PLEASE NOTE:
The majority of the contents in this guide apply to both StudioPlus Spectra AND myStratus Desktop.
In most cases, instructions referring to "Spectra" also apply to myStratus Desktop.
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Home > Data Management > FAQ - Upgrading to Spectra SQL
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 2005, 2008, and 2012 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 2008 Standard R2, Windows Server 2012 Standard, or Windows 7 Pro
- Pentium dual core or AMD equivalent processor
- 8 GB RAM
- Two 80 GB hard drives (StudioPlus will provide the RAID configuration)

Workstations:
- Operating system: Windows 7 Pro or Window 8 Pro
- Pentium dual core or AMD equivalent processor
- 2 GB RAM (128 MB video card)

Q:

Can I upgrade from Spectra Professional to Spectra SQL?
A: Yes, you can. Spectra SQL is a $700 upgrade from Spectra Professional.

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:

Will my OnLocation and DataSafe still work with SQL?
A: Yes, both OnLocation and DataSafe will continue to function with Spectra SQL. There will be a little difference in how you manage your OnLocation check outs. Because a SQL database is typically larger than an Access database, your DataSafe rates may change, but the security of DataSafe will still work with SQL.

Q:

How long will my studio be down to convert to SQL?
A: Most of the time we can set up the conversion to take place overnight, minimizing the down time for your studio. 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.


See also
Spectra Database Utility
myStratus Database Utility
Internet Update Utility - Spectra 2014 or older
Maintaining your Spectra Database
Database Backup Best Practices
Updates and Upgrades
FAQ - myStratus Firewall


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