1.1. NexusDB error: The operation could not be completed in the alloted time.

Q:  I just updated EstiMate to the latest 2.2.1.19 build, and I'm getting an error after clicking on the "Open" list.  The error says:

"NexusDB: <unnamed TnxQuery instance>: Query execution failed:"

"NexusDB: The operation could not be completed in the allotted time:

How can I resolve this?


A:  Starting with the 2.2.1.19 build of EstiMate a user defined option was included in the System Settings to allow the user to manually adjust the time in seconds for a database operation to complete before the error message appears.


There are a couple of reasons a user might encounter this error. 

1.  The database is very large, and the time required to join the database tables, and display the results exceeds the currently allotted time.

2.  Network issues are delaying the retrieval of the data.


To correct this issue the user can adjust the "Query Timeout" setting in the System Setting to a higher value (in seconds).

1.  Click "Configure and Manage" > "System Settings" (If you're connected to the Multi-User Server you'll first need to have everyone close out of their copy of EstiMate, and then switch to "Single User Mode" by clicking the "blue" EstiMate icon in the upper left and selecting "Switch To Single User Mode").

2.  In the System Settings click the "Advanced" button.

3.  Under "Query Timeout (seconds)" use the up/down buttons to adjust the number of seconds, or just type in the number.

4.  Start with "30" seconds, and click the "OK" button  If you still get the error move it to "60", "90", and so fourth until the operation completes w/o error.  You only need to update this setting from one of your copies of EstiMate, and it will apply to all of them on your network.


Once you're able to get the Open list or the Archives to open you shouldn't have any further issues opening either until you restart EstiMate because once it's open EstiMate caches most of that data to allow for quicker retrieval the next time (it should open in half the time or quicker).

1.2. EstiMate Multi-User Server (build 2.2.1.4) locking up, and causing EstiMate to crash.

Q:  I'm running the latest build of EstiMate, and the Multi-User Server (build 2.2.1.4).  Periodically throughout the day they will both lock up.  In order to use EstiMate again I must first crash, and then restart both applications.  Is there a fix for this issue?

 

A:  We are aware of, and looking for a solution to this issue.  This issue seems to have originated from the 2.2.1.3 update for EstiMate, and the Multi-User Server.  In that particular build there was an issue where EstiMate would not connect to the Multi-User Server from any computer on the network other then the one running the Multi-User Server.  We corrected that issue with the 2.2.1.4 update shortly after we realized it.  We were then made aware that some users with 4 or more copies of EstiMate connecting to the Multi-User Server were encountering issue with EstiMate locking up.

 

We released a test build (2.2.1.6) to try and fix the latest issue.  We believed at the time that it was a client side (i.e. EstiMate)  issue, and tried to handle it as such.  Unfortunately this did not fix the issue.  We are currently unsure of the exact cause of the issue, other then we now believe it to be the Multi-User Server which is locking up causing EstiMate to become non responsive.

 

Again we are working toward a solution to this issue, and we apologize for any inconvenience it has caused.  The only workaround to this issue currently is to "downgrade" the Multi-User Server, and all of your copies of EstiMate to an earlier version (before 2.2.1.3).

 

At the bottom of this article you will find both the Multi-User Server, and EstiMate 2.2.0.10 for download.

 

Before you download and install anything please be sure to backup your EstiMate Data.

How to backup your EstiMate Data:  http://www.estimatesoftware.com/support/index.php?pg=kb.page&id=617

 

To begin:

1.  Close all copies of EstiMate, and exit out of the Multi-User Server.

2.  From the computer/server running the Multi-User Server download and install the 2.2.0.10 build from this page.

3.  When it's finished installing let it launch, or start it manually from the Desktop icon or Start Menu icon.

4.  Next move to one of your EstiMate computers and download and install the 2.2.0.10 build of EstiMate from this page.

5.  When it's finished you can let it launch or just leave it closed.

6.  Repeat the above 2 steps until all of your copies of EstiMate have been "downgraded" (NOTE:  Do not run mixed versions/builds of EstiMate as this can cause further issues).

 

You should now have everything back up and running, and the issue should be resolved.  Please check back to this page (or bookmark it) periodically for updated workarounds, or to make sure the next build of EstiMate fixes the issue (before you update), or for intermediate build releases that correct this issue.

 

EstiMate Multi-User Server (build 2.2.0.10):  ftp://ftp.estimatesoftware.com/eServerSetup.exe

EstiMate 2 (build 2.2.0.10):  ftp://ftp.estimatesoftware.com/eSetup.exe

 

Username:  xestimatesoftware1-public

Password:   public123

 

 

1.3. I've udated to the latest build (2.2.1.3), and now I can't connect to the Multi-User Server from some of my copies of EstiMate 2

Sorry for the inconvenience.  We are now aware of the networking issue in the latest update of EstiMate 2 (2.2.1.3), and are working to fix this.

 

 

Here is the workaround for the latest build of EstiMate (2.2.1.3) not connecting to the Multi-User Server.  We can see from our end that there is some sort of issue preventing customers from connecting to the EstiMate Multi-User Server after they update all of their EstiMate software components to the latest build.  We apologize for the inconvenience, and we will try to get this issue resolved as quickly as possible.

 

To bypass this issue:  (Make sure the EstiMate Multi-User Server is running before you begin).

 

1.  Open EstiMate, and click "OK" when you receive the message "Could not connect to network server..."

 

2.  Next click the "Connect To Local Folder" button on the connection toolbar

 

3.  A "Select Folder For Database" window will pop up, and the folder called "Data" should already be highlighted - Just click the "OK" button at the bottom of that window.

 

4.  You will get a message stating "You are attempting to connect to a local folder, but you were previously connected to an EstiMateMulti-User Server".  Just click "OK" on this message.

 

5.  It could take up to 20 seconds for EstiMate to connect to this local folder.

 

6.  Once EstiMate opens up into this local database it might also appear to be "hung up", but just give it a few second after you click on any of the buttons, and it will respond.

 

7.  Click on the "blue" EstiMate icon in the upper left, and select "Close Database".  This will close the local database, and put you back on the connection toolbar.

 

8.  Now click the "Connect To Selected Server" button, and you should get a login prompt (almost immediately).  Once you've logged in,EstiMate should open into Multi-User Mode, and everything should work as expected.  

 

If you close out of EstiMate you will (most likely) have to repeat these steps to get reconnected (at least until we are able to resolve the issue, and upload a new build/patch).

 

Repeat the above steps for any other copies of EstiMate you need to use.  If you have a copy of EstiMate on the same computer as the Multi-User Server you shouldn't need to do anything with that copy - it should just open up since the server is "local" to that copy of EstiMate.  If you are still having issues after following the steps above please let us know (reply to this email).

 

Again we apologize for the inconvenience, and will work to resolve this issue as quickly as possible.

1.4. Intermediate Builds of EstiMate

Current Intermediate Build: 2.2.1.15

In the interest of customer service we wish to provide customers access to incremental builds of the software.

1.5. Vehicle Wrap items not showing up in the lists.

Q:  I just did an update of the software and now the Vehicle Wrap items (vehicles, prep solution, adhesive) are not showing up in the list. 

 

A:  We are aware of this issue, and are working to fix it for the next build of the software.  In the meantime we do have a solution to fix the issue immediately.  Attached to this article is the database file for all of the Vehicle Wraps items.  If you have a single EstiMate station you will want to save this file to that computer.  If you have more then one EstiMate station and use the Multi-User Server you will want to save this file to the computer that the Multi-User Server is installed on.

 

1.  Save the file attached to this article to the desktop of the computer that is running EstiMate (if you only have the one station), or the computer running the Multi-User Server (if you have 2 or more copies of EstiMate networked together by the Multi-User Server).

2.  Close any open copies of EstiMate, and stop the Multi-User Server.

3.  Right click on the zip file (Custom.zip), and select "Extract All".

4.  When the "Extraction Wizard" comes up click the "Next" button.

5.  On the next screen it asks where you would like to extract the file.  There is a hidden folder in the path to the EstiMate Data folder so you will not be able to browse there (unless you have "Show hidden files" turned on). 

Instead you can copy this path  C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\EstiMate\Data  and past it into that field.  (This is if you only have one copy of EstiMate).

If you are using the Multi-User Server then you will want to copy this path and paste it into the field in the Extraction Wizard:

C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\EstiMate\Multi-User Data

If your data folder is located somewhere other then one of these default locations you will need to know where that is and either browse to that location or enter the path to it into the filed in the Extraction Wizard.

6.  Click the "Next" button.

7.  You will get two prompts - 1 telling you the file already exists - just click "Yes" to replace it, and second telling you it's a Read Only file - just click "Yes" there too.

8.  Back on the Extraction Wizard window uncheck the "Show extracted files" check-box, and click the "Finish" button.

9.  Start the Multi-User Server again, and then open EstiMate.  All of the vehicles, prep solutions, and adhesives should now be in their respective lists, and available for you to select from in the Vehicle Wraps plugin.

1.6. TEMboHardNumbers Error

Q:  When I try to open a few select jobs and estimates I get and error message that reads:  "Invalid object class TchpboSalesTax in attribute TInstantPart('HardNumbers').  Required class TEMboHardNumbers".  How can I fix this issue?

 

A:  This issue has been fixed in the current version of EstiMate.  Please download the latest version of EstiMate (and the Multi-User Server if applicable) from here:

 

EstiMate Update Page

 

To fix the "TEMboHardNumbers Error":

 

After you've updated the Multi-User Server (if you use this part of the software), and all of your EstiMate stations you can go ahead and open EstiMate on one of your computers.

 

The first thing you will want to do in EstiMate is to make a backup.  To do this click on the "Configure And Manage" tab, followed by the "Backup/Restore Data Files" button.  On the next window click the "Backup" button.  In the "Save As" dialog window choose somewhere to save the backup, and at the bottom be sure and give it a filename (e.g. EstiMateBackup12-10-08), and click "Save".  (NOTE: Please do not proceed until you've made a backup).
 

Once you've made a backup you can begin repairing the issue with the EstiMate Health Check utility.

• 
  The first thing you will need to do is to go into Single User Mode.  Click the "blue" EstiMate icon in the upper left, and select "Switch To Single User Mode" (you only need to do this if you use the EstiMate Multi-User Server, otherwise just skip to the next step).
• To start the EstiMate Health Check hold the "Shift" key on your keyboard down, and again click the "blue" EstiMate icon in the upper left.
• Select "EstiMate Health Check" from the menu.
• When the EstiMate Health Check screen appears click on the "TEMboHardNumbers Error" tab.
• Click the "Click Here To Preform This Repair" button.
• EstiMate will go through and fix any jobs/estimate affected by this error.
• Make note of the jobs/estimates that have been repaired, so that you can check them later.
• Click the "OK" button to close the EstiMate Health Check window. 

The issue should now be resolved.  You can connect the rest of your EstiMate stations, and continue working.

 

 

1.7. The "Bill To" filed is missing some of the customers information on my jobs and estimates. How do I get that information to show up?

Q:  After I selected a customer for a job I noticed that the contact person was missing from the "Bill To" filed.  On another job the address was missing from that same field.  How do I get that information to show up?

 

A:  This seems to only affect jobs and estimates that were imported from EstiMate version 1.  For some reason EstiMate is not pulling all of the information available in that customers record into the "Bill To" field.  We do intend to fix this, but in the meantime here is the workaround.

 

When you open a job or estimate that was created in EstiMate version 1, and you notice that the contact person or address is missing from the "Bill To" field:

• Click the icon with the 3 dots [...] located to the right of the Customer drop down list.

• The record for that particular customer will come up.  When it does all of the missing information will immediately fill into the "Bill To" filed.

• Close the customers record, and you should never have to do that again for THAT customer - their information should always be complete.
  

1.8. When I click on Screen Printed Garments I get an Access Violation. How can I fix this?

Q:  When I select the Screen Printed Garments plugin from Quick Quote or from Add Item on the job or estimate screen I get an Access Violation.  Is there any way to fix this.

 

A:  We noticed this issue after our last build/update.  We are not sure what caused this to happen, and Screen Printed Garments is the only plugin that is affected. 

This issue has been resolved.  Visit our updates page to download the latest version of EstiMate.

1.9. Line item Description is not "sticking" - It keeps reverting back to the "Auto" description.

Q:  I usually enter my own descriptions into the "Description" field of a plugin, but lately when I go back in to edit that line item the description has changed back to the original/default, and the "Auto" box is again checked.  How do I keep it from changing?

 

A:  We recently made some changes to that area of EstiMate because it was causing some confusion the way it was.  It's less confusing now, but unfortunately now it's not working correctly.  We are aware of this issue and we hope to have this fixed just as soon as possible. 

You can still un-check the "Auto" box, and add your own description, but if you then have to go back into that line item/plugin from the job or estimate screen it will change your description back to the default and the "Auto" box will again be checked. 

Another thing you can do is to enter the description directly into the "Description" filed of a line item on the job or estimate screen.  Doing this will automatically un-check the "Auto" box in the plugin and fill in with your description.  You will then be able to go into that line itme/plugin and the description will stay the same, BUT ONLY THAT ONE TIME.  If you click OK, but then have to go back in to that line item again the description will default back to "Auto". 

 

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, and we hope to have this issue corrected very soon. 

1.10. My "Copy and Colors" keep disappearing from my jobs. How can I stop this from happening?

Q:  I've typed the information for my job into the "Copy and Colors" section of the plugin, but it keeps disappearing every time I move one of the sliders on the right.  How can I keep it from doing that?

 

A:  This unfortunately is just a "bug" in the software.  We are aware of this issue and hope to have it corrected soon.

 

The work around for the time being is simply to make any adjustments needed to the "Subjective Sliders" (i.e. Artwork Complexity, General Difficulty Level, Market Level, etc.) before you type in your "Copy and Colors". 

 

We apologize for the inconvenience. 

1.11. Line Item Group not showing the correct tax.

Q:  I've just done a quote using a Line Item Group, and the tax is not showing correctly on the print out of the estimate.  The correct tax amount is shown on the estimate screen, and the correct total amount shows on the print out, but the tax on the print out is not correct.

 

A:  We are aware of this issue and we are working to fix it.  The issue is that when the print out is generated it's only calculating tax for a quantity of 1 for that Line Item Group.  If your quantity is more then 1 it still calculates/shows the correct total on the print out, but the tax amount only reflects a quantity of 1.

 

The only work around for this right now is to:

• Use only a quantity of 1 for the group (the quantities for the items in the group will not effect anything mentioned in this article).

• If you need the group to have a quantity of more then 1 you can first just do one, and then on the job/estimate screen you can copy that Line Item Group as many times as you need to reach the quantity you need.  (This obviously won't look as condensed on the printout as it would if you could just increase the quantity of the one group, but it will print the tax amount correctly on the quote).

1.12. EstiMate database files all over the desktop.

 

Q:  When I created my new EstiMate database the files went all over my desktop.  Why did this happen and how do I get them into the correct folder?

A:  By default EstiMate should create your default database in C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\EstiMate\Data.  There are two possibilities why this might have happened.  The first is that EstiMate might not have been able to access the correct folder due to your Windows settings.  The second reason is if you clicked the "Create New Database" button in EstiMate, but didn't select a folder for the database to go in to (it defaults to the desktop).

 

To fix this issue:

 

If you have been working with it like that (with the database files on the desktop) then you will want to group those files up so that you can put them in the correct location, and so you don't lose any of your work. 

NOTE:  If you've not done any work in EstiMate yet, you can just get connected to the correct folder, and then delete the "*.nx1" files from your desktop.  Read #1, and # 3 - 5 at the bottom of this article to lean how to open the "Data" folder at the correct/default location.

• Create a new folder on your desktop and give it a name (e.g. Data).

• There are 46 ".nx1" files and 1 ".cfg" file called "nxtrans.cfg". 

• Drag and drop these files into the new folder you've just created.

• You can then move that folder to a better location on your hard drive.  Any location is fine but the best place is the default location.

• To open the default location click on your Windows "Start" button, and then click "Run".

• When the run window comes up type in (or copy and paste) this location into the "Open" field.

C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\EstiMate

• A new window for the EstiMate folder will open up.  If there is already a folder in there call Data, right click on that folder and rename it "Data2" w/o the quotes.

• Drag the folder called "Data" from you desktop into this window, and drop it in any empty spot (not on top of any other folder).

 

To open the database folder in EstiMate:

1. Open EstiMate.
2. It most likely won't be able to connect to anything because the database has moved.  Just click OK on any errors messages you might receive.
3. Click on the "Connect to Local Folder" button
4. A "Select folder for Database" window will come up.  It should already have the "Data" folder (under the "EstiMate" folder) selected.  If so just go ahead and click the "OK" button at the bottom of this window. 
5. EstiMate should now be connected to that folder, and you should now be in the program.
   

 

1.13. What is the ID column in the Open list for, and how do I get rid of it?

Q:  What is the ID column in the Open list for, and how do I get rid of it?

 

A:  This is how EstiMate tracks your jobs and estimates.  It was accidental left on in the last build of the software, and will be removed from the "Open" list in the next build of the software (2.1).

 

You can't remove it from the "Open" list yourself, but to avoid confusion you can move it out of your way.

• Click on the "ID" header, and while holding the mouse button drag it to the right to the end of all the other headers.  

• You can then grab the left edge of that header and pull it to the right until it's as small as it will go.
  

1.14. EstiMate prints blank pages from the Brother HL 2140 Laser printer.

Q:  When trying to print a quote, invoice, report, or anything to my Brother HL 2140 Laser printer all I get is blank pages.  Is there something I need to set up in EstiMate to get it printed?

 

A:  We are aware of this issue, but unsure of what's causing this to happen.  EstiMate uses the default Windows printer, so there are no additional setting to correct this issue.  We can't guarantee when or if a fix will be available for this issue.  If you currently own this printer then you will need to either use the Print to File option in EstiMate, or print to a different printer (possibly a network printer).

 

To print to a file:

• From the Invoice, Estimate, Work Order, or any other report screen select "Print".

• If you get a preview screen of the report click the printer icon in the upper left corner.

• On the last "Print" screen tick the check-box next to "Print to File".

• Click the drop-down box and select the type of file you want to save the invoice or other report as - PDF is usually the best choice.

• Type a location for the file, or click the [...] box at the end of the "Where" field, select the location for the file, and give it a file name, and click Save.

• Click the OK button to save the file.

• You can now open that file and print it out. 

If we are able to find a solution to this issue we will post it here.  We apologize for the inconvenience.

1.15. Can't e-mail out of EstiMate using Microsoft Office Outlook 2007.

Q:  I'm trying to e-mail a quote out of EstiMate 2, but when I click the Email button nothing happens.  I'm using Microsoft Office Outlook 2007.  How do I get it to e-mail my quote?

 

A:  We are aware of this, and EstiMate 2 seems to work with all other version of Outlook, but for some reason EstiMate can't launch a new mail message in Office Outlook 2007.  We are looking for a solution to this issue, but in the meantime you can use the "Print to File" option in EstiMate to create a PDF of your quote which you can manually attach to your e-mail message.  Also make sure your Outlook and EstiMate software are up to date, and also refer to this Knowledge Base article to make sure everything else is set up correctly ("I Can't e-mail a quote out of EstiMate"):  http://www.pricingmadeeasy.com/estimate/support/helpspot/index.php?pg=kb.page&id=59

 

To print to a file:

• From the Invoice, Estimate, Work Order, or any other report screen select "Print".

• If you get a preview screen of the report click the printer icon in the upper left corner.

• On the last "Print" screen tick the check-box next to "Print to File".

• Click the drop-down box and select the type of file you want to save the invoice or other report as - PDF is usually the best choice.

• Type a location for the file, or click the [...] box at the end of the "Where" field, select the location for the file, and give it a file name, and click Save.

• Click the OK button to save the file.

• You can now open that file and print it out. 

If we are able to find a solution to this issue we will post it here.  We apologize for the inconvenience.

 

UPDATE:  It's possible that EstiMate isn't recognizing MS Office Outlook 2007 if it was installed before EstiMate.  If this is the case (you installed MS Office Outlook 2007 before you installed your copies of EstiMate 2) then reinstalling Outlook 2007 should correct the issue.

If you have the MS Office 2007 CD you can reinstall just that portion (Outlook) of the software.  Once you've done that restart EstiMate, and try to e-mail a quote.  You should now get a new Outlook email message with your quote attached as a PDF.

 

1.16. Changing Screen Modes in Windows Vista causes EstiMate to crash.

Q:  I am using Windows Vista, and whenever I open Adobe Illustrator it switches Vista's screen mode from Aero to Windows Basic.  If I have EstiMate open when it changes screen modes it causes it to crash.

 

A:  We are aware of this issue, and we will try to find a solution.  What actually happens is that when the screen mode changes it causes EstiMate to "redraw" the Connect toolbar over top of the main EstiMate toolbars.  You then think you've been logged out, but when you try to connect to your database again it tells you you're already connected.

 

If you happen to have anything open in EstiMate when the "switch" takes place try to save your work immediately if you can, and close EstiMate.  If you try to access anything (else) you will get an error message; "Invalid connector for object".

 

This issue will only occur if you have EstiMate open when switching screen modes in Vista.  The solution is to try and save your work if possible, and restart EstiMate.  That will correct the issue unless you switch screen modes again while EstiMate is still open.  If you close Adobe Illustrator it will switch back to Aero automatically if that's what you originally had set.

 

UPDATE:  The best way to resolve this issue is to just set your Vista Desktop to "Windows Vista Basic", and leave it at that.  Adobe Illustrator is one application that can't run with the "Aero" screen mode enabled, LogMeIn (remote desktop software) is another.  Setting you desktop to "Windows Vista Basic" will prevent these applications from changing the screen mode for you and causing issues with EstiMate 2.

To change your screen mode in Vista from "Aero" to "Windows Vista Basic":

• Right click on any empty space on your desktop

• Select "Personalize" from the context menu

• Under Personalize appearance and sounds click on the "Window Color and Appearance" link

• On the Window Color and Appearance screen click the link at the bottom of the page that says: "Open classic appearance properties for more color options"

• When the Appearance Settings window pops up change the Color scheme from "Windows Aero" to "Windows Vista Basic"

• Click the "Apply" and "OK" buttons
  

 

The main thing you will notice with this change is that you windows are no longer transparent, and the task bar preview of windows no longer show.  Other then that there is not much noticeable change, your Windows Side Bar will still work, and everything else will work as expected. 

1.17. Error: "QuickBooks cannot be accessed at this time".

Q:  I'm getting an error message when I try to export my jobs and estimates to QuickBooks.  The error message appears right at the point EstiMate starts to export the transactions.  The error message reads "QuickBooks cannot be accessed at this time.  Another application is interacting with QuickBooks and both cannot run simultaneously".

 

A:  We are aware of the issue, and we apologize for the inconvenience.  This issue was just recently brought to our attention, and only seems affects QuickBooks 2006 - if you are using a version other then 2006 you should not encounter this issue.  This issue occurred after customer using QuickBooks 2006 updated there copies of EstiMate to build # 2.2.  There was one change made to the EstiMate QuickBooks Link in this latest update, and that was to fix it's digital certificate to correctly identify itself to QuickBooks as "EstiMate Software" instead of "Unknown Application".  We are looking into this matter, and will update this page as soon as we have a fix available.

 

If you are experiencing this issue as of 10/15/08 you do not need to report it to us just check back on this page shortly (you're still always welcome to call or e-mail us though if you have questions or issues).  We will post the fix and directions here as soon as they're available.  Thank you for your patience. 

 

Update:

 

Here is the fix for the QuickBooks Link:

• Close EstiMate.
  

• Download the zip file (QBLink.zip) attached to this help file.

• Save it to your Desktop, or somewhere easy to find it again on the computer that has both QuickBooks and EstiMate installed.
  

• Right click on the zip file, and select "Extract All".

• When the "Extraction Wizard" comes up click the "Next" button.

• On the next screen below where it says "Select Folder To Extract Files To" click the "Browse" button.

• When the "Select A Destination" window comes up browse to "C:\Program Files\EstiMate 2\Plugins".

• Make sure you've clicked on the "Plugins" folder and then click "OK".

• Click the "Next" button again on the Extraction Wizard screen.

• When it tells you that the file already exists click the "Yes" button to replace the current file with this new on.

• Once it's completed you can click the "Finish" button.  You can also uncheck the "Show Extracted Files" check box before clicking "Finish" so it doesn't open up the Plugins folder.

• Open EstiMate and you should now be able to Export your jobs and estimates to QuickBooks.
  

1.18. Plugin windows are so large that the buttons don't show up on the screen.

Q:  When I open a plugin like Vinyl or Wide Format the plugin screen is so large that the OK, Cancel, Configure, and Templates buttons don't show up on the screen.  I tried adjusting my resolution, but that didn't help.  How can I fix this issue?

 

A:  This is usually an issue when using EstiMate on Windows Vista.  The problem is not with the screen resolution, but with the font size.  Vista has to default font sizes - 96 DPI (Normal), and 120 DPI (Large), and when it's set to the larger 120 DPI it causes the buttons in the plugins to be pushed out of alignment to the far right.  They are still there, but due to the increased font size the are pushed off the screen.  You can "grab" the title bar with your cursor and move it to the left a bit to see the buttons until you can change your font size.

 

To change your DPI Scaling in Vista:

1. Right click on your Desktop, and select "Personalize".
2. The Personalization window will come up.  On the left hand side click the "Adjust font size (DPI)" link.
3. When the UAC (User Account Control) window pops up click "Continue".
4. When the DPI Scaling window comes up click the radio button next to "Default scale (96 DPI) - fit more information", and then click the OK button.
5. You will need to restart your computer for the changes to take effect.  When the window pops up telling you this just click the "Restart Now" button, (unless you need to save or close some application then you can click "Restart Later", and then restart your computer when you're ready).

 

1.19. Cannot create file "C:\WNDOWS\system32\RBuilder.ini. Access is denied

Q:  When I try to preview anything in EstiMate before I print it I get an error that says "Cannot create file "C:\WINDOWS\system32\RBuilder.ini". Access is denied".  I can however print the reports, invoice, work orders, etc., I just can't preview them.  How can I fix this?

 

A:  This is a permission issue in Windows.  This error will sometimes occure if the current user of the system is not logged into Windows as the Admin.  You can however just give full permission to this one file, and they will then be able to preview the reports in EstiMate.

 

To give full permissions to the "RBuilder.ini" file:

• Log out of the Limited User account and log into this computer as the Administrator (or an account with administrative privileges).
  

• Right click on your Windows Start button, and select Explore.

• On the left side of Windows Explorer click the "+" sign next to Local Disk (C:) > WINDOWS > system32

• Once you're in the "system32" folder look for the file named "RBuilder.ini" (if you have file extension turned off it will just be RBuilder).

• When you find the "RBuilder" file right click on it and select "Properties".

• In the properties window click on the "Security" tab

• Under the first section "Group or user names:" click on "Users (ComputerName\Users)"

• In the section below that "Permissions for Users" place a check-mark in the "Allow" box next to "Full Control".  All of the boxes below "Full Control" will also be checked.  The user now has full permission to access this file (and only that file).

• Click the "Apply" and "OK" button to save the changes.

• Log out of the Windows Admin account, and back into the Limited Users account.  Open EstiMate and try to preview a report, invoice, work order, etc., and it should work as expected (no error messages).

 

Note:  If you don't see the "Security" Tab on the properties window for the "RBuilder" file then you probably have "Simple File Sharing" turned on.  To turn off Simple File Sharing click on "Tools" > "Folder Options" from the text menu at the top of Windows Explorer or the Systems32 window/folder.  On the "Folder Options" window click on the "View" tab.  Under the "Advanced Settings" section scroll all the way to the bottom and uncheck the box that says "Use simple file sharing (Recommended)".  Now right click on the "RBuilder" file again, select "Properties", and you will see the "Security" tab.

2.1. What are the system requirements for running EstiMate 2?

Q:  What are the system requirements for running EstiMate 2?

 

A:  EstiMate is a PC based software, and therefore needs to be run under the Windows operating system.  Any version of Windows, XP or better is what is required.  If you are using a Mac you will need to install a virtualization software like Parallels, VMWare, or Virtual PC, and then a copy of Windows XP, or better on top of that.  You will then be able to install EstiMate onto the virtual Windows machine.

 

Here are the recommend hardware requirements for running EstiMate:

 

 

EstiMate is not very resource intensive, and any modern computer should run it without a problem.  However for optimal performance we recommend:

• 1 GHz 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor

• 512 MB of system memory

• 200 MB of available free hard drive space

• CD-ROM 

• Internet access 
  

If you are also going to run the EstiMate Multi-User Server then in addition to the above you should have:

• A small office or home network setup.

• Wired or Wireless connections from each computer to the network. 
  

If the computer you will be running the Multi-User Server on is a "server computer" then it should be able to handle the network load effectively.  However if it's one of your workstations then you may want to consider doubling the recommended system requirements from above (i.e 2 GHz processor, 1 GB of system memory).

 

2.2. Will EstiMate 2 run on Windows 7?

Q:  Will EstiMate 2 run on Windows 7?

 

A:  EstiMate 2 will run on Windows 7 using the new "Compatibility Agent".

 

To install EstiMate 2 on Windows 7:

 

1.  Download the setup files for EstiMate 2, and the EstiMate Multi-User Server (if you are licensed for multiple copies of EstiMate).

2.  Once the download is complete right click on the "eSetup.exe" icon and select "Troubleshoot Compatibility".

3.  Windows will detect, and correct any issues needed to complete the installation of EstiMate 2.

4.  The EstiMate 2 Installation Wizard will appear.  Follow the steps to finish installing EstiMate 2.

 

Thanks to Tim B. for providing us with this information regarding Windows 7, and EstiMate 2 compatibility.

2.3. Why are there so many places after the decimal point in the rate field?

We put 4 there because proper rounding is critical in accounting.  We found in the past that sometimes with only 2 places after the decimal, prices weren't properly rounded and therefore might not match figures brought into QuickBooks or over to other accounting programs.  Those fractions of a penny could cause audit issues, etc.  With EstiMate 2.0, we have eliminated that concern, by fine tuning the rate price to 4 places after the decimal.  It has been done intentionally. 

 

2.4. Where are .pdf files stored when emailing from version 2?

Q. In version 1, the .pdf files were stored in an "emails" folder under c:\program files\estimate.  Where are they in version 2?

A. In version 1, there was no way to generate .pdf files "on the fly" and it was actually a workaround (and a real hard drive clutter issue) to store them in your estimate folder.  In version 2, they are generated on the fly, and therefore are not actually stored on your hard drive but simply attached to the email as it is generated.

2.5. Why does my Custom Message appear twice on my printed estimates and invoices?

The reason the Custom Message appears twice on your printed jobs and estimates is because the "Name" of that message also prints out.

If you type "Thank You", as the "Name/Title" of your message, and then "Thank You" again in the body of the message you will get "Thank You" twice on your print outs.

If you simply want only one line of text to appear you can just type your message into the Name field, click the Add button and leave the message field blank. 

Otherwise you could do something like:

Name:           Thank you so much for your business.

Message:       If you have any questions about your order please don't hesitate to call us @ 1-888-304-3300. 

2.6. What versions of Windows is EstiMate compatible with?

Q:  What versions of Windows is EstiMate compatible with, and what are the minimum system requirements?

 

A:  EstiMate is only certified for use on Windows XP and Windows Vista.

It should also work on Windows Server 2003, and 2008, but normally only the Multi-User Server portion of EstiMate 2 is what gets installed on to the server computer.

EstiMate will not run on Windows 9x, NT, ME, or 2000. 

 

EstiMate is not very resource intensive, and any modern computer should run it without a problem.  However for optimal performance we recommend:

• 1 GHz 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor

• 512 MB of system memory

• 200 MB of available free hard drive space

• CD-ROM 

• Internet access
  

If you are also going to run the EstiMate Multi-User Server then in addition to the above you should have:

• A small office or home network setup.

• Wired or Wireless connections from each computer to the network.
  

If the computer you will be running the Multi-User Server on is a "server computer" then it should be able to handle the network load effectively.  However if it's one of your workstations then you may want to consider doubling the recommended system requirements from above (i.e 2 GHz processor, 1 GB of system memory).

2.7. Admin is already logged in from another machine.

Q:  I'm trying to connect EstiMate to the Multi-User Server, but every time I click the "Connect To Selected Server" button it says "Admin is already logged in from another machine".  I am licensed for more then one station, and I already have it running on another computer.  How can I get EstiMate to connect to the Multi-User Server from the other computers?

A:  The issue is that "Admin" is currently the only user in the database.  In order to log in from the other machines you must first create some additional users for the system.

To create additional users:

• Close EstiMate on all but one machine.

• Make sure that copy of EstiMate is in Multi-User Mode (it will show this in the title bar at the top of your EstiMate program).

• Click the "Configure And Manage" tab, and then the "Set Up Users" button.

• When the list comes up double click on the "Admin" account.

• Set a password for the "Admin", confirm that password, and then click "OK".

• From the Users List click the "Users" button at the bottom left, and select "New".

• A "New Entry" window will come up.  Type in a Username (Usernames, and passwords are case sensitive).

• Type in a password, and then confirm that password.

• Choose the "Permission Level" for that new user.  There are three choices (General User, Manager, and Admin).  Selecting each one will show you what that user would be restricted from doing at that level.  Admin has no restrictions.
  

• Click the "OK" button.

You can create as many users as you will need for the system.  Each user can only be logged in from one computer at a time though including the Admin.

2.8. I selected "Non Taxable" for a Labor item on my quote, but when I print it there is still a check mark under "Taxable" for that item.

Q:  I selected "Non Taxable" for a Labor item on my quote, but when I print it there is still a check mark under "Taxable" for that item.  How do I get the check mark to not show up?

 

A:  The reason for this is because EstiMate sees "Non Taxable" as a tax item.  EstiMate will calculate the tax correctly, adding nothing for that Labor item because its rate is 0.0%, but because there is a selection in that field it sees it as being taxable regardless of the %.

The way to properly make an item "Non Taxable" is to "blank" the tax field out in the plugin, or in the settings of that plugin.  If you never charge tax for Labor items then it would be best to do this in the plugin settings for Labor Items.

To charge no tax for an item:

• Click in the tax filed of the plugin (e.g. Labor Items), and highlight whatever is in there.

• Press the Backspace or Delete key to "blank" that field out.

• You can also do this directly from the Job or EstiMate screen the same way by clicking in the Tax field, highlighting, and deleting anything that's in that field next to the line item you don't want to charge tax on.
  

To do the above in the settings of a plugin so that tax is never charged by default:

• Open the plugin, and click the "Configure" button.
  

• Click in the Tax field, highlight anything that's there, and press Backspace or Delete.

• Click the "Save Settings" button 

If the customer is tax exempt and therefore not charged tax on any items then the way to apply that is to check the "No Tax" box on the Job or EstiMate screen.  This will make the tax for the entire job $0.00, and the tax line will be removed completely from the Totals section of the print out.

 

2.9. Moving the Market Level Sliders on the Configure screen for Screen Printed Garments causes EstiMate to crash.

Q:  I am trying to configure my Screen Printed Garments plugin, but every time I move the Market Level sliders the program freezes and then crashes.  How can I fix this so I can adjust the Market Level sliders for this plugin?  This is the only plugin that has this issue.

 

A:  The problem is there is no Default Press selected in the configuration screen of Screen Printed Garments.  EstiMate is trying to pull information from that field for the Market Level sliders to use, and when it doesn't find anything in the Default Press section it causes the program to crash. 

To fix this:

• Click Items > Plugin Items > Screen Printed Garments > Screen Printed Garment Presses.

• Next click "Screen Printed Garment Presses" down at the bottom left of the list and select "New".

• Enter the info for you new press.

Now that you have the new press created with the correct specifications:

• Click Quick Quote > Screen Printed Garments.

• When the plugin opens click "Configure" at the top right.

• On the configuration screen select your press as the Default Press.

• Now you should be able to move the Market Level sliders without a problem.

• When you are finished configuring this plugin click "Save Settings"

That's all there is to it.  You do not need to set a Default Garment or Ink if you don't want, but you must have a Default Press selected.

 

2.10. Colored text in EstiMate

Q:  Why is the text of some of my line items "blue"?

 

A:  Color was recently added to the text of some items like "System Items" or "Overridden" items to differentiate them from the other "regular" items in EstiMate.

 

There are currently only two set colors in EstiMate - Here is the key:

 
Maroon = Basic parts of EstiMate which cannot be deleted.  Some examples are "Completed" and "In Process" in the Job Status Flags list.  These two items cannot be deleted, but their "names" can be changed.  The Maroon color is intended to help you easily identify these items if you ever need to change them back.

 

Blue = Overridden.  When you see a line item on a job or estimate that is blue it means that the price for that item has been "Overridden", and will not change unless *you* change it.  For example if you imported you data from EstiMate version 1 all of the line items came into EstiMate 2 "Overridden".  This was done so that the new plugin settings in EstiMate 2 would not alter your original price.  If you were to uncheck the "Overridden/Override" box in that plugin the price would immediately change to reflect the current system settings. 

 

We hoped that by makeing these items different colors they would stand out, and that customers would exersise a bit of caution before making changes to these items.

2.11. Duplicate job and estimate numbers.

Q:  I just created a new job for a customer, and printed out the invoice.  I then opened that job again from the "Open" list, but  it's a completely different job with the same job number as mine.  What happened to my job?

 

A:  It's important to watch this especially in a networked environment.  EstiMate will allow duplicate numbers to be created by the user, but it will not create duplicate numbers on it's own under normal circumstances. 

One thing to be aware of is that when a new job or estimate is created EstiMate will assign it the next highest job/estimate number based on whatever the current highest number in the System Settings.  If two or more people click "New Job" or "New Estimate" right around the same time they will all have the same number.  It's not until one of those people click on the "Save" button or prints that job/estimate that that job/estimate number actually becomes theirs.

 

Recommended best practice. 

What is recommended to avoid confusion is to click the "Save" button immediately after selecting the customer.  This will prevent the job or estimate number from changing during the job if someone else saves that number first.  If the number does change after you click the "Save" button it just means that someone else already saved that number, but at least you'll know that the number currently showing is for your job/estimate and will remain so.

 

Changing job and estimate numbers manually from the job or estimate screens.

Even though you do have the ability to change job and estimate number manually it is not recommended unless you are sure that number hasn't already been used, and also that it won't be used in the future.  EstiMate will allow you to do this simply to give you more control over the system.  The numbers will continue to go in sequential order despite the fact that you might have already used a number.

For example if you current job number is 500, and you change it to 550 and save it the next job you open will be 500 because 500 was never saved.  If you continue to do jobs in order when you get to 550 EstiMate will NOT skip that number it will duplicate it.  One thing EstiMate will allow you to do though is to use other characters other then just numbers.  So.. you could create job number 550A, and that would help set it apart from number 550 when it comes up. 

 

Changing job and estimate number for the entire system through System Settings.

If you ever need to change the current starting number(s) in EstiMate you can do so by clicking on "Configure And Manage > System Settings > Advanced Settings".  If you are in Multi-User Mode you will first need to switch into Single User Mode by clicking the EstiMate icon in the upper left and selecting "Switch To Single User Mode".  

 

 

2.12. "The license file on the server is newer than the one on your local machine. Would you like to update your local license file?"

Q:  I'm getting a message when I open EstiMate that says "The license file on the server is newer than the one on your local machine.  Would you like to update your local license file?"  I always just say "No" to this message, but it keeps coming up.  Should I be saying "Yes"?

 

A:  This is not an error message, but you may see this from time to time.  This message could have a few meaning, but normally it appears if someone in the shop downloaded a new license file from their copy of EstiMate. 

 

Normally downloading a new license file is not necessary unless you have purchased new plugins, or if you were instructed to do so by EstiMate Technical Support.  In a multi-user environment the updated license file gets sent to the server, and then when the other copies of EstiMate connect to the EstiMate Multi-User Server they are informed by this message that there is a newer license file available.

In any of these cases it is fine to just click "Yes" to update your license file.  You will especially want to say "Yes" to this message if you know you have just recently purchased new plugins, so that the new options are available in your copy of EstiMate.

 

2.13. EstiMate is telling I need to be in "Single User Mode" to complete certain operations. How do I switch from Multi User Mode to Single User Mode?

Q:  I'm trying to get into the System Settings, but EstiMate keeps telling me I need to be in Single User Mode to access that section.  How do I switch to Single User Mode?

 

A:  You must be in Single User Mode to perform certain operations in EstiMate.  A few of these things include restoring a backup, deleting materials, deleting users, deleting customers, accessing the System Settings, and Importing you EstiMate 1.98 data.   

 

• To switch to Single User Mode, click the Blue EstiMate icon in the upper left of the program screen, and select "Switch To Single Mode".  After you have done this EstiMate will give you a message informing you that you are the only one that can use the database until you release the lock on it - just click the "OK" button.

• In order to switch to "Single User Mode" anyone else using EstiMate must first be logged out.  To log out they can either close EstiMate completely on their machine or they can click the Blue EstiMate icon in the upper left and select "Close Database".
  

• After you have finished making the necessary changes you can release the lock on the database by switching back into Multi-User Mode.  To do this click the EstiMate icon in the upper left again and select "Switch to Multi-User Mode".  If EstiMate needed to be restarted in order to apply changes then it will already be back in Multi-User Mode when it opens back up.

 

 

2.14. Forgotten Passwords

Q:  I've forgotten my password.  How can I find out what it is?

 

A:  There are a couple of places in EstiMate that a password is required.  The first place is during the registration process when you first install EstiMate 2 on your computer/s.  The very first time you register your software you will be asked to create a password (you will only be asked to create the password once and that 1 password is what you will use for all of your installs of EstiMate).  This password can be any combination of numbers and letters, and must be at least 1 character long (NO Blank Passwords), and not longer then 32 characters.  This password will be used to register any subsequent installs of EstiMate .  If you have forgotten you registration password blow are the steps to take to try and recover it.

 

To Recover your registration password.

• On the registration page where you enter your Serial Number is where you will also enter the password.  One thing to note when you're trying to remember your password is that the "Next" button won't light up until the password is correct.  Begin by trying some of your commonly used passwords and typing them into the password field while watching for the "Next" button to light up.

• If you are unable to remember your password then there is a "Forgot Password" link right next to the password field.  Click the link and a page to enter your e-mail address will appear.  Enter the e-mail address you registered your software with, and click the Retrieve Password button.  In a few minutes the password will be e-mailed to you at that e-mail address.

• If you are still unable to remember or retrieve your password you will need to e-mail or call EstiMate Customer Service and let them know you've forgotten your Registration Password.  They will then need to e-mail you a copy of your license file.  You'll save the attached license file to your desktop, and restart EstiMate.  This will bypass the registration process, and therefore you won't need to enter your registration password.

 

 

The second type of password in EstiMate 2 is the Login password.  You may not have a login password if you are only running EstiMate on one computer in Single User Mode.  The default account in EstiMate 2 is the "Admin".  If you don't set a password for the Admin then you should not get the login screen.  If you have set a password for the Admin then you will either log in with those credentials (i.e. Username: Admin + Password: *******), or if you've created any additional users (which you can only do after setting the Admin password) then you can log into one of those accounts with one of those usernames and password. 

 

To recover your login password (Admin).

• If the only account you have activated is the Admin then you will need to remember the password (HINT: the "Login" button will only light up if you've entered the password correctly *also be sure that you've typed the username correctly), otherwise you will need to have a backup of your data made from EstiMate 2, and which includes that password.  If you can't remember the password, but you do have a backup of your data then you can contact EstiMate Customer Service, for instruction on where to send the data.  NOTE: If you are beyond your trial period you will need to purchase a one time support incident for this service.

• If you have more then one user, and you have forgotten the password for one of those users you can always log in as the Admin (or any other account with admin privileges), and reset the password for that user (just type in the new password, confirm the password, and click OK).  You'll need to have at least one administrative account you can log into to reset any of the passwords - Managers and General Users cannot do it.

• If you are still unable to get into your database please contact EstiMate Customer Service for further assistance (please let them know you've forgotten your "Login" password, and if you have a backup of your data or not).

2.15. What are the differences between EstiMate Pro and EstiMate Enterprise?

Q:  I want to purchase EstiMate 2, but I'm wondering if I need EstiMate Pro or Enterprise.  What are the key differences between the two?

 

A: EstiMate Pro is great for the smaller shops as well as new shops, or shops that may already have scheduling/job management software, and accounting/invoicing software such as QuickBooks.

 

With EstiMate Pro you have the ability to:

• Create quotes (Estimates), as well as save, print, fax or e-mail them.

• Keep a list of all of your customers, vendors, and salespeople.

• Keep a list of all your materials and their prices.

• Print reports that allow you to see Customer History, Materials By Vendor, Open Estimates, and Transactions By Date. 

• With Pro you also have the option of adding the QuickBooks Link which will allow you to seamlessly transfer your estimates directly to QuickBooks, as Estimates, Invoices, or Sales Receipts. 
  

EstiMate Enterprise gives you the most flexibility for growth no matter what size shop you own.  EstiMate Enterprise is a great choice for larger shops, and especially for those that have used, or are using EstiMate 1, as they will certainly enjoy all of the new features.

With EstiMate Enterprise you have the ability to do everything above as well as:

• Create invoices (Jobs), from which you can print an Invoice, Work Order, Job Manifest, and Packing Slip.

• Print Estimate to Job Conversion, and Work In Progress Reports.

• Set up additional users with password protection, and user permissions.

• Network multiple copies of EstiMate 2 to the same database via the Multi-User Server add-on.

• Take a checked out copy of your shops database on your laptop into the field with you, and then merge your work back into the shops database when you return.
  

 

2.16. Why doesn't the Multi-User Server start automatically when Windows starts even though the option to do so is checked in the Multi-User Server Settings?

Q:  In the settings for the Multi-User Server I have the option to start automatically when Windows starts, but it's not working.  How can I fix this?

 

A:  The reason the Multi-User Server is not starting is because the registry entry that tells Windows were the executable file is doesn't' have quotes around it, and so Windows stops at the first "space" it sees and opens the EstiMate folder instead.

 

To fix this.

• Click you Windows Start button and select "Run".

• In the "Run" window type "regedit" (without the quotes), and press Enter or the OK button.

• When the registry editor opens, on the left hand side click "My Computer" > "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE" > "Software" > "Microsoft" > "Windows" > "Current Version" > "Run".

• Click directly on the "Run" folder, and then on the right hand side of the window double click on "EstiMate Server".

• In the "Edit String" window under "Value Data" put a quotation mark at the beginning and end of the path shown there so that it looks exactly like this:  "C:\Program Files\EstiMate Multi-User Server\MultiUserServer.exe"

• Close the registry editor, and the next time you start Windows the Multi-User Server should start up automatically.
  

2.17. What Plugins come with my software?

Q:  What plugins come with EstiMate by default?

 

A:  When you first order EstiMate you will have a 60 day trial period to try all of the plugins that we offer.  Once the trial period has ended you will have four plugins: Labor Items, Free Form, Line Item Group, and then one other plugin of your choice.

 

Here is the complete list of plugins:

• Vinyl & Painted Signs
• Window Graphics
• Ready-To-Apply (RTA) Graphics
• Thermal Digital Printing (Gerber Edge, Arizona, etc.)
• Wide Format Digital Printing
• Screen Printed Signs
• Screen Printed Garments
• Embroidered Items
• Dimensional Items
• Retail Items
• Labor Items (included with your base purchase)
• Free Form Items (included with your base purchase)
• Line Item Groups (included with your base purchase)

 

2.18. Do I need to uninstall my EstiMate 1 software before installing EstiMate 2?

Q:  I've just purchased EstiMate 2.  Do I need to uninstall my EstiMate 1 software before installing EstiMate 2?

 

A:  The answer is No.  EstiMate 2 is a completely new application, and will not interfere with EstiMate 1 at all (or vise versa).  You will also need EstiMate 1 installed if you wish to import all of your data from EstiMate 1 into EstiMate 2.  Once you've imported your data you may still want to keep EstiMate 1 installed as you may need to refer back to it while setting up your new software (NOTE: be aware though that you cannot have EstiMate 1 and 2 open at the same time).

 

After you have EstiMate 2 up and running, you may then want to consider uninstalling EstiMate 1 so that you or an employee don't inadvertently use it to quote a job (as that could get a bit confusing, and will most like cause you to have to retype the quote into EstiMate 2).  You may also just remove it to save space on your hard drive, but in either case we recommend that you make a backup from within EstiMate 1 before you remove it and/or any of it's folders. 

2.19. What is QuickQuote used for?

Q:  What is QuickQuote used for?

 

A:  Under QuickQuote you will see list of the pricing plugins you currently own, or if you are in your trial period then you will see the list of all the plugins that we currently offer.  During your trial period QuickQuote will allow you to try out each of the plugins without the need to create a new job or estimate just to do so.

The main purpose of QuickQuote (as the name and the icon indicate) is to give your customer or perspective customer a "Quick Quote" over the phone.  To begin you simply open the respective plugin based on what the customer has asked for, select the materials for the job, and then give them the quote/price without needing to get all of their personal information.  When you are finished just click the "Cancel" button at the bottom of the plugin screen, and nothing will be saved (Clicking OK will open a new estimate with that quote as your first line item). 

 

Another good use of QuickQuote is to configure each of your plugins without needing to open a new job or estimate.  Just select the plugin you want to configure, and when it opens click the Configure button at the top right. 

 

Some limitations of QuickQuote are that you can only give a quote using one of the pricing plugins at a time.  If the customer needs a quote for several items then it would be easier to open a new estimate and select <One Time Cash Customer>, so you can quote the entire job.  You also cannot save your QuickQuotes unless you turn them into an estimate.

 

 

2.20. Can't add new salesperson.

Q:  I'm trying to add a new salesperson, but every time I click OK I get a "blank" error message, and then a second error message that says "Access violation at address 20006E04 in module 'rtl100.bpl'. Read of address 00000000", and then the salesperson's name disappears from the "Name" filed.  What am I doing wrong?

 

A:  The issue here is that EstiMate is expecting you to type something into at least the "First Name" field.  EstiMate will actually fill in the "Name" field for you if you type the persons name into the "First Name" filed and click OK (if you also type in their "Last Name" it will add that to the "Name" field as well.  The rest of the information (category, address, etc. is optional).  

2.21. Why are "Completed" jobs showing up on the Work In Progress report?

Q:  I just opened a Work In Progress report, and it's showing "Completed" jobs.  How do I get the Completed ones to not show up on the report?

 

A:  There are two default statuses in EstiMate: "Completed", and "In Process".  These statuses are hard coded into the system, and can be distinguished in the "Job Status Flags" list by their maroon color .  Fixing this issue can be a bit tricky because you can change the names from "Completed" and "In Process" to something else (this is what actually causes the problem in the first place), but you can't delete either of them (and this is what can make fixing this issue kind of tricky/complicated).  The difficulty of fixing this issue also depends on how many statuses you have in your list.

 

To begin:

It is highly recommended you make a backup of your data in EstiMate before you begin this procedure, and that way if your statuses get messed up you can just restore the backup and start again.

 

If you only have the two default statuses then this won't be too hard because they are just backward.

 

• Click Items > Job Status Flags, and in the list double click one the "Completed" status.

• Change the "Name" to In Process2 (you need to add the 2 or something else just so it's different from the one already in the list - EstiMate doesn't allow duplicates).  Also change the "description" if necessary, and click the OK button.

• Double click on "In Process" (not In Process2 ;) ) and change it to Completed.  Again change the description if necessary, and then click OK.

• Double click on "In Process2" and remove the 2 from the "Name" and description, and click OK.

Now comes the last step:

• You'll need to go into your "Open" list and change the "Status" to the opposite of what it currently shows.  Jobs that show "Completed" are really "In Process" and vise versa.  NOTE:  You don't actually have to go into each job in the list to change the status you can just right click on each job and select "Tracking / Status", and then the correct status for that job.  It's also helpful if you sort your jobs by status and then make a note of where the status changes (what job #), so when you get there you know it's not one you've already changed, but on that needs to be changed now to something else. 

 

If you have more statuses then just the two default ones then this procedure can be a bit more tricky and you'll definitely want to make that backup now! 

You should be aware of a few things before you begin:

• If you have a status in your list named Completed that is not maroon colored then you should remove it because the Work In Progress Report shows EVERYTHING that is not the default (maroon) "Completed" status, and everything should really be a "still in some process" (e.g. Waiting for pickup) status.

• Deleting any of the non default statuses from the "Job Status Flags" list will also remove them from your Jobs (any job that had that status will then be blank).

• You'll probably want pen and paper handy to make some notes on what you're changing.

 

To fix this issue when you have more then the two default statuses:

• First find the two defaults (the maroon ones).  If one of them is Completed and Completed is showing up on your WIP Reports then you know that one should really be In Process.  Double click on Completed in the list and change it to In Process.

• If you have a Completed status in your list that's not one of the defaults then it WILL show up on your WIP Report and should be deleted.  One thing you can do before you delete it is print your WIP Report (and sort by status for easier printing of just those jobs) so you can see which jobs will need to be switched back to Completed later.

• You now need to figure out which of your two default (maroon) statuses is which (In Process, and Completed).  If you have at least one of them (or even just the name of one of them as the default it will be easier to figure out which is which).  If one is Completed and Completed is showing up on the WIP then use the steps at the beginning of this article to switch them around.

• If neither of them have the default names then you will need to just pick one to name Completed and then name the other In Process (NOTE:  If you do this be sure to write down what the name of the status you're changing an what you're changing it to, and again print the WIP to help when you're changing them back in the "Open" list).  If you want to have the statuses you just changed to Completed and In Process available to you still (to apply to those jobs again, and any future jobs) you will need to add them to the list again, just not as the defaults this time.

• Now preview a WIP report and see if Completed still shows up.  If so you need to go back to the beginning of this article and read the steps to switching those two around. 

Hopefully you've been keeping track of the statuses of each of your jobs while making these changes, and if so you should be able to go into the "Open" list and quickly/easily set the correct status back to each job, and hopefully you didn't have to make too many changes and therefore won't have much to fix.

 

 

2.22. Does EstiMate "Phone Home?"

Does EstiMate connect to the internet without me knowing?

Yes.  Each time you launch EstiMate it connects to our website to check if there is an updated version of the software available for download.  It transmits no personally identifiable information (no information at all, actually) to the website, and only downloads a single text file (an example is attached to this article).

If you are not connected to the internet, this fails silently.  If you are, and an update is found, you will see a message offering you the opportunity to download the update if you choose to.

2.23. Do I need to complete the Hourly Rate Wizard, or can I just enter my own rates somewhere?

Q:  Do I need to complete the Hourly Rate Wizard, or can I just enter my own rates somewhere?

 

A:  If you are a new EstiMate user, or especially if you've just started business the it will definitely behoove you to fill out the Hourly Rate Wizard, and let EstiMate suggest an hourly rate for you.  It will then apply this rate to both your hourly design and production rates. 

If you already use EstiMate then when you import your data into EstiMate 2 all of your hourly rates will automatically come over into the new software (NOTE:  If you filled in the Hourly Rate Wizard / Overhead Worksheet in EstiMate 1 that information (your expenses) will not come over, just the hourly rates you have set up).  If you've moved locations, hired more employees, bought new equipment, etc. it might be in your best interest to run the Hourly Rate Wizard again too at least to see what EstiMate 2 now thinks you should be charging per hour based on that new information.

 

To run the Hourly Rate Wizard:

• Click the Configure And Manage tab > Hourly Rate Wizard.

• Read the information on the Welcome screen, and click Next to go to the Overhead Worksheet.

 

Overhead Worksheet.

• On the Overhead Worksheet screen select whether you want to put your expenses in Weekly, Monthly, or Annual amounts.

• Fill in all the applicable fields.  Remember to account for circumstances that may not be monthly but will arise as expenses throughout the year. 

• Use any of the "OTHER" fields at the bottom right for categories we may not have supplied.  The word other can be edited so you can remind yourself what you meant by that category for future use.

• Make sure to click SAVE CHANGES at the bottom right whenever you update this.  The wizard will automatically prompt you that your hourly rate can be updated due to those changes.  If you're not ready to update your rates yet just click NO.  Click the Next button to proceed to the next tab "Work, Profit, and Taxes".

 

Work, Profit, and Taxes.

• Under "Work" enter the number of days you work in one week (In other words the number of days you are open in a week).

 

• Enter the number of weeks you work in one year, making sure to deduct for vacations and holidays when the shop may be closed.

• List your staff.  Include everyone who performs tasks that help produce your jobs.  (Remember to include both your design staff and your production staff.)  (TIP:  To be realistic, a good starting point is approx. 6 hours a day per full time employee.  This allows for other tasks that must be performed during a typical 8 hour work day.  Then, adjust as needed per employee if applicable.)

• Under "Profit" select a "Specific Amount", or a "Percentage".  You actually get to specify what you would ideally like to make in net profit!  Yes, it can be THIS simple!  Depending on what you just selected enter the dollar amount, and how often (weekly, monthly, or annually) you wan't to see this profit, or select the percentage you'd like to see as profit after taxes.
  

• Under "Taxes" you can enter a percentage that can be referred to as your 'tax bracket'.  Remember to include any and all taxes you are required to pay.
  

• Click the "Save Changes" button to save your current changes, and/or click the Next button to see your suggested hourly rate.

Summary.

• On this screen you will see a summary of your expenses, billable hours, taxes, and profits, and what EstiMate recommends you charge to meet these goals.

• Click Save Changes to save your information, and if your happy with this rate click the "Yes" button when EstiMate asks if you want that rate applied to your design and production hourly rates. 

If you just want to enter your rates without using the Hourly Rate Wizard:

• Click Items > Labor Rates.

• The two default labor rates in the system are Design and Production.  To change either of these double click on them, enter the new rate, select if the rate is per hour or per minute.  If it's a design rate put a check in the box that says "Is a design rate".  Click the OK button to save your changes.
  

• If you need to add additional labor rates click the "Labor Rates" button in the bottom left corner, and select New.

• Type in the "Name" for this labor Rate, enter the new rate, select if the rate is per hour or per minute.  If it's a design rate put a check in the box that says "Is a design rate".  Click the OK button to save and create your new rate.

 

 

 

2.24. What parts of a job or estimate will the Spell Checker check?

Q:  What parts of a job or estimate will the Spell Checker check?

 

A:  The Spell Checker is there to help you avoid embarrassing spelling mistakes on your quotes and invoices, but it's limited to the Description of your jobs and estimates, and the Line Item Descriptions.  It will not check your customer's name, billing or shipping address, or the terms.

 

To start the spell checker:

• Click the blue "Spell Check this Job/Estimate" link at the bottom left of the job or estimate.

NOTE:  If for some reason it doesn't check the "Line Item Descriptions" you can click in the Description column of your first line item, and then click the Spell Check link again and it will check all of your line item descriptions.

 

2.25. How can I see a break down of my expenses and profits for a job?

Q:  How can I see a break down of my expenses and profits for a job?

 

A:  You would do this by looking at the Hard Numbers for either the entire Job/Estimate, or for each individual line item.  You can even print them out.  The Hard Numbers provide you with a breakdown of where the quoted price was derived from.

 

To see the Hard Numbers for the individual items or the whole job/estimate:

• From the plugin window (i.e. Vinyl And Painted Signs, Wide Format Inkjet) click the blue "Total" link right above the total price field.

• From the job/estimate screen click the blue "Subtotal" link to the right of the job/estimate terms.

 

Here are the names, and definitions of each of the Expense and Profit categories you will see in the Hard Numbers window.  The breakdown is much like any traditional P&L (Profit and Loss) Analysis.  Expenses on the left Profits on the right.

• Material Costs:  This amount represents the total amount you paid for the materials you cited in your estimate.

• Material Markups:  This figure represents the amount you receive as direct profit from marking up your materials.

• Overhead Labor (Design):  This figure represents the large majority of the time you expect to spend designing this project.  It is listed under expenses because if you think back to your overhead worksheet, this is money that you are bringing in, but will go directly back to covering your overhead for the amount of time you spend designing this project.

• Overhead Labor + Profit Labor = the total amount you are billing this customer for labor

• EstiMate breaks it out so you see what percentage is there to cover your bills and what percentage is there for pure profit! 

• Overhead Labor (Production):  This figure represents the large majority of time you spent in production for this project.  It is listed under expenses because if you think back to your overhead worksheet, this is the money that you are bringing in, but will go directly back to covering your overhead for the amount of time you are producing this particular job.

• Overhead Labor + Profit Labor = the total amount you are billing this customer for labor.

• EstiMate breaks it out so you can see what percentage is there to cover your bills and what percentage is there for pure profit!

• Profit Labor (Design):  This figure represents the amount of labor being billed to cover your design profit.  Think back to the Work, Profit, and Taxes tab from the hourly rate wizard.  There you specified what amount of profit you wish to net over a particular amount of time.

• Profit Labor (Production):   This figure represents the amount of labor being billed to cover your production profit.  Think back to the Work, Profit, and Taxes tab from the hourly rate wizard.  There you specified what amount of profit you wish to net over a particular amount of time.

• Quantity & Job Discounting:  This figure represents any amount discounts given due to quantity.

• Market Level Adjustment:  This figure represents any increases due to your local market area.

• Shop Workload Adjustment:  This figure represents any adjustments due to your workload or rush factors.

• Overridden Price Adjustment:  This figure represents the amount by which you manually adjusted the price by overriding it.

• "Margin" Adjustment:   This figure represents the amount by which you adjusted the price based on the customer's attitude.
  

2.26. Can you copy line items from one job or estimate to another, and if so how?

Q:  I know you can make a copies of your line items on your job, but can you copy line items from one job or estimate to another, and if so how?

 

A:  Yes you can copy line items from one job/estimate to another.  In order to do this you will need to have both jobs/estimates open at the same time.

• Open the first job, and if it opens full screen click the "Restore Window" button (this is the button in between the Minimize (_) and Exit (X) buttons, and will be in the upper right corner just below EstiMate's Restore, and Exit buttons).

• Once it's restored (smaller) position it to one side of the screen.  (It will help if EstiMate is Maximized to its fullest)
  

• Open your second job/estimate, restore the window if need be, and position it on the other side of the screen so you can see the line items section of both jobs.

• Click on the line item you wish to copy, and while holding down the mouse button drag the item to the line item field of the second job and drop it. 

Once you've dropped the line item onto the job it will appear at the bottom of any other line items already on that job.  If you need to move that item to a different position in the list please see the Knowledge base article "How do I change the order of my line items".

 

2.27. Why do I have to configure my plugins again in EstiMate 2?

Q:  I just imported all of my EstiMate 1 data in to EstiMate 2.  When I try to open any of my pricing plugins it tells me they have not yet been configured, and asks me if I want to do that now, or just run with the defaults.  I've configured all of my plugins once in the first version of the software, do I need to do it again?

 

A:  We have made some changes to the pricing plugins as well as their configuration settings - they've been made better.  It is highly recommended that you take the time and configure each of your plugins again.  Weather you're just starting out with EstiMate or a seasoned vet you'll want to make sure you're pricing accurately, and consistently, and that means having your plugins set up correctly.  It's also a good idea as circumstances change to make sure your pricing software reflects those changes (this means not only updating your material prices, but also possibly your Market Level, Production Speed, etc.)

 

Some changes that have been made to the configurations screen of some of the plugins are:

• There are now 2 Market Level sliders in each of the 9 plugins that include that option.  This will help you fine tune your pricing for your area.

• You can set your Default Transfer Tape.  Now that you can include multiple Transfer Tapes in EstiMate you can select your default for the plugin.

• You also have the ability to include multiple Quantity Discounts, and Sales Taxes, and select their defaults for each of your plugins.

 

For more information on configuring each of your plugins please see your EstiMate help files: "Quote And Produce" > "Help" > "Help Contents".  (Contents: Using EstiMate > Quoting With Plugins Overview).

 

You should only need to configure each plugin once.  If you are in a Multi-User environment you should still only need to configure them once from any one copy of EstiMate as long as you are connected to the Multi-User Server.  If you configure your plugins, and then notice that your other copies of EstiMate are telling you that your plugins have not yet been configured then most likely the copy of EstiMate that you configured them from was not connected to the Multi-User Server, or those other copies of EstiMate are not currently connected to the Multi-User Server.  For more information/help on getting all of your copies of EstiMate 2 connected to the Multi-User Server please see this article from our online Knowledge Base:

http://estimatesoftware.com/support/index.php?pg=kb.page&id=594

2.28. What is the recommended size for the logo in EstiMate 2?

Q:  What is the recommended size for the logo in EstiMate 2?

 

A:  Importing you logo into EstiMate is easy.  EstiMate supports .BMP, .JPEG, .PNG, .GIF, .WMF, .EMF, and .ICO files.  When exporting your logo from your graphics program, make it 300 pixels for every inch you want it to print.  You'll then be able to adjust the height and width or your logo in EstiMate for the best look on your estimates and invoices.

 

Bitmap, and JPEG files are usually the best choice for your logo, but no matter what file type you use it's recommended that you keep the file size fairly small.  Your logo is one of the first things that Windows loads into memory when EstiMate starts, and it could slow the program down considerably if your logo file is too large.

2.29. What is meant by "Market Level slider should use version 1 range" in the Advanced System Settings?

Q:  What is meant by "Market Level slider should use version 1 range" in the Advanced System Settings?

 

A:  This is generally an option more for customers who have used, or have been using EstiMate 1.  EstiMate 1 had a shorter range for which to adjust the Market Level sliders (it's still 0-100%, but the dollar amounts in EstiMate 2 will go much higher).  You can use this option even if you didn't use EstiMate 1 if you just feel that the range of the EstiMate 2 Market Level sliders is too wide/high (e.g. if at 50% the Market Level is already showing a higher price then you would charge for the example given).

 

If you want to use the EstiMate 1 Market Level range click the Configure And Manage tab, and then the System Settings button.

When the System Settings window opens up, click the Advanced Settings button, and then check the box next to "Market Level slider should use version 1 range", and click the OK button.

2.30. Can I select multiple items to archive or delete?

Q:  Is it possible to select multiple items to be archived or deleted?  If so how do you do it?

 

A:  Yes.  After build number 2.2.0.0 you are now able to select multiple items, and either archive, copy, or delete them.

 

• To do this just open the Open List which will display your current jobs and estimates (if you need to see the Archives click Tasks > Archived Items > Show...).
• Sort your jobs and estimates by one of the categories if need be.  

• Press and hold the "CTRL" key on the keyboard, and then click on each of the items in the list you wish to select.  Continue holding the CTRL key until you've selected (or deselected) all of the items you wish to delete, copy, or archive.

• Right click on any one of the selected items, and select an action (e.g. copy, delete, archive).  The selected action will be preformed on ALL items selected.

• Click the "Yes" button to confirm the action.
  

 

2.31. What is the "Book" icon used for?

Q:  I've just updated my copies of EstiMate to the 2.2.0.0 build, and now I have these "Book" icons next to some of the fields.  What are the used for?

 

A:  The open "Book"icons were originally in EstiMate 1, and they allowed you to go directly into the list that corresponded with the field directly to the left of it.  Since you could only have one window open at a time in EstiMate 1 this option allowed you to still be able to go into a particular list and edit, or add a new item if need be without closing out of your job just to do that. 

 

This option is now available again in EstiMate 2 starting with build number 2.2.0.0.  Even though you can have multiple windows open in EstiMate 2 there are still places in the software where you cannot open a new window until you close the current one (the plugin screens are one such area).  Now with the "Book" icon you can easily open a list to check the cost of a material, change the settings on your printer, add a new material, etc., all on the fly.  Once you make a change to an item in a list, or to the list itself the changes become effective in the plugin immediately.

 

To use this feature just click on the "Book" icon next to the field for the material you want to see the list for.  The "Book" icons are also next to any other item that has a list like customers, sales taxes, printers, etc.

2.32. Can my employees still add customers if they are set as "General Users"?

Q:  I want to limit access to certain features in EstiMate by my employees, but I still need them to be able to add new customers to the database.  Is there a way to do this without having to increase their permission level, or me needing to add the new customer from my account?

 

A:  Yes.  Users set up as "General User" can still add new customers, they are only prevented from deleting, or making them inactive.  For them to add a new customer they can simply open a New Job or Estimate, and in the "Job/EstiMate For" field type the new customer's name and press the Tab or Enter key.  A message will appear telling them that the "new customer" is not in the list, and they can choose to set them up, or cancel.  If they choose "Set up" a New Entry window will appear for them to fill in the rest of the customers information, and save.

 

A "General User" will always need to add new customers this way as they will not have access to the "People" button on the toolbar.  "General Users" can also add other list items such as materials, taxes, upcharges, etc. using the same method as described above, but likewise they are prevented from deleting or deactivating items already in the list.

2.33. Is there a way to export my EstiMate Customer List so that I can import it from another program?

Q:  I would like to be able to export my EstiMate Customer List, so that I can import that list into my PDA.  Is there a way to do this, and if so what formats can the list be exported as?

 

A:  Yes.  Just about anything you can print in EstiMate can be exported out of EstiMate using the "Print to File" option.  If the file coming out of EstiMate is not in the exact layout/format required by your other applications you can always edit it using another program like MS Excel or Open Office Calc.

 

To export your EstiMate Customer List (or any other list from EstiMate):

Before you begin check with your other applications documentation to see what types of files can be imported.  Most applications that allow you to import data will accept text files, so if you are unsure choose Text as the export type.

• Open EstiMate

• Click on the Quote And Produce tab > People > Customers

• When the Customer List comes up click the "Customers" button at the bottom left, and go to "Reports" > Customer Phone List, or Customer List Complete depending on how much information you need.  (Customer Phone list will give you the Company Name, Contact Person, main Phone number, and Email address for all of your customers.  Customer List Complete will give you all of the information available in EstiMate for every customer).

• Next you will see a preview of your Customer List.  Click the "printer" icon in the upper left corner.

• When the Print dialog comes up you will see a "Print to File" check-box about a 1/3 of the way down the screen.

• Check the "Print to File" box.

• Select the type of file you want to export the list as.  You have 5 choices; Text, Report Emulation Text, PDF, Excel, and RTF (Rich Text Format) files.  (If you think further modification of the file will be required then Text or Excel files are you best choice).

• Choose where to save the file.  Click the box with the three dots ([...]) at the end of the where field.  Select where you want to save the file, and be sure to give it a Filename.

• Click the "OK" button.  The list will be saved in the format you selected.  It will not be printed out.

 

Now check with your other applications documentation to see if any formatting needs to be done to the file before you can import it.  If so Excel, Open Office Calc, or even a simple text editor should allow you to get it in the format it needs to be in to import it.

 

 

2.34. Print Margin Issues (e.g. text, and graphics are being cut off on printed reports)

Q:  When I print out my jobs and estimates part of the text is cut off.  It looks fine in the preview.  How can I fix this?

A:  EstiMate reports are static - that is the're are no controls in EstiMate to control margins, fonts, colors, etc., all of that is based on your printer settings.

 

You can either go directly into your printer settings, or the next time you go to print a job/estimate click the "Properties" button (on the last print screen) before you click the "OK" button to start printing.  When the Properties window for you printer comes up you can set the margins correctly, and any other setting your printer allows for, and then click "OK".  Click "OK" on the print screen to print the report and see if your adjustments corrected the issue.

2.35. Importing my EstiMate 1 data into EstiMate 2 keeps failing.

Q:  When I try to import my EstiMate 1 data into EstiMate 2 I keep getting error messages and the import never finishes.  What can I do to fix this, and get all of my EstiMate 1 data imported into EstiMate 2.

 

A:  There can be several reasons why your EstiMate 1 data didn't fully import into EstiMate 2, and there can be just as many error messages indicating why.  Basically if your EstiMate 1 software isn't working correctly the import will most likely fail, and so any issues with EstiMate 1 will need to be addressed before you try the import process again.  There may also be cases when your EstiMate 1 software seems to be fine, but the import process still does not complete properly.  In most all cases EstiMate 2 will report an error which will usually tell you exactly what the issue or offending file in EstiMate 1 is.

 

To begin troubleshooting these issues:

1.  Write down, copy, or take a screenshot of the error message your received in EstiMate 2 during the import process.

2.  Close out of the import screen, and exit out of EstiMate 2.

3.  Open EstiMate 1 on this same machine, and make sure EstiMate 1 isn't open on any other machines.

4.  When EstiMate 1 opens make sure that it's version number 1.98 or greater.

5.  Click on "Management" > "Repair/Maintain Data Files", and then click the "Verify and Rebuild Your Data Files" button, and close when it's finished.

6.  Close EstiMate 1 and make sure it doesn't crash, or give you any error messages.

7.  If you didn't encounter any issue when closing EstiMate 1, open EstiMate 2 and try the import again.

The main issue you might encounter while importing you data is and error that says "Directory is controlled by other .net files".  The procedure above should correct this issue.  If it doesn't then this is what you will need to do.

 

1.  Again verify that no copies of EstiMate 1 are running anywhere on your network.

2.  Click "Start" > "Search", and select "All files and folders".  Make sure that the search is looking in your "Local Hard Drives" (usually C:), and type "dox" (w/o the quotes) into the search field, and click the search button.

3.  The 3 files we are looking for are "Paradox.lck", "Pdoxusrs.lck", and "Pdoxusrs.net".  If any of these files come up, delete them (and only them)

4.  Make sure the search has completed before you exit out of it, and make sure you've deleted any and all of the "Paradox", and "Pdoxusrs" files.

5.  Open EstiMate 2 and try the import again, and it should work.

 

The other issue you might encounter if you've had EstiMate 1 for many years is that there may be missing files in EstiMate 1.  During the import into EstiMate to you may receive a message that says "File Does Not Exist".  It might be for example that you never purchased the Wide Format plugin for EstiMate 1, and so you are missing some of those database files, but now EstiMate 2 is looking for those files.  In the error message on the import screen it will tell you exactly what files are missing (e.g. C:\Program Files\EstiMate\Data\threads.db).  You will need to call or email us with this information (the missing file names), and we will send those to you with instruction on how to get them in place.  Once you've added all of the missing files to your EstiMate 1 data folder you should be able to import all of your data into EstiMate 2.

2.36. Missing buttons in EstiMate 2

Q:  Sometimes after creating a new line item or switching toolbars I notice that some of the buttons are missing.  Why is this, and is there anything I can do to fix this?

 

A:  This is usually just a "screen refresh" issue, and seems to happen (more) when the system (the computer EstiMate is on) is running low on resources. Basically when you switch windows in EstiMate the new window or the window behind the one you were just working on doesn't redraw itself completely (you might be missing a button or two). This isn't really an issue that affects the way the software works, it's just kind of confusing sometimes when you notice certain buttons are missing.

 

The way to correct this issue is to simply hover/roll over the area where the buttons should be.  The "missing" button should then immediately appear on the screen.  If the missing elements don't appear try moving the cursor around the whole area next to the missing element just to be sure you've "touched" it.

 

If the element still does not appear on the screen, save your work, and restart EstiMate.  This will server two purposes, 1. it should correct anything causing this issue, and, 2. If you use the Multi-User Server, or single user system with more then one user account then it's possible that the button were "missing" because you were logged in as a "General User", or "Manager", and do not have access to those parts of the software.  You can correct this issue when you restart EstiMate and are presented with the Log In prompt.  This time be sure to log in as the "Admin" or a user with admin privileges.  If this was the case then another thing you will notice when the buttons are missing is that some of the categories/sections they would normally appear in are also not present.

 

A third possibility for missing elements could be that you were recently in "trial mode", and once you received your permanent license for EstiMate some features were disabled due to the options/packages you chose. 

 

Yet another possibility is that your screen resolution is set really low, and/or your Font DPI is too large, and it's causing some of the buttons or portions of the window to be pushed off screen (which means the buttons are there they are just not visible on the screen).  For now you can grab, and drag the window to one side of the screen or the other to see the buttons, but you will want to eventually refer to this EstiMate Knowledge Base article for instructions on how to fix this issue:

 

http://estimatesoftware.com/support/index.php?pg=kb.page&id=670

3.1. How do I change my Company Name and Address in EstiMate 2?

Q:  I would like to see my full company name on my invoices, and I also have a new address.  How do I change my Company Name and Address in EstiMate 2?

 

A:  Your EstiMate 2 license file uses your Company Name, Contact Person, and Address of validate your copies of EstiMate.  In order to change that information you will need to call or Email us, and we'll be happy to make the change for you.  You are still able to make changes to your main Email address, any of your phone numbers, and shipping address from the System Settings.  From there you can also see  your Company Name and Address as they appear throughout EstiMate.

 

Phone:  1-888-304-3300

Email:  customerservice@estimatesoftware.org

 

 

To open the Systems Settings window:

• Setlect the Configure and Manage tab, and click the System Settings button, and click the Company Name & Address button.

3.2. My Wide Format Printer is not in the list of printers. How do I add my printer?

Q:  My Wide Format Printer is not in the list of printers.  How do I add my printer?

 

A:  EstiMate has a pretty long list of Wide Format printers.  We've included some of the most commonly used printers, as well as their settings (Resolution, print speeds, etc) for your convenience.  If your printer is in the list then all you'll need to do is select it as the default printer in the Wide Format plugin.  If it's not then you will need to set it up yourself.  It's easy to set up your printer if you have all of your setting available.  Your printer settings can usually be found in your owners manual, or on the manufacturers website.  (NOTE:  We do not have settings information for printers other then the ones already in EstiMate).

 

To add your Wide Format Inkjet printer:

 

• Click "Items" > "Plugin Items" > "Wide Format Inkjet" > "Wide Format Inkjet Printers" from the Quote And Produce toolbar.

• When the list opens click the "Wide Format Inkjet Printers" button at the bottom left, and select "New".

• When the "New Entry" properties window opens type in the Name of your printer under the "WFI Properties" tab.  The Category and Description are optional.

• Switch to the "Additional Details" tab and click the "Add Speed" button.

• A new speed will be added to the list below.  This is how you will add each of your printers available speed and resolution settings.

• Click in each of the columns of the new line and type in (or use the up/down arrows in the field) the corresponding information (i.e. Description: (For example Draft Mode), Resolution (300 x 300), Speed (400 ft2 hr).

• Click the "Add Speed" button and repeat the above steps until all (or the ones you want) of your print modes are in the list.

• TIP:  If you have more then one Wide Format printer you might want to make the others in the list Inactive so you don't have to go through the whole list when trying to select on in the Wide Format plugin.  To do this just right click on the printer you want to "turn off" and select "...make inactive".

• When you are finished click the OK button. 

• Now if you want you can select your printer as the default for the Wide Format plugin by opening the plugin and clicking Configure.

 

 

3.3. How to know what database you're connected to.

Q:  Sometimes jobs I've created don't show up in the Open list.  I have a couple of databases and I'm never sure which one I'm connected to.  I'm wondering if maybe I'm just in the wrong database.  How can I tell which database I'm in?

 

A:  This can happen sometimes if you use the Multi-User Server, or if you just have more then one EstiMate database on your computer.  In EstiMate you can see if you are connect to a local folder, or to the Multi-User Server.  If you're connected to the Multi-User Server then you'll need to go to the computer which has it installed and check there for the location of the database folder.

 

To check from EstiMate:

• In EstiMate 2 (while in the database) click Help > About EstiMate.

• When the About screen comes up click the "Connection Details" button at the bottom of the screen.

• A little window will come up and and say "You are connected to a local folder located at: (location of a folder on this computer or another on your network - e.g. C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\EstiMate\Data), or it will say "You are connected to a Multi-User Server located at: (the IP address of the computer that the Multi-User Server is running on - e.g. EstiMate Server@192.168.1.101).

 

To check the path fom the Multi-User Server:

• If you are connected to the Multi-User Server, but you still need to know the exact location of the folder it's connected to then go to the computer that it's running on and double click the EstiMate Server icon in the Systems Tray (by the computer clock).

• This will bring up the Multi-User Server (EstiMate Server) window.  Make sure everyone is out of EstiMate and click the "Stop Server" button.

• Now click the "Settings" button.  On the next screen you will see under "Data" the location of the folder that the Multi-User Server is currently connected to. 
  

3.4. How can I move my database from one computer to another?

Q:  How can I move my database from one computer to another?

 

A:  The easiest and safest way to move your database would be to make a backup of it in EstiMate, and then restore that backup into a new install of EstiMate.  That assumes though that you are just switching EstiMate from one computer to another.  If you actually need to move the database to new location on your computer or network you can do that as well.

 

By default the EstiMate database is located at C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\EstiMate\Data on the computer EstiMate is installed on.

If you use the EstiMate Multi-User Server then the database will be located a C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\EstiMate\Multi-User Data on the computer that the Multi-User Server is installed on.

If you are using Windows Vista then your EstiMate and Multi-User database will be located at C:\ProgramData\EstiMate\Data, and C:\ProgramData\EstiMate\Multi-User Data respectively.

 

If you need to move your database you should make a copy of the whole folder (right click on the "Data" folder and select copy).  Next navigate to the new location where you would like the database stored and paste the folder there.  If you need to move it to a new computer and don't have a network then you will want to copy and paste it onto some sort of removable media like a flash drive.  You can then carry the flash drive to the new computer

3.5. How to make a new database.

Q:  I would like to create a second database to keep the two parts of my business, and clients separate.  How can I create a database in addition to the one I already have.

 

A:  The database is basically just a group of files in a folder, so you can create a New (empty) Folder just about anywhere on your computer or network, and EstiMate will create a database there for you the first time you connect to that folder.

 

To create a new database.

• You can either create the new folder from Windows first, or you can create the new folder from EstiMate.

Windows.

• To create the folder from Windows browse to the location on your computer were you want the database folder to reside (e.g. C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\EstiMate).  Next right click in the window for that location and select "New" > "Folder".  Now give the folder a name and press Enter.

• Now you can connect to that folder by opening EstiMate (and closing your current database first if it's open), and clicking on the "Connect to Local Folder" button.  Now a window will come up and you can browse to the folder you just created, click on it, and click the OK button.  EstiMate will tell you there's no database there, click "Yes" to create one now.

 

EstiMate.

• To create the folder from EstiMate open EstiMate (close the current database first if it's open), and click either the "New Database" button or the "Connect to Local Folder" button.

• A window will come up for you to browse to a folder.  Browse to the location where you want to create the new folder.  Click on the folder that you want the New Folder to reside in, and then click the "Create Folder" button at the top of that window.

• Give the new folder a name and press Enter.

• Click on the new folder and click the OK button.

• EstiMate will tell you that there is no database there, click "Yes" to create on now.

 

NOTE:  If you use the "New Database" button be sure not to click the "Create Database" button before you've selected a folder for that database otherwise it will put all of the database files on your desktop (and not in a folder, but all over the place).

3.6. How do I use the Upcharges section of the plugins?

Q:  What is the "Upcharges" section used for, and how do I use it?

 

A:  Upcharges are a way for you to add additional charges to a quote without the need to add them as a separate line item.

 

Upcharges can be added as either additional time in "Minutes", or as a "Percent" of the total labor time.

You then need to specify weather this is a "Design Task", or a "Production Task".  The additional time will then be added to the selected category (i.e. Design Time, or Production Time).

 

Some examples of Upcharges include:

• Window Cleaning
• Grommet Banner
• Hem Banner
• Scan and clean up logo
• Rush Orders, etc.

You can add a new Upcharge from either the Upcharge tab in the plugin, or by going to Items > Upcharges.

To add a new Upcharge to the Upcharges list from the plugin window (on the fly):

• Click the Upcharges tab.

• Type the Name for the new Upcharge, and press the Tab or Enter key on your keyboard.

• EstiMate will tell you that the item isn't in the list and you will have the option to set it up

• Click the "Set Up" button to set the parameters for the new item. 

To add a new Upcharge from the Items menu (to add multiple Upcharges to the list of Upcharges all at once):

• From the Quote and Produce tab click Items > Upcharges

• When the Upcharges list comes up click the Upcharges button in the lower left corner and select "New" 

Set up the properties for you new Upcharge:

• Type in a name for the new Upcharge if it's not already in the field

• Decide weather this new item will be a flat rate of time in "Minutes", or if it's to be a "Percent" of the total Design or Production time.

• Select either "Minutes" or "Percent", and then type in a number value.

• For "Upcharge Type" select either "Design Task" (for things like logo clean up), or "Production Task" (for things like window cleaning), and the additional time will be added to the correct category.

• Click the OK button. 

Then, to add the upcharge into your estimate:

• Click on Upcharges tab found in each plugin

• Select the upcharge you desire

• Click add.

• Confirm the quantity of how many times you want that upcharge added

• You'll notice that either your design time or your production time (whichever applied to your upcharge) has increased to include the upcharge.
  

 

 

3.7. How do I change the order of my line items on my job or estimate?

Q:  I have a line item that I would like to be at the to of my quote instead of where it currently is.  Is there a way to move it from its current position without having to delete all of the items above it?

 

A:  Yes you are able to move your line items up or down in the list one space at a time.  The order there are in in the list is how they will appear on the printed quote/invoice.

 

To move your line items up and down through the list.

• Right click on the item you want to move.

• Select either "Move Item Up", or "Move Item Down".

• Continue the above steps until the items are in the order you want them.
  

3.8. How do I print my customer list, and mailing labels?

Q:  How do I print my customer list, and mailing labels?

 

A:  In EstiMate 2 you can pint Mailing Labels (Avery style) to affix to mailings to your customer.  You can also print a Customer Phone List (Company, contact, phone, and Email), and a Customer List Complete which also includes physical addresses.

 

To print any of these lists:

 

• From the Quote And Produce toolbar click People > Customers to open the customer list.

• From the bottom left corner click Customers > Reports > and select one of the 3 options.  (NOTE:  If you want to see a "Preview" of the report before it prints be sure there is a check mark next to "Preview List Reports" otherwise click on it to select the preview option).

• Select the customers you want to show on the report by placing a check mark next to there name, or click the "Select All" link, and press the OK button.

• Click the printer icon in the upper left corner of the preview to print the report.
  

 

If you need to print out a list of Vendors you have all of the same options.  All you need to do is click People > Vendors, and the directions above are the same for the Vendors list.

NOTE:  If you don't see the list of customers to select from, or if the report shows up blank restart EstiMate, and that should resolve the issue.

3.9. How do I import my contacts from Outlook and other programs?

Q:  How do I import my contacts from Outlook and other programs?

 

A:  To import your contact from a program other then QuickBooks you'll need to be able to export your contacts as a delimited text file or a .csv (comma separated values) file.  If your program will do that then follow the directions below to bring them into EstiMate 2.

 

Delimited text files are just text files containing database information such as contact information, separated ("delimited") by a character uncommon in the text file, such as a tab or a comma. These fields are often also further demarked by a "separator" such as a quote (") character.

 

To begin importing your contacts from a text "delimited" or comma separated value file:

 

• NOTE:  You must first export you contacts as a text or comma separated value file from your other program (i.e. Outlook, ACT, etc.).  While instructions on creating your delimited file are beyond the scope of this discussion, a recommended program for this is Microsoft Excel.

• Click the Configure And Mange tab, and the "Import Contacts" button.

• If you've exported your contacts already click the "Select File" button to locate and open the file for importing.

• On the next screen you'll need to select the delimiter your file uses, comma, tab, or other.  If you use an "other" delimiter a box will appear for you to enter your one-character delimiter.

• Next, enter your separator (if you have one). Usually this will be blank or a quote character ("). 

• Play around with these settings until it looks good in the grid.

• If you want to use the first row as your "header" row, check the box. Often the first row will be a list of field names (Company | Customer | Phone, etc.), and you won't want to import it, but it's also very helpful if you do have a row of headers/columns).

• When everything looks right in the list of contacts below place a check mark in the box next to each customer you want to import, or just click the Select All link, and click the Next button.

• Now you will need to select which fields (from your customer file) you want to map to each of the fields present in an EstiMate customer record (left column).

• To select one of your fields click the box to the right of the EstiMate field and select it from the drop-down list.  When you are finished click the Next button.

• Click the drop-down box under "Import these contacts as", and you'll have the choice of either Customers or Vendors.  (Make sure you select the right one for what you have in your export file).

• When you're ready click the "Import Now" button.

• When it's finished EstiMate will tell you how many contacts have been Added, Merged, or Skipped.

• Click the OK button to close the window.
  

 

 

 

3.10. How do I activate new features that I've purchased or other changes to my software?

Q:  I've just purchased some new plugins for my EstiMate software, but they are not showing up in the list when I click "Add Item".  How can I get these new items to show up?

 

A:  After you purchase new plugins, addons, or additional licenses you still need to download a new license file to unlock those changes in your software.

 

To download a new license file:

• Click on the Configure And Manage tab.

• Click the "Download New License File" button.

• You might get a message that says "You only need to download a new license file if you have changed your company name or address info with us over the phone, or have made new purchases with us via phone.  Continue?"  Click the "Yes" button to continue.
  

• After a few seconds you will receive a message stating "The new license file had been downloaded".

• You will need to restart EstiMate in order for the new changes to become effective.

• When you reopen EstiMate you should have access to the new features. 

Purchasing new components for your EstiMate software is one reason you will need to download a new license file, but you will also need to download a new license file if you've changed your company name, or address with us over the phone.  You may also need to do this if your temporary license file has expired or become invalidated because the time and date on your computer clock has changed.

3.11. How do I update my software?

Q:  When I open EstiMate it tells me "There is a new version of EstiMate available to download".  When I click "OK" it brings up a web page.  What am I supposed to download?

 

A:  EstiMate does not update itself *automatically* like some other softwares do.  However we recently added the ability for EstiMate to check and see if any updates are available to help ensure that you are always running the most current version.

 

If your computer(s) is connected to the internet and you are running a version of EstiMate greater then 2.0.0.385 then when a new "build" becomes available EstiMate will notify you of this the next time you open it. 

To download and install the update:

• Click "OK" on the message "There is a new version of EstiMate available to download".

• Another message will appear informing you that the link you have selected will launch a website in your internet browser.  Click "OK" to proceed.

• When the "EstiMate Updates Page" appears you can close EstiMate.  You can do this at any time before you run the installer, but EstiMate must be closed in order to update it.

• On the EstiMate Updates Page click on the link that says EstiMate 2.0 >> Download eSetup.exe 

• Depending on which web browser you are using you'll be given the option to "Save" the file or "Run" it, or both.

• If you are only updating this one station you can just click "Run" so that you don't have to find and run the eSetup installer after it's finished downloading.  If you don't have that option or you need to install the update on multiple machines then "Save" would be the better option.  If you need to install the update on more then one computer then we suggest saving this file to something you can access from all of the computers (e.g. USB Flash Drive, Network Shared Folder, CD, etc.).

• If you get a message stating that "The publisher could not be verified.  Are you sure you want to run this software" you can just click the "Run" button.

• If you chose "Run" then the installer should start automatically otherwise you will need to find the "eSetup.exe" file and double click on it.

• Follow the prompts in the Setup Wizard to complete the update.

If EstiMate doesn't prompt you to update because that computer is not connected to the internet or because it's a really early version then you will need to open the updates webpage manually.  Here is the link to the EstiMate Updates Page:   http://wwww.estimatesoftware.com/2.0/updates.php

 

If your copies of EstiMate are networked together it is also important to make sure that the EstiMate Multi-User Server is up to date.  On the updates page you will also find the link to the Multi-User Server.  There will be a message in "red" on the updates page informing you of the latest version of the Multi-User Server.  If you are running a version earlier then the one stated you will need to update it as well.

 

To Update the Multi-User Server:

• Check to see which version you are currently running.  To do this find the Multi-User Server which should be running in the Systems Tray (by the computer clock).  You can "hover" over Multi-User Server icon with the cursor to see information about it including the "build number", or your can double click on it to bring it up and you will see the build number in the title bar.

• If you need to update the Multi-User Server you will need to do that from the (1) computer that is running the server.

• First stop the server by right clicking on it in the Systems Tray and selecting "Exit".

• Next download the file "eServerSetup.exe" from the updates page.

• If you selected "Run" then the installation will start automatically when it is finished downloading, otherwise find the "eServerSetup" file you saved and double click on it to start the installation wizard. 

• When the update is finished the Multi-User Server should launch and be in the "Running" state.

• You can now start or restart you copies of EstiMate to reconnect to the Multi-User Server.
  

NOTE:  The updates webpage is not only for updating your existing EstiMate 2 software, but also for brand new installations.  The two files (eSetup. amd eServerSetup) are the complete program installers, and not just partial updates.

 

3.12. How do I sort the entries in my Open list?

Q:  How do I sort the entries in my Open list?

 

A:  The easiest way to sort the entries in your Open list is to click on the "header" you want the list sorted by (e.g. Date, Number, Customer).  EstiMate will immediately sort all of your entries by that column.  EstiMate will retain the last sort order each time you open the "Open" list however it will not retain more then one sort order, or order of one particular column (for example you can't have it sort by both Customer and Number at the same time - at least not for the entire list).

 

EstiMate also has some advanced sort options you can use to find the jobs and estimates you're looking for. 

EstiMate has 7 headers you can sort the "Open" list by:  Customer | Num | Date | Salesperson | Due Date | Archived | Status.  You cannot delete any of the headers or add your own.

 

To show only a single Customer or a group of Customers (Date or bunch of Dates, Salesperson or group of Salespeople, etc):

• Hover over the header, and you'll see a drop-down arrow appear (on all headers except for Num and Archived).

• Click the drop-down arrow, and you will see a list of whatever header you've clicked on (Customers, Dates, Due Dates, etc).

• Select the item/s you want to see, and these are the only items that will appear in your "Open" list.

• You can do this for one or more of the headers to help narrow your search.

• At the bottom of the open list you will see a string of the items you are currently viewing in an SQL (Structured Query Language) statement.

• To close out of the current view, and see the entire list of items again click the "red X" at the bottom left of the screen, or uncheck the check-box right next to the "X".
  

 

There are also some "really" advanced sort options for those who know a bit of SQL.

• To see the advanced option and create or run your own filters click the "Customize" button at the bottom right of the "Open" list next to your current query string.
  

 

 

 

3.13. How do I restore a backup in EstiMate 2?

Q:  How do I restore a backup EstiMate 2?

 

A:  Restoring a backup is as easy as making a backup.  There are a few thing to be aware however before you restore a backup, and overwrite all of your current data. 

The first thing to know is that this process is not reversible, unless, you've just made a backup of your current data (which is what we advise if possible, and generally a good idea before you ever do anything *drastic* to the system.) 

The second thing is to make sure you are restoring your most current backup.  This process will restore everything in EstiMate back to what it was the moment you made that backup.  Anything you've done since that point (e.g. created new jobs/estimates, added/edited/deleted materials, customers, changed settings, etc) will be overwritten.  It's a good idea to include the date in the filename when making a backup, so you can easily locate the most current backup.

In a Multi-User environment all copies of EstiMate (except the one restoring the backup) must be closed, and it must be in Single User Mode (Blue EstiMate icon - upper left > Switch to Single User Mode).  

 

To restore a backup:

 

• Click the Configure and Manage tab, and then click the "Backup / Restore Data Files" button.

• When the Backup / Restore window comes up click the "Restore" tab, and then the "Restore" button.

• An "Open" dialog window will come up.  At the top where it says "Look In" select the location where you saved your backup files (e.g. Desktop, My Documents, external hard drive, USB Flash Drive, server computer, etc.).

• Find your most current backup file, and either double click on it, or click once on it and then click the "Open" button.  

• EstiMate will ask you to confirm that you wish to perform this procedure - Click the "Yes" button to proceed. 

• EstiMate will restore your backup and when it's finished it will show "Done" above the progress bar, and you can click the "Close" button.

• A window will come up telling you that EstiMate must be restarted to apply the changes.  Click "OK" and EstiMate will shut down.

• Reopen EstiMate and all of your restored data should be there.
  

Note:  If you receive an error message during the restore process which says "Object TEMboUserSession('long number') was updated by another session", just click the "OK" button to finish the restore.  This error will not affect the restore process.

Another thing to be aware of is that you cannot restore a backup directly from a USB Flash Drive (we are not sure why this is currently).  To restore your backup you must first move it to a location on your computer, and then it will restore with no problems.

 

3.14. How do I make a backup in EstiMate 2?

Q:  How do I make a backup in EstiMate 2?

 

A:  It's very easy to make a backup of your data in EstiMate 2.  It's also very important that you remember to do this on a regular basis as EstiMate does not do this for you "automatically", nor does it remind you to do it. 

 

To make a backup in EstiMate:

• Click the Configure and Manage tab, and then click the "Backup / Restore Data Files" button.

• When the Backup / Restore window comes up click the "Backup" tab, and then the "Backup" button.

• A "Save As" dialog window will come up.  At the top where it says "Look In" select the location you wish to save the EstiMate backup file (e.g. Desktop, My Documents, external hard drive, USB Flash Drive, server computer, etc.).

• Down at the bottom of this window you will need to give the backup a "File Name".  You can name the file anything you want, but we recommend something like "EstiMateBackup01-01-2008" (without the quotes) so that it's easily identifiable and you know when it was created (and how far back you'll go if you have to restore this backup).

• You do not need to change the "Files of Type" section as "ZIP files" should already be selected, and that is the type of file it needs to be.
  

• Next click the "Save" button.  EstiMate will begin backing up all of your data from EstiMate (everything in EstiMate will be backed up - Customers, materials, Jobs, Estimates, settings, etc.).

• You can watch the progress of the backup as it's being made.  When it's finished it will say "Done", and you can click the "Close" button.

If you are using the EstiMate Multi-User Server to connect your copies of EstiMate to the same database then you only need to do the backup from one of the EstiMate stations.  This will backup all of the data that is on the Multi-User Server.  You don't always have to make the backup from the same machine but it is recommended that you save the backups to a central location so that when you need one you don't have to search multiple computers looking for the most recent backup file.

If you are using more then one copy of EstiMate, but maintaining separate databases then you will need to make a backup from each copy of EstiMate that uses it's own separate database.  EstiMate only backs up the database it is currently connected to. 

3.15. How do I change my job and estimate numbers?

Q:  How do I change my job and estimate numbers?

 

A:  In EstiMate 2 there are a couple of ways to change your job and estimate numbers.  There are also a couple of ways to "track" your numbers - You can track your job and estimate numbers as one, or you can track them separately.

 

To change your starting numbers system wide:

• Click the Configure and Manage tab, and then the System Settings button (if you are in a Multi-User environment you must first go into Single User Mode - Click the blue EstiMate icon in the upper left, and select "Switch to Single User Mode").
  

• In the System Settings window click the "Advanced Settings" icon on the left.

• Under "Estimate And Job Numbering System" you will see that you have the option to track your numbers as one (unchecked), or separately (checked).

• If they are tracked using only one set of numbers then whenever you convert an estimate to a job it will keep that same number as the estimate.   If you want to change your starting number then you can just type in the new number next to "Current Highest Estimate Number".

• If you want to track you job and estimate number separately then check the box ("Track Estimate and Job numbers separately").  Now you can set your starting estimate number, and then you can set your starting job number.  This way if you convert an estimate to a job it will use the next highest job number instead of keeping the estimate number.  *NOTE:  This is the way EstiMate 1 tracked numbers (separately).

To change an individual job or estimate number.

You can change the number of a single job or estimate, but only if you are tracking job, and estimate numbers SEPARATELY.  If you change the number of a job or estimate while tracking them as one it will also make the change in the System Settings, and will go forward from the number you just typed in.

• To change the number of your job or estimate you simply type the new number into the "Number" field.
  

 

EXAMPLE:  If the number of the job or estimate you just opened was 1000, and you typed in 1050 when you save that job/estimate it will be 1050.  When you open a new job or estimate after that it will be 1000 because 1000 is still the next number in line in the System Settings.  However EstiMate will not prevent you from creating duplicate numbers, so when you reach job/estimate number 1050 EstiMate will not warn you that you are about to create a duplicate number.

 

NOTE:  For the reason above it is not usually recommended that you change your job and estimate numbers directly from the job/estimate screen.  One thing EstiMate 2 will allow you to do though is to use letters as well as numbers, so if you need to change the number for some reason you could just add a letter to the number (e.g. 1000a) to help differentiate it from the rest. 

3.16. How do I check my data out so I can take it on the road on my laptop?

Q:  How do I use the Check In/Out feature so I can take my information on the road with me.

 

A:  You can check your data out and take it on the road with you.  This checked out version will basically only allow you to create new jobs or estimates.  Once you have finished working with that copy you can create the merge file needed to merge your changes with the main database at the shop.

To check your data out:

• While connected to the database you want to make a checked out copy of click the Configure And Manage tab, and then the Check Data In/Out button.

• Click the Check Out tab, and then the Check Out Data Now button.

• A "Save As" window will come up.  Choose where to save the database zip file (either directly onto the laptop's hard drive, or something like a USB Flash Drive).

Now that you've checked your data out you will need to restore that checked out copy to a location on your laptop.  This checked out copy is essentially a backup that you will need to restore once you are connected to a local folder on your laptop.

• To begin, create a new folder anywhere on your laptop and call it "Checked Out Data".

• Open EstiMate, and if it opens up into a database click the EstiMate icon in the upper left and select "Close Database". 

• Now from the connect toolbar click the "Connect to local folder" button and select the folder you just created (Checked Out Data).

• EstiMate will tell you that the folder you have selected does not appear to contain a database - say "OK" to create one there. 

• Once the new database opens you may be presented with the Welcome Wizard.  Click "Next" accepting the defaults, and then click "Finished".

• Now that you're in the new local database you can restore your checked out copy of the database.  Click the Configure And Manage tab, and then the Backup/Restore Data Files button.

• Click the Restore tab and then the Restore button.  Find and select the Checked Out zip file you saved to your hard drive or USB flash drive and click "Open".

• Once the database is restored EstiMate will tell you it needs to be restarted.  Click "OK" to restart EstiMate and it will shut down.  You will need to manually restart EstiMate.

• When EstiMate reopens you will be in the Checked Out copy, and you will see a message telling you what you can't do in this checked out copy.  Click  "OK" on this message to begin working.

 

After you've finished working in the checked out database you will need to create a merge file that will be "Checked In" once you've connected back to the shop's main database. 

To create the merge file:

• From you laptop while still in the Checked Out copy click Configure And Manage > Check Data In/Out > Save Merge File.

• A "Save As" window will come up and you will need to choose where to save the merge file (e.g. USB flash drive), give it a filename, and then click Save.

Once you're back at the shop you can connect your laptop back to the network.  When you open EstiMate it will automatically open up into the Checked Out database. 

To connect back to the network: 

• In the upper left click the EstiMate icon and select "Close Database".

• From the Connect toolbar make sure the laptop is seeing the Multi-User Server (you should see "EstiMate Server@192.168.?.?" next to "Server To Connect To").  If you don't see the Multi-User Server click the "Rescan Network" button.  Once the servers IP address shows up click the Connect to Selected Server button.

Now that you are connected back to the shop's database you can merge your changes back into this database.

• Click the Configure And Manage > Check Data In/Out > Check In tab > Check In button. 
  

• Find and select the merge file you saved earlier, and click "Open".  EstiMate will begin merging the changes with the rest of the database, once it's finished click "Close".

 

Now that you work has been merged with the shop's data everyone will be able to see and access the jobs/estimates you created while out on the road.  Be aware that any jobs/estimates created in the shop take precedence over what you had created on the road.  If you created estimate number 524 in the checked out copy and someone at the shop created estimate 524 as well the one you created will become estimate number 525. 

3.17. How do I un-select a discount from the estimate screen?

3.18. Importing Your Data From Version 1 To Version 2

This article details the steps for importing your data from EstiMate Version 1.98 or higher into EstiMate 2.

NOTE: Before you begin you must first make sure that your original version of EstiMate is updated to 1.98 or greater.  If it is not you can download the latest version here:  Update your copy of EstiMate now! 

To begin importing your EstiMate 1.98+ data click the Configure And Manage tab one the Ribbon (toolbar), and then click the Import EstiMate 1.98+ Data button.



NOTE:  EstiMate 1.98 must be shut down, and must also reside on the same computer EstiMate 2.0 is installed on. 

In the next step EstiMate 2.0 will try and locate the data that EstiMate 1.98 has been using.  Click the Connect to EstiMate 1.98+ Data button to begin the search. 



If EstiMate 2.0 was successful in locating your EstiMate 1.98 data then you may begin importing that data.    To begin the import process click the Import Data Now button.

NOTE:  This will completely overwrite any work you have done in EstiMate 2.0.  

 

Depending on the amount of data you have in EstiMate 1.98 this process could take several minutes.  Once the process is complete you may close the data importer and begin working with your data!

3.19. Manual Backup: How to make a backup of your EstiMate Data if you can't get into EstiMate

Q:  My hard drive failing, and I can't open EstiMate, and I don't have any backups.  How can I backup my data/save my data?

 

A:  If the drive is still accessible to grab files off of you should be able to get your data off of there, and onto another media like a USB Flash Drive, or CD-R.

 

The default location of the EstiMate database is:

C:\Documents And Settings\All Users\Application Data\EstiMate\Data

Under Vista it's:

C:\Program Data\EstiMate\Data

If you use the EstiMate Multi-User Server then your data should already be safely on another computer unless the computer with the failing drive is the one that the Multi-User Server is installed on.  If the latter is the case then the data will be located by default at:

C:\Documents And Setting\All Users\Application Data\EstiMate\Multi-User Data

 

You simply need to navigate to the appropriate location, and make a copy of that entire folder ("Data", or "Multi-User Data" - it will have 47 files in it; all *.nx1 files, and 1 *.cfg file).

 

NOTE:  Since you can pretty much create an EstiMate database/folder anywhere on your computer or network if you ever selected another location for your data you will need to go to that location.  If you need to you can search for "*.nx1" w/o the quotes, and it will show you all of the locations on your computer that those files exist.  Just make sure the the folder you copy is more then 2.0MB (this is the default size of an EstiMate Data folder).  If you do have any backups made from EstiMate they would be "zip" files.

4.1. Error: Exception .exe violation in module:

Q:  I just recently downloaded and installed the Quick Quoter version of EstiMate 2.  Now when I go to launch the program I get an error:  "Error: Exception exe violation in module", and EstiMate never opens.  How can I fix this?

 

A:  This is a Windows error reporting that it was unable to open the specified application or module for some reason (possibly due to a missing or corrupted program file).  This error may also be followed by an Access Violation error which may provide further information about the issue, or offending files. 

 

To fix this issue will depend on what's causing the issue, but generally it's that a file that the program needs is corrupted, been replaced with a different version, is being used by another program, or is just MIA.

 

If you've just installed the program, or even if you've been using EstiMate the first thing to do is restart the computer it's on.  When the computer is back up try starting EstiMate again.  In most cases this will have resolved the issue.  If you've just installed EstiMate the restart should have allowed all of the newly installed components to be recognized by the OS (which also brings up the point that you should make sure you're using a compatible Operating System - Windows XP or better is what is required.

 

If you're still encountering the issue the next step will be to reinstall EstiMate. 

If you've just installed EstiMate you can go ahead and run the installer (eSetup.exe) again.  If you chose to "Run" it the last time from our website you'll need to go back to our website and download it again.

 

If you've been using EstiMate you'll want make sure you have a recent backup of your data before you reinstall.  If you don't have a recent backup you can manually backup your data by making a copy of your EstiMate 2 "Data" folder which by is located at "C:\Documents And Settings\All Users\Application Data\EstiMate\Data", or "C:\Program Data\EstiMate\Data" under Vista.

 

If after reinstalling EstiMate you're still having issues please contact EstiMate for further assistance.

4.2. I'm getting error messages when trying to open my jobs/estimates after updating EstiMate to the 2.2.0.0 build.

Q:  I've just updated my copies of EstiMate to the latest 2.2.0.0 build.  Now when I try to open some of my jobs and estimates including my most recent ones I get an error message that says: " Invalid object class TchpboQuantity Discount in attribute TInstantPart (‘HardNumbers’). Required class TEMboHardNumbers.".  I can't open any of those jobs/estimates now, how can I fix this?

 

A:  There was also an update to the Multi-User Server part of the software in the 2.2.0.0 build (NOTE: The Multi-User Server doesn't prompt you to update it like EstiMate does).  If you only updated your copies of EstiMate (the clients) then this is most likely the reason you are getting these errors.  This issue doesn't seem to permanently affect your data, but you will need update the Multi-User Server in order to stop the error messages and access your jobs and estimates again.

Here are a couple of other error messages you might encounter with this issue:

"Invalid object class TchpboSalesTax in attribute TInstantPart('HardNumbers"). Required Class TEMboHardNumbers."

or this if you try to print:

Invalid Pointer Operation or Error reading value from field ‘HardNumber.DesignLabor’: Access violation at address 2006958 in module ‘rtl100bpl.’ Read of address FFFFFFDC.

 

Here is a link to the EstiMate update page where you can download the latest builds of EstiMate and the Multi-User Server:

 

http://www.estimatesoftware.com/2.0/updates.php

 

• Before you download and run, or attempt to install the updates make sure that all copies of EstiMate and the Multi-User Server are closed.

• From the computer that already has the Multi-User Server installed on it (the MUS should only be on 1 computer/server) follow the link from above to the updates page.

• Click on the link for the Multi-User Server (eServerSetup.exe).

• You can either "Save" the file to your computer and run it when it finished downloading, or you can "Run" it directly from our server.

• Run the Install Wizard.  When the Multi-User Server update has finished installing make sure the "Launch Multi-User Server" check box is checked and click "Finish".

• The Multi-User Server will start.  You should now be able to connect to it from EstiMate and the error messages should no longer be an issue. 
  

4.3. "Cannot Open File" error when trying to restore an EstiMate backup.

Q:  I am trying to restore an EstiMate backup I made on my desktop computer to my laptop.  When I click the restore button I get an error message that says:  "Cannot open file "G:\EstiMateBackup10-15-08.zip".  The process cannot access the file because it is being used by another process".  How can I fix this?

 

A:  This is usually the result of trying to restore a backup into a copy of EstiMate that is running on a Windows Vista machine, and when the backup is stored on a USB Flash drive, or USB backup drive.  The solution is simply to move the "Backup.zip" file off of the USB drive, and on to the computer's hard drive (like the desktop, or My Documents, etc), and then restore it from that location instead.  The USB drive is fine for storing the backup and moving it over to the other computer, but it just cannot be restore directly from the drive itself (this is only if the copy of EstiMate you're restoring the backup to is on a Vista machine - if it's on WinXP you should be able to restore directly from the USB drive).

4.4. Floating point error after updating updating the software.

Q:  I just updated my EstiMate software to the newest build, and when I try to open my jobs and estimates or access the new Vehicle Wraps plugin I get a Floating Point error.  The error says: "Error retrieving object TEMboJob('E6A9AA8BE0F4C1469A92D12B539F9EDA'): "'34.5' is not a valid floating point value".

 

A:  This error can occur if you have your Windows default language (Regional Options) set to something other then English (US) during the installation of the software or an update.  The differences in currency symbols, accent marks, date separators, used in other countries can sometimes throw EstiMate after an update, and cause a Floating Point error to occur.

 

To resolve this issue:

If you've encountered this error then you've most likely already installed the update, and now you need to: 

• Close EstiMate.

• Click Start > Control Panel > Regional and Language Options.

• Under the Regional Options tab select "English (United States)".

• Click the Apply and OK buttons.

• Now reinstall the update either from the saved file (if you saved it the last time you downloaded it), or from our updates page.

• Make sure you can open one of the jobs or estimates that wouldn't open before, or if you were unable to open the Vehicle Wraps plugin, open it now, configure it, and then click the "Save Changes" button.

• Change you Regional Options back to your original settings/language.

 

You should now be able to move freely through EstiMate without encountering this error.  If for some reason you do still get the error try restarting EstiMate once so that it's able to pick up on the changes you just made.

4.5. NexusDB "Clone Database" error when trying to make a backup.

Q:  When I go to make a backup in EstiMate 2 I get an error that says:  "NexusDB: CloneDatabase: INTERNAL: File could not be opened [C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\EstiMate\Database Backup\nxTrans.cfg, error 32, The process cannot access the file because it is being used by another process] [$2405/9221]."

 

A:  The reason for this error can be seen in the last part of the file path shown in the error message.  Somehow EstiMate was connected to the folder called "Database Backup" instead of just the "Data" folder.  Basically EstiMate can't make a backup of this folder because it's *already* a "backup" of your database files.  The folder you want to be connected to is called "Data" by default.  Depending on how long you've been connected to this "Database Backup" folder you may just be able to just switch back to the "Data" folder and continue working, but if you've been connected and working in it for awhile you'll need to follow the procedures below to see how to copy that data and move it to another folder. 

 

To fix this issue (Switching back to the "Data" folder):

• Click the blue EstiMate in the upper left corner, and select "Close Database".

• When you're back on the "Connect" toolbar click the "Connect To Local Folder" button.

• From the "Select Folder For Database Window" navigate to "C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\EstiMate\Data".  Make sure you click right on the "Data" folder, and then click the OK button.  NOTE:  If you were connect to a folder other then "Data" prior to this, and you know what folder that was navigate to and click on that folder instead, and then click OK.

 

EstiMate will open up into the database you just selected.  If all of your data is there (i.e. just as it was when you were connected to the "Database Backup" folder) then you should be good to go, and you should now be able to make a backup of your data.  If your current jobs and estimates, or none of your data is there (in the "Data" folder) then you will need to copy the files from the "Database Backup" folder and paste them into this folder or you can make a new folder and paste them into that one.

 

To fix this issue (Copying the files from the "Database Backup" folder, and putting them into a "usable" folder):

• Close EstiMate.
  

• Right click on your Start button and select "Explore"

• When Windows Explorer opens navigate to "C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\EstiMate\Database Backup", or paste this path (w/o the quotes) into the Address Bar of Windows Explorer (not Internet Explorer).

• In the "Database Backup" folder you will see a bunch of "*.nx1" files (47 of them).  Click somewhere in that folder or on one of those files and press "CTRL + A" to select all of the files in that folder.

• Press "CTRL + C", or right click on one of the selected files and select "Copy" to copy all of those files.

• On the left click back on the "EstiMate" folder.  Now you can either click on the "Data" folder, and paste (CTRL + V, or right click and "Paste") all of those files into that folder (replacing any files that were already there), or if you want you can create a new folder here in the EstiMate folder, and paste all of those files there.  NOTE:  If you are at all unsure about replacing all of the files in the "Data" folder then just create a new folder (and call it "Data2" or something), and paste the files in that folder.

• Now open EstiMate, and click the "Connect To Local Folder" button (You may need to close the current database first if EstiMate opens up into it).

• Navigate to the the "Data" folder or whichever folder you just pasted all of the files into, click on it, and click the OK button.

• When EstiMate opens up into that Database make sure all of your current data is there, and then try making a backup again.
  

 

 

 

4.6. The Clock has been rolled back error message.

Q:  When I open EstiMate I get a message that says "It appears the clock has been rolled back on your PC, invalidating your temporary license.  Please contact EstiMate technical support for further assistance."  What can I do to fix this?

 

A:  The first thing to do is make sure your computer clock is now set to the correct date and time.  After checking the date and time (and adjusting it to the correct date and time if need be) try running EstiMate again, and the issue should be resolved.

If you continue to see this error message after you have set the date and time correctly you can download a new license file to fix this issue.  To download a new license file from the EstiMate connection screen first click OK on the error message.  Next click the "blue" EstiMate icon in the upper left, and select "Download New License File" (you must be connected to the internet).  After a few seconds you should receive a message saying that "The new license file has been downloaded.  Restart EstiMate to activate any new features."  Restart EstiMate and the issue should be resolved.

 

If the solutions above do not resolve the issue you will need to contact EstiMate Technical Support for further assistance. 

If you are beyond your initial 60 days of free support you will need to purchase a "Support Incident" for assistance with this issue.

4.7. Access Violations

Q:  I get an Access Violation error when trying to use EstiMate 2.  What can I do to resolve this issue?

 

A:  Access Violations are a common Windows error which can have a variety of meanings.  Below are some possible solutions.

 

 

• Reboot the computer.  The issue should be resolved.  Try this first, as this resolves the error in most cases. 

4.8. I'm getting an error message that says "Failed to connect to licensing server" when trying to register my copy of EstiMate.

Q:  I'm am trying to register my copy of EstiMate, but when I click the next button after entering my serial number it says "Failed to connect to licensing server".  How can I complete the registration of my software?

 

A:  Registration is one of the few times that EstiMate needs to have access to the internet.  It is important that the computer you are registering from is connected to the internet during that time. 

 

Here are some steps to try and troubleshoot the issue:

• If you have internet access at that computer please verify that it is working properly (try going to Google, and searching for something).
  

• Make sure you have entered your serial number and verify that it is correct.  (The letter "O" does not exist in any serial number, so make sure you've typed a "zero" (0), and not an "O").
  

If you are still unable to proceed with the Registration after verifying that your internet connection is working on that computer then please contact EstiMate Software by e-mail to: customerservice@estimatesoftware.com or by phone: 1-888-304-3300.

 

We will then e-mail you a copy of your EstiMate 2 license file.  To enable your license file you simply need to save the license file to the Desktop of the computer you are trying to register EstiMate 2 on, and then restart EstiMate.  When EstiMate reopens it will *absorb* your license file and place it in the correct folder.  This will allow you to bypass the registration process and you will then be able to connect to your database or Multi-User Server. 

 

 

 

4.9. Error: Duplicate Index Value

Q:  I just updated to the latest build and now when I click on New EstiMate I get an error message that says "Duplicate Index Value".  How can I fix this?

 

A:  This error means that somewhere in your database you have a duplicate entry.  It might be a material, tax, or a customer.  EstiMate 2 should not allow you to create duplicate entries, but it's possible that it happened in an earlier build of the software or possibly in your EstiMate 1 software.  EstiMate 2 now has a feature called the EstiMate Health Check which will allow you to make a backup of your data and then find and rename the duplicate entry. 

 

Here are the instructions for using the EstiMate Health Check utility:

• To use this utility you must be in single user mode.  To switch to single user mode click the EstiMate icon in the upper left and select "Switch to Single User Mode".

• Once you are in Single User Mode hold down the "Shift" key on your computer keyboard and again click on the EstiMate icon in the upper left.

• You will now see an option at the bottom of this menu called EstiMate Health Check.  Click on this option and the EstiMate Health Check window will appear.

• If you do not have a current backup of your data then you will want to make one here before you run the check.

• Click the "Backup Now" button on this screen and then when the Backup/Restore window comes up click the "Backup" button on that screen.

• Choose where you would like to save the file (e.g. Desktop, My Documents), give the backup a filename, and then click Save.

• Once your data is backed up you can click close on the Backup/Restore window.

• Now that you've made a backup you can click the "Click Here To Preform This Repair" button under the Duplicate Index Value Repair Tool tab.
  

• The utility will now run and it will show you the status of what it finds.  Any duplicates that it finds will get the number "2" added to the end of the name.  If you have lots of duplicates you can copy the text from this window and paste it into a document for future reference.

• Now that the tool has found and renamed the duplicates (remember the duplicates have the number 2 at the end of their name) you can change those items in you jobs and estimates to the original entry (i.e. name, material, etc).  You don't have to do this all at once, but if you want to delete the duplicates from the system you'll want to make sure you've changed them all back to the original first.

4.10. I'm getting an error message while trying to import my 1.98 data that says "Table does not exist".

Q:  I'm trying to import my data from 1.98 into the new version, but I keep getting an error message that says "Table does not exist".  The import then stops and EstiMate says it needs to be restarted.  What "Table" is missing, and how do I fix it so I can import my data?

 

A:  Depending on which version of EstiMate 1 you started with and/or which plugins you have enabled you may be missing some database tables from you EstiMate 1 Data folder.  During the import process EstiMate 2 looks for these known tables, but if it doesn't find them it aborts the import.  The error message you see in EstiMate 2 will also indicate wich tables are missing.  It will look something like this:

"Table does not exist: C:\Program Files\EstiMate\Data\Threads.db".

The solution is fairly straight forward, you simply need to add the missing files to your current EstiMate 1 Data folder. The most common missing files are the "Threads" database tables if you started with a very early version of EstiMate or you never had the Embroidery plugin enabled.

We have made these files available on this page for you to download and place in your EstiMate 1 Data folder.

To download the files:

• Click on the link to each file, and if your web browser will allow it you can save them directly to your EstiMate 1 Data folder.  If your web browser just saves them to the Desktop then you can copy and paste them or drag and drop them into the EstiMate 1 Data folder after you've finished downloading all of them.

(By default your EstiMate 1 data folder is located at "C:\Program Files\EstiMate\Data", but if you moved it so it could be shared on your network, or just because you wanted it in a different location then you will need to locate the folder and save the files there.  If you are unsure where you data folder is located you can open EstiMate 1 and click File > Network Setup and you will see the path to your current data folder).

After you have inserted the missing files you can open EstiMate 2 and try the import again.

 

4.11. Error: Windows cannot access the specified device, path, or file.

Q:  I'm getting an error message when trying to load the EstiMate Multi-User Server that says:  "Windows cannot access the specified device, path, or file.  You may not have the appropriate permissions to access the item".

 

A:  This can be an issue if your database/folder is stored on a computer/drive other then the one the Multi-User Server is loaded on, and that computer/drive is not turned on, or otherwise not accessible.  You might also encounter this issue if you are not running the same version of EstiMate and the Multi-User Server.

 

To fix this issue:

 

1.  First make sure that you are running the same version of both EstiMate and the Multi-User Server (and that they are both updated to the latest version).  Here is the link to the updates page:

EstiMate Update Page

 

2.  Start the Multi-User Server, or double click on it's icon in the Systems Tray (by the computer clock) to launch it.  Click the "Stop Server" button, and then the "Settings" button.  Check the path to your Data, and if it's on another computer or drive make sure that computer/drive is on and accessible. 

 

3.  Make sure the attributes on your "Data" folder are not set to "Read Only".  Also make sure you are logged on as the "Admin" on the computer running the Multi-User Server.

 

After you have checked the items above click "OK" on the "Settings" screen (if you're still on that screen), and then click the "Start Server" button on the main Multi-User Server window.  If it starts up, and says "EstiMate Server Running" then go ahead and try to log in from one of your EstiMate stations, and the issues should be resolved.

 

If you still encounter this error message after checking the items above, reboot the computer/server running the EstiMate Multi-User Server, and then try starting it again.  If you continue to have issues please contact EstiMate Technical Support for further assistance.

4.12. Error: An attempt was made to access a socket in a way forbidden by its access permissions.

Q:  When I try to start the Multi-User Server I get an error that says:  "An attempt was made to access a socket in a way forbidden by its access permissions.  I can't start the Multi-User Server, how can I fix this?

 

A:  This is the result of too many incomplete outbound TCP connection attempts.  If a program tries to connect too many times to an IP address which is not valid then Windows will start to impose limits on the number of these connection attempts.  Here is an article from the Microsoft Knowledge Base which explains the issue in greater detail, and also provides a solution.

http://www.microsoft.com/products/ee/transform.aspx?ProdName=Windows%20Operating%20System&ProdVer=5.1.2600.2180&EvtID=4226&EvtSrc=Tcpip&LCID

 

An easier solution is to reboot the EstiMate Multi-User Server computer/server.  Once the computer/server is back up launch the Multi-User Server, and it should start right up, and you should be able to connect to it from EstiMate.

4.13. Error: Unsupported Graphic Stream Format

Q:  I'm trying to add a proof image to my estimate, but I keep getting an error "Unsupported Graphic Stream Format", and the image is not added.  How can I get my graphic added to the quote?

 

A:  The Unsupported Graphic Stream Format error means that you might trying to add an image to your quote or as your logo in EstiMate, and it's not one of the supported types.  If it is on of the supported types then there might be something preventing EstiMate from reading it (e.g. It's corrupted, has an unrecognized file extension, is being used, etc.).

 

The supported file/image types that EstiMate can handle are:

For Proof Images:

JPEG

BMP (Bitmaps)

WMF (Meta files)

 

For your Logo:

GIF

PNG (Portable Network Graphics)

JPEG

BMP (Bitmaps)

ICO (Icon files)

EMF (Enhanced Meta files)

WMF (Windows Meta files)

 

If you try to use a unsupported format you may encounter the "Unsupported Graphic Stream Format" error, but you may also end up with the image stuck in the program, and require technical support.

If you're adding a supported graphic and encounter this issue, try saving the file out of your graphics program again, or a different graphics program (e.g. if you saved it out of Photo Shop try saving it out of another program, even Windows Paint), and/or as a different file type.  Any of the supported types should work, but JPEGs are usually the best choice, and WMF, and EMF sometimes don't work so well.

4.14. Error: Incompatible Units

Q:  I'm getting an error message when using the Vehicle Wraps plugin that says "Incompatible Units".  How can I fix this?

 

A:  This may be more of a glitch then an issue, but may be the result of some input or selection you made just before the error occurred. 

 

Look at the selection you just made, and any other changes (to dimensions, units of measure, etc.).  If you had just selected an item make sure that the properties for that item are correct.  You can click on the "book" icon next to the selected item, and it will take you into the list for that "type" of item/material.  Double click on the item you had selected, and make sure that all of the properties (dimensions, units, etc.) are correct.

 

If you still encounter the error try selecting a different item to see if that was it, and then try re-selecting your original item.

 

If the error persists save what you're working on and then restart EstiMate (or the computer if you been having any computer related issues outside of EstiMate).

 

If this error occurs the very first time you run the Vehicle Wraps plugin it may also be that the plugin items weren't automatically created like they are supposed to be, and so your Vehicle list, and other associated lists are empty.  If this is the case please contact EstiMate support for further help.

5.1. Using the ODBC connector to extract data from the EstiMate data files

This tutorial illustrates how to use the ODBC connector to extract data from the EstiMate data files.

The ODBC connector can be found on your EstiMate 2.0 CD.  Due to licensing restrictions we are not allowed by the vendor to post this connector here for download, however, if you are using 2.0 please email us at CustomerService@PricingMadeEasy.com and we can send you a link to download it after verifying that you are licensed for EstiMate 2.0.

NOTE: You must be using the EstiMate Multi-User Server in order to use the ODBC connector.  It does not work with direct connections to EstiMate data folders. 

Some background information:

1. The database used by EstiMate 2.0 is called NexusDB.  Their website offers more information about the database, but in a nutshell, it is a very fast and stable client-server database system with a small footprint. 
2. The ODBC connector installs into Windows and allows you to use their database from any ODBC-enabled application, such as Microsoft Access or Microsoft Excel, and extract data from the Nexus database.
3. Many items in the 2.0 database are stored in XML format, and it may not look like the type of relational database you are used to working with.  One example is that primary keys are 32-character text strings rather than integers.

Disclaimer: we do not directly support the use of the ODBC connector **at all** beyond this document and you must use it at your own risk.  We strongly recommend that you back up your EstiMate 2 data files before using the ODBC connector, at least until you are comfortable with its operation and "know what you are doing."™

Installing the ODBC connector:

On your EstiMate 2.0 CD you will see an executable file called "NexusDB_V2_ODBC_buildXX.exe" (the build number will change, this does not matter).   See the initial paragraph in this article if you do not have an EstiMate 2.0 CD for how to get the installer from us.

Double click this installer, and click "next through the wizard to install the software.  Installing the ODBC connector is just like installing any other software.

Configuring the ODBC connector:

• In Windows, click Start > Run.
• Type "odbcad32.exe" (without the quotes) in the Run box and click OK.  This will bring up the Windows ODBC Data Source Administrator screen.   Alternatively, you can click Start > Control Panel > Administrative Tools > Data Sources (ODBC) to get to this screen.

 

• Click the "Add" button to add a new data source.
  
• Locate the entry that says "NexusDB V2 Driver" and click "Finish."

In the Server Settings screen, do the following:

• Enter "NexusDB" as the DSN name (this is just an example, you can name it what you like).
• Leave the Transport setting as TCP.
• Enter your server name in the Server Name box.  It will be: EstiMate Server@xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx (the ip address of the machine on which your EstiMate server is running).  If it is the same machine as the one you are installing the ODBC driver on you can enter "EstiMate Server@127.0.0.1" as the server name.
• Leave everything else as is, and click "Test Connection" to verify your connection to the EstiMate Server (Note: your multi-user server must be running for this to work).
  
• Once you have successfully tested the connection, click "Next."

 

On the next page of the wizard, do the following:

• From the Database Name drop down list, select "EstiMate."
• Click the "List Tables" button.  The grid should fill with the list of EstiMate database tables.
• Click "Finish" to save this connection. 

Now you will be back at the ODBC Data Source Administrator screen, and you should have a new connection called "NexusDB" (or whatever you chose to call it).

Using the NexusDB ODBC Connector: 

Now that you have the connector installed and configured, you can use it to extract data from the EstiMate 2 data files.  You can use Excel, Access, or any ODBC-enabled application to do this.  The example provided here uses the OpenOffice 'Base" database program which is an open source (read: free) alternative to Microsoft Access.

First, run OpenOffice Base and you will see the New Database wizard.

• Choose "Connect to existing database"
• Select "ODBC" as the connection type.
  
• Click "Next."

On the second page of the wizard:

• Enter the name of the ODBC connection you created (or browse for it).
• Click "Next" through both of the next pages and click "Finish" (no other settings need to be changed).
• When prompted to save your new database, give it a unique name such as "EstiMate ODBC Database" and save it.

Now you have direct access to the EstiMate 2 database from within the OpenOffice "Base" database.  The same basic principles will apply in Microsoft Access, Microsoft Excel, or any other application that makes use of ODBC database connections within Windows.

We STRONGLY recommend that you do not make ANY changes to the EstiMate 2 data files via the ODBC connector.  PLEASE NOTE that we do NOT support repairing your data files if they are damaged as a result of using the connector, and therefore you really ought to back up your data files before doing anything. ;-)

6.1. How is trimming / cutting calculated for the thermal and wide format printing plugins?

The thermal and wide format printing plugins charge for trimming and cutting as follows:

• They assume a base time of 15 minutes for a 4'x8' print (4608 square inches) at the "basic" setting.
• For the "Moderate" setting they assume 45 minutes
• For the "Difficult" setting they assume 1.5 hours
• For the "Very Difficult" setting they assume 2.25 hours

Then they calculate the time by multiplying the number of square inches in the job by the time per square inch based on the above list.

For example, if you have a 24"x48" print and set the trimming to "Moderate":

• Base Time = (45/4608) = .0098 minutes per square inch
• Print Area = 24x48 = 1152 square inches
• Calculated Trimming Time = .0098 x 1152 = 11.29 minutes.
  

7.1. Why are there separate lists for substrates and mounting substrates?

In Version 1, there was only one substrate list.  I see two in 2.0, one for "Substrates" and one for "Mounting Substrates."  Why?

In EstiMate 1.x the substrate list was shared between the vinyl plugins and the digital printing plugins.  In 2.0, they are separate.  The confusion arises when you import your 1.x data, because the substrate list is imported into both places and they appear to be the same.  However, they are two separate lists.

For vinyl plugins, to edit substrates, click:

Items >  Plugin Items > Substrates

For the digital printing plugins, to edit substrates, click:

Items > Plugin Items > Mounting Substrates

One very helpful feature in version 2 is the ability to drag and drop between lists, and this can be very helpful in setting up new substrates that you wish to appear in both lists.  For example, you can create a new vinyl sign substrate and then drag/drop it into the mounting substrates list, as long as both are open on your screen.

8.1. Failed to add invoice ? to QuickBooks: 108: Internal Error: Failure to parse float.

Q:  I'm getting an error when exporting some of my jobs to QuickBooks.  The error says "Internal Error: Failed to parse float.  What does this mean and how can I fix it?

A:  The reason for this error is that you have selected a "Tax" item from your list for one or more of your line items which has a rate of 0.0%.  It happens sometimes that customers create a tax item called "Non Tax", or "No Tax", or similar to show that the item is not taxed, and they give it a rate of 0.0% so that no tax is applied.  This is not the correct way to specify a non taxed item in EstiMate 2.  The correct way to have no tax applied to a line item is to "blank" out the tax field for that item (put your cursor in the "Sales Tax" filed, and delete anything that is there).

 

To fix this issue so that your jobs/estimates will export to QuickBooks without issue you will need to go back through the jobs/estimates that failed to go to QuickBooks due to this error, and remove from the Sales Tax field any "Non Tax" or Tax that has a 0.0% rate (just blank out the Sales Tax field.

 

If the whole job is to be "Non Tax" then you can simply check the "No Tax" box on the main job or estimate screen.

 

After you have corrected this issue in your jobs and estimate you can transfer them again, and they should export to QuickBooks without issue.

8.2. QuickBooks Link and Non-US Versions of QuickBooks

Is The QuickBooks Link Compatible With Non-US Versions Of QuickBooks?

Unfortunately not.  We have worked very hard to make the QuickBooks link compatible with the Canadian and UK versions of QuickBooks, but unfortunately there are several technical hurdles preventing that and we apologize to our international customers who have been waiting for this product.

Essentially, Intuit's SDK (Software Development Kit) - for the US - offers access to all versions of QuickBooks 2004 and later, with one easy integration method.  On the other hand, the international versions are very scattered and we have had limited success connecting with them.  It was our assumption that it would be as straightforward as integrating with the US edition that led us to announce compatibility with these editions in the future.

As a result, we are focusing on the US version of QuickBooks as we do not have the resources to maintain several different versions of the QuickBooks link for different international editions.

If the integration issues improve we will wholeheartedly embrace development for international platforms.

8.3. How do I set up the QuickBooks Link in EstiMate?

Note: At this time the QuickBooks link is only compatible with US versions of QuickBooks.  More information can be found by clicking here.

Q:  I've just installed QuickBooks and EstiMate on my computer, how do I set them up so I can send my jobs over to QuickBooks?

A:  Before you setup the QuickBooks link in EstiMate you should first have QuickBooks set up for the way you plan to work.  What is meant by this is that you first need to have some accounts and items set up in QuickBooks, so that you can associate that with what's in EstiMate.

 

The QuickBooks side: 

 

• In QuickBooks you should have at least one Income Account that reflects your sign sales.  For example you could have an Income Account called "Sign Income".

• Next you need to setup some items that you want the information from EstiMate to "funnel" into.  In the Items List in QuickBooks you will need to create a new "Non-Inventory Part", and give it a name.  The name can just be something that reflects the plugin that will be used to create the item in EstiMate.  For example if most of the work you do in EstiMate is done in the Wide Format plugin then in QuickBooks you could name this new item "Digital Printing".  If you also apply vinyl to signs then you may want to create a separate item in QuickBooks called "Vinyl Signs".  You can continue to create items for any other types of work you do that you wish to separate like Screen Printing, Dimensional Items, Retail Items, and maybe even a Miscellaneous Items.  The only fields that need to be complete on the "New Item" screen in QuickBooks are the "Type" (Non-Inventory Part), the "Item Name/Number" (e.g. Digital Printing), and the "Account" (e.g. Sign Income)

• You will then also need to create a new "Sales Tax Item" if you don't already have one in QuickBooks.  This is the item you will be associated with the sales tax in EstiMate.  The fields that need to be set up in this item window are Type (Sales Tax Item), Tax Name (e.g. NC State Sales Tax), Tax Rate (%), and the Tax Agency (e.g. Department of Revenue).

The EstiMate Side:

 
Now that you've set everything up in QuickBooks it's time to associate these items with the items in EstiMate.

 

To Begin:

• Click on the Configure And Manage tab > QuickBooks Link > Configuer QuickBooks Link.

• Confirm that QuickBooks is running and that the company file is open by clicking the checkbox, and the the "Next" button.

• EstiMate will connect to QuickBooks.  You may be asked if you want to allow EstiMate (Unknown Application) to connect to your QuickBooks company file - Just click "Yes, Always".

• Once EstiMate has connected to QuickBooks you will see the "Map EstiMate Items with QuickBooks Items" screen.  This is where you will select from the items you just created in QuickBooks and match them to the correct plugins, or sales tax, or other items in EstiMate.

• On this screen there are two sections.  The one on the left; "EstiMate Items" is all of your materials.  This section is considered *optional*, and you only need to select items from here if you wish to track them in QuickBooks.  More information about this section can be found in the help files by pressing F1.

• The section on the right "Created Associations" is what we will focus on setting up here, so you can export your jobs to QuickBooks after this is complete. 

• The first thing you'll see here is the "Default Association" - click the "+" sign to the left of it.  You will see that to the right of "Default Association" it says [USE DEFAULT].  To change this click twice on the words [USE DEFAULT] and a drop down menu will appear with all of the items you created in QuickBooks.  For this particular item you will want to select something general (e.g. Signs, Miscellaneous) as this association will be used for any items you leave [USE DEFAULT] selected.

• The next section is "Discounts".  If you have any discounts setup in EstiMate then you may want to create an item in QuickBooks called Discounts (the type is also Discount) and also associate that with the account called Discounts (which is an Income account) in QuickBooks. 

• Next is Pricing Plugins.  This is where you will select the items from QuickBooks you want to associate with each plugin.  Like in the example above you would associate Wide Fromat Inkjet with Digital Prints, and Vinyl and Painted Sings with Vinyl Sings.  You may also wish to "lump" Window Graphics, and Ready To Apply Graphics under Vinyl Signs.  You can associate and item from QuickBooks with as many EstiMate items as you want - you don't have to have a separate QuickBooks item from each item in EstiMate.  You also don't need to worry about associating any of the plugins you don't intend to use.

• The last step is the sales tax.  Select the "Sales Tax Item" you created in QuickBooks for your Sales Tax in EstiMate.  If you have more then one sales tax in EstiMate it's usually a good idea to have more then one "Sales Tax Item" in QuickBooks.

• After you have finished setting up all of the items you can click the "Next" button.  You will now see an Additional Settings screen which just asks you if you want to use the QuickBooks numbers or EstiMate numbers.  If you want to use the numbering sequence from QuickBooks for all invoices sent to QuickBooks leave the box un-checked.  If you want to use the invoice numbers from EstiMate check the box and you can also choose to add a prefix to the numbers (EMT = EstiMate). 

8.4. I am having trouble connecting to QuickBooks. What do I need to set up to make it work?

Q:  I am trying to set up the QuickBooks Link, but when EstiMate tries to connect to it I get an error message that says "Failed to connect to running instance of QuickBooks.  Check to see that no dialog boxes are open in QuickBooks and try again".  There are no open dialog boxes, and QuickBooks and my company file are open.  How can I get this to work?

 

A:  There are only a few basic requirements that need to be met in order to use the QuickBooks Link, but it is important that you have these things set correctly otherwise the link will fail.

 

Here is a list of the basic requirements needed to connect to QuickBooks:

• A somewhat up to date copy of QuickBooks Pro or Premier.  Anything less then 2002 will not work.  We strongly recommend 2004 or greater.
  

• QuickBooks and EstiMate must be installed on the same machine.

• QuickBooks must be running, and the company file must be open.

• QuickBooks must be in Single User Mode. 

• You must be logged into QuickBooks as the Admin or with Administrative privileges.
  

• Make sure there are no dialog boxes open in QuickBooks.  It's fine if the Company Navigator or Chart of Accounts are open.

 

As long as you have met all of these requirements you shouldn't have any problems connecting to QuickBooks from EstiMate.  If you have made sure all of these settings are correct, but you are still having issues please contact us for further assistance.

8.5. Exactly what information gets exported from EstiMate to QuickBooks?

Q:  I'm considering buying the QuickBooks Link, but I'm wondering what information is transfered from EstiMate to QuickBooks?

 

A:  The main function of the QuickBooks link is to allow you to export your jobs and estimates to QuickBooks as invoices that you can bill the customer with and then receive payment for.  You can also export your Customer List from EstiMate to QuickBooks and vice versa.

 

• When you send an estimate or job to QuickBooks as an invoice you'll see it looks very similar to an invoice in EstiMate.  You will see the customer's information (name and address) under the Bill To and Ship To fields. 

• The date, and invoice number (you can choose to send your own (EstiMate's) numbers or use QuickBooks numbers)
  

• If you supplied a Customer PO on the job or estimate it will appear in the PO # field of the invoice. 

• All of your line items and their descriptions, quantities, price each, amount, and tax status will show up on the invoice. 

• The tax item, tax amount, and total due.

Some things that do not get sent to QuikBooks on the invoice are the Terms, Salesperson/Rep, and the main Description from the job or estimate.

You can also send you jobs/estimates to QuickBooks as Estimates or Sales Receipts.

 

When you export you Customer list from EstiMate to QuickBooks the fields that get exported are:

• Company Name

• Contact Person

• Address, City, State, and Zip (billing and shipping if supplied)

• Phone, Fax, and Alt. Phone

• Email address

8.6. QuickBooks Export Seems Very Slow?

When exporting transactions to QuickBooks, it seems to hang between selecting the transactions I want to export and assigning the customers to the transactions.  What's up?

This is due to the time required to pull over the QuickBooks customer list from QuickBooks into EstiMate. Unfortunately our hands are tied at the moment to speed this up; however, be patient and the list will come over.  On our development system (P4 3 GHz with 2 GB RAM) 4,500 customers takes about 4 minutes total.  This should scale to your customer list so you can approximate the time that will be required.

We are definitely looking into ways to speed this up but haven't found a good way yet.  This article will be updated when we do.

8.7. I'm getting error messages when trying to export transactions to QuickBooks.

Q:  I'm getting an error message when I try to export my transactions to QuickBooks.  The error message says:

"Failed to add customer Customer Name to QuickBooks: 511: The QBRequestId has been used previously for another request. Please use a different Id." 

Followed by:

"Failed to add invoice 731 to QuickBooks: 808: There is an invalid reference to QuickBooks Customer "Customer Name" in the Invoice.  QuickBooks error message: The specified name is either invalid or of the wrong type."

What can I do to get my transactions to export correctly?

 

A:  When you get an error message that has the numbers 511 and 808 and/or that says "The QBRequestId has been used previously for another request" then the problem is that QuickBooks is trying to use the same "Token" it used for your last/previous export.  The solution can be 1 of 2 things - 1.  You can restart both QuickBooks and EstiMate and then try the export again, or 2.  If that doesn't fix it then reboot your computer and that will correct the problem.

8.8. QuickBooks error message: You cannot use the same tax item in both the line items and the txn tax

Q:  I am getting an error message while trying to export my transactions to QuickBooks that says "You cannot use the same tax item in both the line items and the txn tax".  This is causing most of my transactions to fail, and not show up in QuickBooks.  What can I do to fix this?

 

A:  This seems to be an issue with QuickBooks rather then EstiMate.  This issue is similar to the one caused by exporting transactions from QuickBooks POS to QuickBooks.  It seems to currently only affect our customers who are running QuickBooks 2008 R5 (Release 5).  Here is the link to the QuickBooks support page for this issue.  The article outlines a couple of fixes that should help you correct the issue.

 

http://support.quickbooks.intuit.com/support/Pages/KnowledgeBaseArticle/9ce87907

8.9. Taxes not being applied to jobs sent from EstiMate to QuickBooks

Q:  I have sales taxes applied to my jobs in EstiMate, but when I export them to QuickBooks they don't have any sales tax applied to the invoice.  How can I get the sales taxes to show up in QuickBooks on jobs sent from EstiMate?

 

A:  The answer is usually a simple one.  The items you have in your QuickBooks "Items List" which are associated with EstiMate Items are most likely set to "Non" (Non-Taxable that is).  The QuickBooks setting will override the tax information being sent with the job(s) from EstiMate.  You would also encounter this issue (in the reverse) if you send a job from EstiMate that is not taxable, or has non taxable line items, but the associated item(s) in QuickBooks are set to Taxable.

 

To correct this issue:

 

1.  You may need to open the "Configure QuickBooks Link" window ("Configure And Manage" > "QuickBooks Link" > "Configure QuickBooks Link"), if you don't remember which EstiMate Items, are associated with which QuickBooks Items.

2.  Once you determined the associations go into QuickBooks, and open the Items List ("Lists" > "Items List").

3.  In the Items List find the associated item(s), and double click on them to view their properties sheet.

4.  At the bottom right of the properties sheet you will see a section called "Tax Code".

5.  If it's set to "Non" that is why your jobs didn't show any tax once they had been exported to QuickBooks.

6.  Set the Tax Code field to the appropriate setting (i.e. Tax, or Non), and click the "OK" button.

7.  Repeat the above steps for any other associated items which may be set to the wrong Tax Code.

 

You will need to go back through your QuickBooks Invoices that came from EstiMate, manually add the tax, and record the changes if you haven't already done so.

9.1. I can't e-mail a quote out of EstiMate.

Q:  I'm trying to e-mail a quote out of EstiMate, but when I click the Email button in EstiMate nothing happens.  What do I need to do to get EstiMate to e-mail my quote?

 

A:  The first thing to be aware of is that EstiMate will only work with "stand-alone" e-mail clients like Microsoft Outlook, Outlook Express, Mozilla Thunderbird, Eudora, Sea Monkey, etc..  It will not work with web mail like Yahoo, Hotmail, or Gmail (unless you have configured one of the above "stand-alone" clients to retrieve e-mail from one of these services using POP or IMAP). 

There are a few possible reasons why EstiMate might not launch your e-mail client.  These reasons, and the solutions can vary slightly depending on which e-mail client you are using. 

The first thing to do is check and see if the e-mail client you want to use is set as the default e-mail client under Windows.

To check/change the default e-mail client:

• Click Start > Control Panel > Internet Options, and then click the "Programs" tab.

• Under the "Internet Programs" section make sure "E-mail" is set to the e-mail client you want to use.

• If you made any changes to the "E-mail" field click "Apply", and "OK".

• Restart EstiMate, and try e-mailing your quote again.

This will normally solve the problem if you needed to switch the default from something like AOL, Hotmail, or MSN to Office Outlook, or Outlook Express.  If your e-mail client is Thunderbird or Sea Monkey then it is usually more effective if you make the change directly from the e-mail client. 

To set Mozilla Thunderbird as the default e-mail client: 

• Open Thunderbird, and click Tools > Options. 

• In the Options window click on the General tab, and under System Settings check the box that says "Always check to see if Thunderbird is the default mail client on startup".

• Click the "Check Now" button, make sure the "E-Mail" box is checked, and click "OK".

• Restart EstiMate, and try e-mailing your quote again.

These directions should also work for Sea Monkey. 

 

If you are still unable to e-mail a quote then it is possible you may be missing a key value in the Windows Registry.  This key is for a protocol called MAPI.  MAPI stands for Messaging Application Programming Interface, and is what allows EstiMate to "talk" to your e-mail client.

To check this follow the procedure below.  (NOTE:  There is one additional step for Windows 7 users).

**The following instructions may require you to make changes to the Windows registry. You should always use caution when editing the registry and never make changes other then those outlined in the instructions. User assumes all risk**

This procedure is to check and see if you have the use of MAPI (Messaging Application Programming Interface) enabled, and if not, how to enable it.

• Open the Windows registry. Start > Run > type "regedit" w/o the quotes.

• On the left click the "+" next to My Computer > HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE > Software > Microsoft, and then click on the folder called Windows Messaging Subsystem.

• After you've clicked on the Windows Messaging Subsystem folder look at the right side of the screen for an entry called MAPI. If you do not see an entry just called MAPI then this is most likely why you can not e-mail out of EstiMate.

• If MAPI is not there, click Edit > New > String Value. When the new string appears on the right side of the screen type in the name MAPI. Next double click on this string and change the value to 1, and click OK.

Additional:  Windows 7 users may also need to add a second String Value called "InstallCmd".

If you don't see InstallCmd then again click Edit > New > String Value.  When the new string appears on the right side of the screen type in the name InstallCmd.  Next double click on this string and type in (or copy it from here) the value "rundll32 setupapi,InstallHinfSection MSMAIL 132 msmail.inf" (w/o the quotes), and click OK.

• Close the registry editor.

• Restart EstiMate.

That's it. With this necessary string now in place you should be able to e-mail out of EstiMate.  If you are still unable to e-mail a quote then it's possible the e-mail client you are using does not support MAPI, and you may have to choose a different e-mail client.

9.2. Could not connect to network server.

Q:  I'm getting an error message every time I try to start EstiMate that says "Could not connect to network server.  Check if it is online and try again.  It is also possible that the server is built for an earlier version of EstiMate and needs to be updated, or you may need to open TCP port 16000 on the machine running the server.

 

A:  Normally this is just because the EstiMate Multi-User server is not running.

• To check to see if it's running look in the systems tray (by the computer clock).  You should see a networked computer icon with a blue or red dot on the screen (hovering over each icon with your cursor will show you the name of each application).  If you do not see the EstiMate Multi-User Server icon then you will need to launch the application.

 

 

 

 

To launch the EstiMate Multi-User Server:

• Click the Windows Start button > All Programs > EstiMate Multi-User Server > EstiMate Multi-User Server.

• The application will launch, and will be in the "running" state.  Depending on the options selected in the Multi-User Server settings the application may start "minimized" and go directly to the systems tray.

• If a window pops up showing "EstiMate Server (Running) then you can click the "X" in the upper right corner to send it to the systems tray.

• If you see the Multi-User Server in the systems tray, but it has a "red" dot on it right click on the icon and select "Start Server". 

 

Connecting to the Multi-User Server from EstiMate:

• Now that the Multi-User Server is running you should be able to connect to it from EstiMate.  If EstiMate is not currently running then launch it now.  When EstiMate opens it will either connect automatically to the Multi-User Server (if this was the last thing it was connected to), or you will have to connect to it manually.

• If it connects automatically you should see (Multi-User Mode) displayed at the top of the screen when EstiMate opens. 

• If you have to connect to it manually then on the connect screen in EstiMate you should see a section called "Multi-User Server Connection".  At the top of this section you should see "EstiMate Server@"computer IP address" (e.g. 192.168.?.?) next to "Server to connect to".  If you do not see the IP address click the "Rescan Network" button.  You should now see the "EstiMate Server@192.168.?.?".  Click the "Connect to selected server" button, and EstiMate will connect to the Multi-User Server. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Note:  Even after you start the Multi-User Server EstiMate might start up in "Single User Mode" if the last database you opened was opened "locally". and not through the Multi-User Server.  If this happens simply click the EstiMate icon in the upper left, and select "Close Database".  Now you will be back at the "Connect" screen, and you can click "Connect to selected server" to get connected to the Multi-User Server.

9.3. How do I open TCP Port 16000?

Q:  I'm trying to connect a copy of EstiMate 2 to the EstiMate Multi-User Server, but I'm getting an error message "Could not connect to network server....  You may need to open TCP Port 16000".  How do I open TCP port 16000?

 

A:  Here are the instructions for opening TCP port 16000 on the computer running the EstiMate Multi-User Server (this is the only machine you need to open this port on).

 

• Click on your Windows "Start" button, and click on "Control Panel".

• When the Control Panel window opens click on (or double click on) "Windows Firewall".

• When the "Windows Firewall" window comes up under the "General" tab you will see if it's turned "On" or "Off".  If it's turned "Off" then this is not the cause of your connection issues in EstiMate.

• If it's turned "On" then click on the "Exceptions" tab at the top of the window, and make sure that "MultiUserServer" appears in the list and that there is a check mark next to it.

• Next click on the "Add Port" button.  When the Add Port window comes up enter "EstiMate Multi-User Server", or "EstiMate Server" (w/o the quotes) into the "Name" field, and then enter "16000" (that's sixteen thousand, and again w/o the quotes) into the "Port Number" field.  Leave "TCP" selected as the protocol, and click the "OK" button.

• Click the "OK" button on the Windows Firewall screen, and close the Control Panel.

You can now try connecting to the EstiMate Multi-User Server again from one of your copies of EstiMate 2 (just make sure the Multi-User Server is up and running (and only on one computer) before you do, as this is most commonly the issue when you encounter connection issue in EstiMate - the Multi-User Server just isn't running).

9.4. EstiMate says I'm in Single User Mode, but I'm running the Multi-User Server. How do I get back into Multi-User Mode?

Q:  EstiMate says I'm in Single User Mode, but I'm running the Multi-User Server.  How do I get back into Multi-User Mode? 

 

A:  The first thing to do in this situation is make sure that the Multi-User Server has been started and is running in the systems tray (by the computer clock).

• To check to see if it's running look in the systems tray (by the computer clock).  You should see a networked computer icon with a blue or red dot on the screen (hovering over each icon with your cursor will show you the name of each application).  If you do not see the EstiMate Multi-User Server icon then you will need to launch the application.

 

 

 

 

To launch the EstiMate Multi-User Server:  *If the Multi-User Server is already running skip this step.

• Click the Windows Start button > All Programs > EstiMate Multi-User Server > EstiMate Multi-User Server.

• The application will launch, and will be in the "running" state.  Depending on the options selected in the Multi-User Server settings the application may start "minimized" and go directly to the systems tray.

• If a window pops up showing "EstiMate Server (Running) then you can click the "X" in the upper right corner to send it to the systems tray.

• If you see the Multi-User Server in the systems tray, but it has a "red" dot on it right click on the icon and select "Start Server".
  

Now open EstiMate or bring it back to the front if it was already running.  To get EstiMate out of Single Use Mode and back in to Multi-User Mode:

• Click on the EstiMate icon in the upper left, and select "Close Database".   This will put you back on the EstiMate connection screen.

• In the middle of the connection toolbar you will see the EstiMate Multi-User Server Connection section.

• If you see "EstiMate Server@private ip address", click the "Connect to Selected Server" button right below it.

• If you don't see "EstiMate Server@....", click the "Rescan Network" button, and it should appear.

You should now be in Multi-User Mode. 

NOTE:  EstiMate will always default to the last database it was connected to.  Once you've connected to the Multi-User Server database from a copy of EstiMate *that* copy of EstiMate will continue to connect back to the Multi-User Server each time EstiMate is started.  If the Multi-User Server is not running you will get an error message in EstiMae telling you that it can't connect to the Multi-User Server.  If you get this message make sure the Multi-User Server is running.  DO NOT click "Connect to Local Folder" in an attempt to connect to the Multi-User Server or it's data otherwise you will be making changes in a local database and not in the main shared database.  Changes made locally cannot be merged with any other data.

 

9.5. Slow Networking when connected to the Multi-User Server

Q:  EstiMate seems to run very slowly when it's connected to the Multi-User Server.  Do I have too much data or do I have something set up wrong?  What can I do to fix this issue?

 

A:  The EstiMate Multi-User Server is used to allow simultaneous connections to your EstiMate data.  It is capable of handling many connections at once as well as large amounts of data, so slowness issues are not normal.  If you experience log waits while trying to connect to the Multi-User Server, and/or long delays while trying to open windows within the program it's possible that you are not running the most current versions of each component, or that something is interfering with the transfer of your data.

 

The first thing to do is to make sure you have the most updated version of the client and server.

• At the time of this writing the most current version of EstiMate is 2.0.0.391, and the most current version of the Multi-User Server is 2.0.0.382.

• Check to make sure both components of your software are up to date.  Here is the link to the EstiMate Software Updates page which will show the most current build numbers for both pieces of the software, as well as the links to download them.

• http://www.estimatesoftware.com/2.0/updates.php 

The next thing to do is to make sure another software application is not interfering with the connection between EstiMate and the Multi-User Server.

• We have found recently that some anti-virus software can affect the performance of the software in a Multi-User environment.

• Some anti-virus softwares known to cause an issue currently are CA Anti-Virus, and Trend Micro.

• If your software is up to date and you are still having "slowness" issues then please check to make sure your anti-virus software is not the cause of the problem by temporarily disabling it.

• Most anti-virus software can be disabled by right clicking on it's icon in the Systems Tray, and selecting "Temporarily Disable" or simply "Exit".

• If you also have your anti-virus software running on the machine that the Multi-User Server is installed on you will want to disable it there as well.

• If you are unsure how to disable your anti-virus software please refer to your software's internal help menu, or check the manufacturers website for more details.

• After making sure your anti-virus software is disabled or turned off try the connection from EstiMate to the Multi-User Server again.

• If the speed of the connection is better now then it is possible that your anti-virus software is configured too strictly. In most anti-virus software it is possible to create "exceptions" to the normal scanning routine in which you could simply add EstiMate, the Multi-User Server, and any of their folder to this list of exceptions, and this should correct the issue.

• We do not recommend running with your anti-virus disabled for much longer then it takes to conduct this test, and make any configuration changes to the anti-virus software, so remember to turn it back on afterward.
  

 

9.6. Where should I install the Multi-User Server?

Q:  Where should the Multi-User Server be installed?

 

A:  You can install the Multi-User Server on any server, workstation, or desktop computer that is connected to the rest of the network.  Which ever computer you decide to install the Multi-User Server on you'll wan't to keep in mind that it will need to be on, and logged into an account with the Multi-User Server running anytime someone needs to use EstiMate.  You may also want to install the Multi-User Server onto a computer that others have access to in case it needs to be started or restarted when you're not around.

 

You data will reside on the computer that the Multi-User Server is installed on by default.  You can if you need/want install the Multi-User Server on one computer, but have it connect to a database stored on another computer (e.g. server, external drive, NAS, etc).  To do that you would first install the Multi-User Server onto 1 of your computer.  Next you would open the Multi-User Server, stop it by clicking the "Stop Server" button, and then click the "Configure" button to change the path to your data.  Under "Data" you can now either type the new path to your data or click the browse folder to the right and navigate to your data (or to an empty folder if you just want to create a new database). 

9.7. Does my database have to be on the same computer as EstiMate or the Multi-User Server?

Q:  I've just installed EstiMate and it created a default database.  I would like for the database to be stored on my server computer where it will be backed up.  Can I put the database there or does my database have to be on the same computer as EstiMate?

 

A:  Your EstiMate database can be located anywhere on your local network.  It does not have to be on the same machine as EstiMate or the  Multi-User Server, and can even be located on an external drive, or NAS.  The only thing you need to do to start a new database on a separate computer or drive is to create a new folder there, and then connect to it.

 

To begin:

• Close the database you are currently in (EstiMate icon > Close Database).

• From the Connect toolbar click "Connect To Local Folder" button.

• The Select Folder For Database window will appear.  Navigate to the location where you want your database to be to created.

• When you get there click directly on the folder you want to connect to.  If you would like to add a new folder at this location for you EstiMate database click the "Create New Folder" button at the top of this window.  Give the new folder a name and press Enter.

• Now click directly on the folder you want the database to be created in, and click the "OK" button.

• EstiMate will connect to that folder.  If there are no database files in that folder EstiMate will tell you that, and ask if you would like to create a database there.  Click "Yes" to begin creating a new database.

• When EstiMate is finished creating the new database it will open right up into it.