the order you make these selections:

•	by part number

•	by vendor

•	by status

•	by price (cost)

3.	Indicate whether you want to sort in ascending or descending order.

4.	Click on OK to perform the sort.


Lookup Printing

This function prints a hard copy of information located with a query.  If your current print driver is a fax server, a fax is sent instead.

1.	Use Windows print setup to select the desired print driver.

2.	Click on the Print button (or choose Print from the File menu).

3.	The list of products in the Query results box and that query that generated them are printed.


Purpose of the Specification Window

The Specification Window displays detailed information about any product.  If you previously located and selected a product in the Lookup Window, specifications for that product are automatically displayed here.  You can also enter a MicroAge part number directly in this window to display the product specification.  Information here can be viewed for reference, printed as a hard copy, or faxed directly to a client.

Each product specification includes the following:

•	A high-resolution image of the product (a bitmap picture).

•	A positioning statement or description of the product.

•	Any appropriate technical details, as provided by the vendor.


Using the Specification Window - Using the Specification Window
Using the Specification Window

The Product Specification Window consists of three main areas:

•	Product Image - displays a high resolution image of the product.

•	Product Description - contains a brief product positioning statement or other description of product purpose.

•	Technical Detail - displays applicable technical details about the product.

If you previously selected the product using the Lookup Window, product information is automatically displayed when you use the Specification navigation button to move here.  The MicroAge part number for a product can also be entered here to display the specification for that  product.  Detailed explanations and procedures for using the Specification Window are provided in the topics below.

Related Topics:

Viewing the Product Image

Viewing the Product Description

Viewing Technical Features

Displaying A Different Product Specification

Specification Printing


Viewing the Product Image

Product images are scanned into the system as bitmaps from the vendor's specification sheet.  Product images appear in the upper left hand corner of the Specification Window.  The rest of the window automatically adjusts to accommodate the size of the picture.  An example of a product picture is shown below.

NOTE:  If a picture is not available for a product, a notice indicating this displays instead.


Viewing the Product Description

The product description appears to the right of the bitmap picture, if a picture is present.  This is usually a product positioning statement, general description, or summary of features.  A sample product description is shown below.  Use the scroll bar as needed to view more description.


Viewing Technical Features

Technical Features appears under the picture (if a picture is present).  This area allows you to view individual details about the product, based on your client's needs.  You can either browse this information or select only the type of information you need.

To browse technical features:

•	Simply use the two arrow buttons (shown below) to move forward or back through each technical feature.  The type of information you are viewing appears to the right of the arrow buttons, such as "Slots/Bays" in the example below.

To view a specific technical feature:

•	Simply use the Detail buttons along the right side of the window.  Each button represents a specific feature.  The types of information available depend on the category of the product.  The choices for the category CPU are shown in the example below.


Displaying A Different Product Specification

The Specification Window allows you to display the product specification for any MicroAge product, provided you know the exact MicroAge part number.

To display a different product specification:

•	Type the MicroAge part number of the desired product in the Part Number field (shown below), then press the Enter key.  The specification for that product displays.


Specification Printing

See Lookup Printing.


Purpose of the Substitution Window

The Substitution Window allows you to quickly find substitute or equivalent products for your customers.  Navigating here from the Lookup Window after selecting a product automatically displays products in the same category.  Product substitutions are displayed in order of availability, with those with the highest quantity in stock displayed at the top of the substitution parts list.

You can browse the substitution parts list and select a product.  If many possible substitutes are displayed, you can use a query to refine the list based on vendor, status, or price. A "Reference part vendor only field allows you to select whether you want to see all possible substitutes (regardless of vendor) or only substitutes products from the same vendor.

Once a substitute product is located, you can compare it side-by-side against the reference product.  This allows you to review specific technical and feature compatibility to best meet your customer's needs.  The Substitution Window allows you to directly enter both a reference MicroAge part number and a substitute MicroAge part number, if you'd like to review other products while in this window.


Reviewing the Substitution Parts List

Any substitute products in the same category are automatically displayed on the Substitution Parts list when you navigate to this window.  Products are displayed in order of availability.

The Substitution Parts label above the list shows how many possible substitutes were located.  If this number is large, you might need to refine the list with a query to locate more specific substitutes.  See Refining the Substitute Parts List with a Query for details on this procedure.  If you want to see only substitutes from the same vendor, use the "Reference part vendor only" checkbox

To review the Substitution Parts list and select a product:

1.	Use the vertical scroll bar as necessary to move up and down the list of products.  Because some descriptions are longer than can be displayed in the window, you might also need to use the horizontal scroll bar to read the complete description.  An example is shown below.

NOTE: Products are sorted by availability in descending order.  Scrolling to the far right of the window shows product availability as of the last database update.  The figures here could be several days old, so use them only as a guide.  Negative availability numbers indicate the quantity of the item that is on back order.

2.	Once you've located the desired substitute product, double-click on it to select it.  The part number of the selected product appears in the Substitute Part # field.  Description information for the product appears in the window just below this field.  You can now compare the two products on a feature-by-feature basis.  See Comparing Product Features for details on this procedure.


Refining the Substitute Parts List with a Query

Because there may be many possible substitutes for a product, the Substitution Parts list can be quite lengthy.  Although you can browse the list to find what you need, it's often faster to refine the list with a query to reduce the number of products you must review.

Querying here is identical to querying in the Lookup Window.  The only difference is that you cannot query by category here, only within the currently selected category.  If you wish to change categories, you must return to the Lookup Window.  The Substitution Window allows you to query by Status, Vendor, and Price, or any combination of these three.

To generate a query:

1.	If you are building a new query, click on the Clear button to erase the Query window of any old information.  If you wish simply to amend the current query with more search criteria, do not clear the query.

2.	Click on the desired button to open a dialog box and enter query information.  Your entries appear in the Query window as you close each dialog box (or "build" the query).  If you need more information on this process, see Using the Query Generator.

3.	After you've built the query by selecting the desired options, use the Execute button to initiate the search.

4.	The number of matching items displays next to the Substitution Parts label, along with a list of the products located.

5.	Once the results are displayed, you can select a product for comparison or clear the results to begin a new query.


Comparing Product Features

After selecting the substitute product you wish to review, you can compare individual product features side-by-side.  There are two ways to do this:

•	Browse the features in a set order.

•	Select a specific feature for review.

To browse product features in a set order:

•	Simply use the left and right arrow buttons (shown below) to move forward or back through the features.  The feature you are currently viewing appears just to the right of the arrow buttons.  Reference Part Number information appears in the left window below these buttons, while Substitution information appears in the right window.

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Selecting a specific feature for review:

1.	Click open the Features menu on the Substitution Window menu bar.  A list of valid features for the selected category displays.

2.	Click on the desired feature.  Reference Part Number information appears in the left window, while Substitution information appears in the right window.


Displaying a New Reference Part Number

At any time while using the Substitution Window, you can select a new reference part number.  You must know the exact MicroAge part number of the product you wish to view.

To display a new reference part number:

•	Type the desired MicroAge part number in the Reference Part field (shown below), then press Enter.  Information about this product, as well as any substitutes, displays.

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Displaying a Specific Substitute Part Number

If you wish to compare a specific substitute product against your selected reference, you can enter the part number directly to display that information.  You must know the exact MicroAge part number of the substitute product you wish to display .

To display a specific substitute product:

•	Type the desired MicroAge part number in the Substitute Part # field (shown below), then press Enter.  Information about the substitute product displays.

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NOTE:  The system does not validate your entry as a viable substitution when you use this method!


Purpose of the Configuration Window

The Configuration Window is used to quickly and easily meet client needs by building a system from a known set of components.  Starting with a CPU, you can add compatible components from chosen categories.  You can save the configurations for future use and delete those that are no longer needed.

When you navigate to the Configuration Window, it opens with the selected part number from the previous window.  You can enter a new part number if you need information about that part number.


Building Configurations

Building configurations for systems can save you time.  For example, if there are some types of systems you regularly refer to your clients, building a configuration allows you to quickly recall that information. There are three ways you can build a configuration, by selecting components, by typing the desired component part numbers, or by cut and pasting the information from the Component Window.

Related Topics:

Selecting Components

Adding Custom Components

Saving a Configuration

Opening a Saved Configuration

Deleting a Configuration


Selecting Components

To build a new configuration by selecting components:

1.	In the Category area of the window (shown below), click to select the category of the items you wish to add to the configuration.

2.	Compatible components in the selected category are shown in the QIC Components area to the right.  Locate the component you wish to add and double-click on it to add it to the System Configuration area in the middle the window.

3.	Continue Steps 1 and 2 to add other components to the configuration.

4.	If you add something by mistake and wish to remove it from the configuration, first doubl-click on it in the System Configuration area, then click on the Delete button in the right corner of the window.  The selected component is removed.

5.	The Clear button can be used to remove all components (except the first line, which is the system) from the configuration, whether it is one you have built and saved, or a saved one you have opened.


Adding Custom Components

The Custom Components area of the Configuration Window can also be used to build or add to a configuration.

To add Custom Components:

1.	If you know the part number of the component you wish to add, type it directly in one of the ten data entry fields.  Otherwise, you can paste (CTRL-V) a part number that you've copied from the Component Window in one of these fields.

When you save the configuration, any components entered here are added and will appear on the System Components list with a description.


Saving a Configuration

Once you have built a configuration, you can save it.  TechNotes allows you to save many configurations.  Once saved, a configuration can be recalled by you or other system users whenever needed.

NOTE: When you save a configuration, you do not assign a name.  The configuration is stored in the database by your User ID, cpu part number and date/time.

To save a configuration:

1.	Complete building the configuration (or modifying the existing one).

2.	Click on the Save button.  All contents of the System Configuration area are saved.

3.	A message displays acknowledging that the configuration has been saved.  Click on OK to continue.


Opening a Saved Configuration

Saved configurations can be opened and edited whenever needed.

To open a saved configuration:

1.	Click on the Open button in the bottom right corner of the Configuration window.

The Saved Configuration window opens.  Any saved configurations display.  If the three windows here are empty, there are no saved configurations.

2.	Your User ID appears in a data entry field at the top of the window.  If you wish to use a configuration another user has saved, enter their User ID here and press Enter.  Any configurations that user has saved are recalled and displayed.

3.	Locate the configuration you wish to use.  The three windows are used as follows:

•	Reference Part Number (left window) - displays a list of part numbers for which configurations have been saved.  Click on a part number here to see more information about it.

•	Date and Time (middle window) - displays a "time stamp" to help you distinguish which configuration is the most current.  It is possible to save multiple versions of the same CPU part number for different purposes.  Click on a date/time to see the components in that configuration.

•	Items (right window) - displays a list of all components that were saved as part of the configuration for a selected part number.

4.	Once you have located the desired configuration, select a CPU and date/time.  Click on the OK button.  You are returned to the Configuration window and can use or modify the configuration.


Deleting a Configuration

You can delete any configurations you have saved.  You cannot, however, delete any configurations saved by another user.

To delete a saved configuration:

1.	In the Saved Configuration window, locate and select the configuration you wish to delete (select a CPU and date/time).

2.	Click on the Delete button to remove the configuration.  The configuration is removed.


Purpose of the Component Window

The Component (Part #'s) Window serves two basic purposes:

•	It provides an on-screen display or printed list of all know compatible components for the selected item.

•	It can be used to cut and paste part numbers to build configurations in the Configuration window.

When you navigate to the Component Window, it opens with the selected part number from the previous window.  You can enter a new part number if you need information about that part number.


Searching the Component Window

You can quickly find a needed component by searching for it.  Search capability here is limited to a simple word search on the selected product.

To search the Component Window:

1.	Type the desired search word in the Find Next entry field.  For example, if you were interested only in memory options, type "memory."

2.	Click on the Find Next button.  The first occurrence of the word is highlighted.

3.	Click Find Next to locate the next occurrence, or type a new search word to continue.


Copying a Part Number for a Configuration

Part numbers listed in the Component Window can be quickly copied for use in building configurations.

To copy a part number:

1.	Search for the desired component, if necessary.  Once located, highlight the part number.

2.	Press and hold the CTRL key, then press C.  This copies the part number to the Windows clipboard.

3.	Switch to the Configuration window.

4.	Click in one of the empty Custom Component fields.  Press and hold CTRL, then press V.  This pastes the part number from the Window's clipboard to the entry field.

5.	Repeat these steps as necessary to add other components to the configuration.

6.	Save the configuration after all components have been added.


Purpose of the Feedback Window

The Feedback Window provides a way for you to communicate discrepancies or problems with the data and specifications.  For example, if you find obsolete technical details in a product specification.  Database administration is notified and the problem can be corrrected.  The correct data is then immediately available to all TechNotes users.

You can also use the Feedback Window to report problems or make suggestions for changes or new TechNote features.


Creating a Feedback Comment

To create a feedback comment:

1.	Click open the Help menu, then click on Feedback.

The Feedback window opens as shown below.   System version information is shown in the upper left portion of the window.

2.	In the Context area, click on the radio button that corresponds to screen where the problem was encountered.  Use General if the problem is not related to a particular screen.  You can only select one button at a time.

3.	Type your comments in the Feedback Comments section of the window.  Try to make your comments as accurate and detailed as possible.  You can click on the Clear button to clear the text area.

4.	Click on the Save button.  A message window appears with a confirmation number.  Write down the number for future reference.

Related Topics:

Checking Feedback Status

Displaying the TechNotes Version


Checking Feedback Status

Feedback comments can be checked to see when they have been resolved.

To check the status of a feedback comment:

1.	Click open the Help menu, then click on Feedback Status.

2.	The Feedback Status window opens.  Type the number of the comment you wish to check in the Log number box, then press Enter.

3.	Status is displayed in the bottom portion of the Feedback window.


Displaying the TechNotes Version

The About option on the Help Menu can be used to quickly verify the version number of TechNotes.

1.	Click open the Help menu, then click on About.

The About Panel displays with the current TechNotes version number.

2.	Click OK to close the panel and return to TechNotes.