Considering installing Windows 7? Or, thinking about buying a new computer Or, adding a MU and eRx module? Here's what you need to know about PCArchiver.

First, understand the effect of '32-bit' versus '64-bit:'

• The program you may now have, PCArchiver10 with Scan9 or Scan10, was designed for 32-bit Windows computers.

• Many software programs, possibly including your practice management software, function only on 32-bit Windows computers.

• Windows 7 upgrades to existing XP and Vista computers come in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions. You may purchase the Windows 7 retail upgrade package, which includes both a 32-bit and a 64-bit option.  Install the 32-bit version, and your PCArchiver10 will continue to work as normal.  (To verify that your existing computer can accept Windows 7, go to the ‘Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor’). These options are best discussed with your IT consultant.

• New computers with Windows 7 are sold with ONLY the 64-bit version. Only XP and Vista have 32-bit versions of Windows. You can purchase a retail 32-bit option and install, but this needs to be discussed with your IT consultant.

• PCArchiver has developed a new version (PCArchiver12) which works in both 32-bit and 64-bit environments; we will also continue to fully support the existing 32-bit version (PCArchiver10). 

If you plan to keep PCArchiver10 and a 32-bit system, and are not planning to add a MU and eRx module, you're all set. You may disregard the rest of this email.

HOWEVER:

If you are considering a switch to Windows 7 64-bit (on either existing or new computers), or plan to add a Meaningful Use/eRx module, please read on!

Know your choices:

• If you are upgrading your existing computer:
  
  You must purchase purchase PCArchiver12 or upgrade to PCArchiver12 from PCArchiver10. See below for details.

• If you are purchasing a new computer:

First, check to see that your practice management programs, and other critical programs, will work in a 64-bit environment. All new computers sold by Dell, HP, and discount stores with Windows 7 come with only the 64-bit version preinstalled.

If the rest of your important programs WILL NOT function under the Windows 7 64-bit operating system, and you want to continue to use those programs, purchase a new computer with Windows XP 32-bit preinstalled. You may have to pay an upgrade fee to the dealer. This is the only option that allows you to purchase a new computer and continue to use all your 32-bit Windows programs, including PCArchiver10 with Scan9 or Scan10.

If the rest of your important programs WILL function under the Windows 7 64-bit operating system, and you decide to buy a 64-bit computer, present users of PCArchiver10 may purchase PCArchiver12 at a discount.  PCArchiver12 and Scan12 are specifically designed to work in a 64-bit environment, but work with 32-bit as well. These are completely new programs, not just upgrades of what you have now.  They will give you compatibility going forward, although (due to a Microsoft wrinkle) they do require you to convert your existing database to the new format.  This conversion is straight forward with complete instructions in the PCArchiver12 User Manual.

• If you plan to add a Meaningful Use and ePrescribing module and are using PCA10:

Good as PCA10 is for scanning and archiving patient records, PCA12 has new features that make it easier to use for active charts, including creation of internal partitions, optical character recognition, and faster ways to append pages. If you are going to write notes and append them daily so that you will be eligible for Federal funds and avoid penalties, it is best to upgrade.

Prices: Present SOLO users: $499 (New users: $1,299).
( See Price & Purchase for other user size versions).

To see new features of PCArchiver12 and Scan12, click HERE.

Free trial of PCArchiver12 and Scan12, click HERE.

Further questions? Contact the PCArchiver Support Desk!
We will be glad to help.