Mobile frame getting started guide v5 0

Getting StartedVersion 5.0

This MobileFrame Getting Started Guide contains information and data that is proprietary and/or confidential to MobileFrame. The information

contained herein is protected by the Trade Secrets Act, as codif ied, and any improper use, distribution, or reproduction is specif ically prohibited.

No license of any kind w hatsoever is granted to any third party to use the information contained herein unless a w ritten agreement exists

betw een MobileFrame and the third party w ho desires access to the information. The information contained herein is only for the use of the

Customer. No other use of the information and data contained herein is permitted w ithout the express w ritten permission of MobileFrame. Under no

condition should the information contained herein be provided in any manner w hatsoever to any third party w ithout f irst receiving the express

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Table of Contents

Introduction 2

Installation Overview 3Installing MobileFrame 3System Requirements 5

Preparing your server 12

Installing the MobileFrame Server 14

Installing the MobileFrame Desktop 17

Installing / Creating the MobileFrame Database 19

Installing the Windows Client 20

Installing the Handheld Client 21

Installing the Thin Client Server 23

Uninstalling 26

Upgrading the MobileFrame Software 28

Upgrading from MobileFrame 4.x 30

Generated on 9/22/2011 at 11:32 AM by MobileFrame

Introduction

Getting Started With MobileFrame

Introducing the MobileFrame ComponentsBefore using MobileFrame you'll need to install it. This guide will help you understand the prerequisites, install options, and installation instructions for the various components that make up the MobileFrame Suite.

The MobileFrame ComponentsThe MobileFrame DatabaseThe MobileFrame database is the storage repository for the server-side of the system. It will hold all your apps, deployments, user accounts, security settings, preferences etc. When you back up your MobileFrame database you're effectively backing up the entire MobileFrame system. Depending on the product suite that you purchased, the Database Management System (DBMS) that you choose to host your MobileFrame database can be SQL Server, Oracle, or DB2.

The MobileFrame ServerThe MobileFrame Server contains four (4) components that work together to provide the server-side functionality. The MobileFrame Server will be installed on at least a single machine, but it can be installed multiple times and on multiple machines if desired. The components of each server can configured or deactivated to create any type of scalable environment you need.

The MobileFrame DesktopThe MobileFrame Desktop is the administrator's tool for the entire system. You will use the Desktop to create your database, register your servers, create your apps, manage your users, manage your devices and much more. It's your one stop shop for all administrative functionality.

The MobileFrame Thick ClientsThere are two thick clients available for end-users to use. One for Windows-based machines (Desktops, Laptops, Tablets etc) and one for WindowsCE-based handheld devices (PocketPCs, Windows Mobile, WinCE devices etc). The thick clients give users the means to run the apps you designated and support disconnected data storage so they're great for occassionally connected environments. Thick clients also supports integration to the device's hardware which gives your apps access to the hardware of the device so they can use things like barcode scanners, magnetic strip scanner, RFID scanners, cameras etc.

The MobileFrame Thin Client ServerThe MobileFrame Thin Client Server is an optional server that allows you to host your apps for access from mobile or desktop browsers. The apps support almost all the same functionality as the thick clients except for full hardware integration (which is minimally allowed by browsers) and disconnected data. The apps work against the server as their database. The Thin Client Server contains many options for scaling and configuring it's operation.

Generated on 9/22/2011 at 11:32 AM by MobileFrame 2

Overview

Installing MobileFrame

Installation BasicsAt a bare minimum, all MobileFrame installations will require that you:

Create a MobileFrame DatabaseInstall a MobileFrame ServerInstall the MobileFrame Desktop

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After that, you'll want to allow your users to access your apps so you'll either install the thick clients, Thin Client Server or both depending on your requirements.

Typical InstallationAlthough every installation is different, there is a general set of steps for a new install that will be followed:

Install the DBMS that will host your MobileFrame Database and get that up and running.Install the MobileFrame Server.Install the MobileFrame Desktop.Run the MobileFrame Desktop, and choose the Create New... option to create a new database from the initial login screen.Walk through the Database Creation Wizard to successfully install and license your database.Register your MobileFrame Server using the Server Registration Wizard.

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After that, you'll then install your client(s) of choice and begin using the system.

Tip: You can f ind w alkthrough videos of installing the MobileFrame system on our support site. If you'd like to w atch an installation all the w ay

through before doing your ow n, check out these videos.

Adding Additional ServersIf you've already created your database and licensed it, you can add additional servers by following these steps:

Install the server (MobileFrame Server or MobileFrame Thin Client Server).Go into the MobileFrame Desktop's Server Manager screen.Choose Register Server and follow the step in the Server Registration Wizard to add the new server to your installation.

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Frequently Asked QuestionsDoes the MobileFrame Server have to be installed on the same machine as the database?No. The database and server(s) can all reside on a single machine if desired. If you have a large installation or heavy processing requirements you may want to install the database and server(s) on separate machines so they both have full use of the machine hardware.

Can I install the server multiple times on the same machine? Are there any advantages?Yes you can but in most cases there really aren't any advantages since all the server instances will be sharing the same machine hardware. It can be useful in cases where you want to segregate the functionalities of the MobileFrame Server into separate IIS instances for potential scalability improvements. For the Thin Client Server it may be useful if you want to host what are in effect different websites from the same machine.

Do I need to install my MobileFrame Desktop on my server machine(s)?No. You can install the MobileFrame Desktop on any machine. As long as that machine it's installed on can connect to your MobileFrame database and your MobileFrame server(s), it can be used to administer the system.

Can I install on a virtual machine?Yes. MobileFrame works perfectly fine in a virtual environment.


System Requirements

This topic describes the system requirements for each component in the MobileFrame suite.

MobileFrame Database

Host Database Platform SQL Server 2000 and later

SQL Server Express (all versions)*

Oracle 9i and later

DB/2 9 and later

*SQL Server Express is only supported for use with the MobileFrame Pro product.

Processor General Recommendation:

Dual-core server-class processors

Minimum:

Single-core server-class processor

Please see the manufacturer's requirements for specific requirements needed to optimally run your database system.

Memory General Recommendation:2 Gigs RAM

Minimum:

1 Gig RAM

Please see the manufacturer's requirements for specific requirements needed to optimally

run your database system.

Storage General Recommendation:

200 Gigs free storage in RAID-1 configuration for data plus manufacturer's recommended

requirement*

Minimum:

10 Gigs free storage for data plus manufacturer's minimum requirement

*Your specific or anticipated data requirements may dictate more storage

Network General Recommendation:

1000 Mbps (Gigabit) network card*

Minimum:10/100 Mbps network card

*To achieve proper gigabit speeds CAT-6 rated network cabling is recommended

Note: These are the general requirements for the Database Management System (DBMS) chosen to host the MobileFrame Database. If you will be

hosting the database on the same machine as the MobileFrame Server components, the server requirements would need to be added to these.


MobileFrame Server

Supported Platform Any 32-bit or 64-bit Windows 2000 or later platform*

Recommended:

Windows 2003 Server or better

*Note that IIS must be supported on the chosen platform. Not all versions support IIS (Vista Home for

example). If in doubt, please confirm with Microsoft if your OS supports all the necessary software

requirements.

Processor Recommended:

Dual-core (or more) server-class processors*

Minimum:


*Actual number of processors and speed needed for optimal performance is dependent on amount of

processing power desired and predicted.

Memory General Recommendation:

2 Gigs RAM*

Minimum:

1 Gig RAM*

*Actual memory needed for optimal performance is dependent on number of expected concurrent users,

frequency of sync, quantity of data/synced/integrated, complexity of back-end workflow, and other factors.


100 Gigs storage*

Minimum:

2 Gigs storage*

*Actual amount of storage needed is dependent on quantity and type of data being stored as well as

archiving policies and preferences.

Network Recommended:


Minimum:

10/100 Mbps network card


Software Prerequisites Required:

Internet Information Services (IIS) must be enabled

.NET Framework 2.0*

SQLCE 3.5 SP2*

Any Windows Service Packs / Updates

Server certificates if planning on communicating over HTTPS

Network access to help.mobileframe.com is required to use the GPS Tracking features as part of

server-side processing.

Appropriate permissions and/or software is required to use the Send Email or Active Directory

Authentication features.

Any third-party database or data source drivers necessary for workflow processing.

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*These components wil l be installed automatically if they're not installed already.

Note: Since the optimal server configuration is dependent on many requirements not within the control of MobileFrame, it is recommended that users

make a budget-friendly educated-guess when choosing hardware. If necessary, monitor performance and install additional memory and/or storage as

needed.


MobileFrame Desktop

Supported Platform Any 32-bit or 64-bit Windows 2000 or later platform

Recommended:

Windows 7 Professional or better


Intel Pentium Dual-Core 2.0 GHz or better

Minimum:

Single core Pentium 4 processor

Memory Recommended:

2 Gigs RAM for Vista or Windows 7 or 1 Gig RAM for XP

Minimum:

1 Gig RAM

Storage Recommended:

150 MB storage*

Minimum:

40 MB free storage*

* The test client database used during application testing will dictate the actual amount of needed storage.



Minimum:




.NET Framework 2.0*

SQLCE 3.5 SP2*


Network access to help.mobileframe.com is required to use the Online Help and/or GPS Tracking

features

Any third-party database or data source drivers.

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MobileFrame Windows Client

Supported Platform Any 32-bit or 64-bit Windows 2000 or later platform

Recommended:

Windows XP or better


Intel Pentium Dual-Core 1.6 GHz or better

Minimum:

Single core Pentium 4 processor

Memory Recommended:

1 Gigs RAM for Vista or Windows 7 or 512 MB RAM for XP

Minimum:

128 MB RAM


50 MB storage

Minimum:

25 MB free storage plus enough for anticipated database growth.

Network Minimum:

Any wired or wireless network*

*Faster and more reliable network technologies wil l yield better performance


.NET Framework 2.0*

SQLCE 3.5 SP2*


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MobileFrame Handheld Client

Supported Platforms Pocket PC 2003 Second Edition

Windows Mobile 5 or 6

Windows CE 4.2 or later

Recommended:Windows Mobile 6.1 or later

*Due to memory-related bugs in the Windows Mobile 6.0 operating system, MobileFrame recommends

Windows Mobile 6.1 or later. Certain graphic features are only available on Windows Mobile 5.0 or greater.

Processor The required processor minimum's for the platform chosen are acceptable.

Memory Recommended:

128 MB of program memory*

Minimum:

64 MB of program memory**

* Device should have 128 megs of program memory, not total memory

** While the MobileFrame Client wil l run in as little as 64 MB, the capabilities available and number of

applications you can run on the device will be limited. Careful consideration should be taken before limiting

the device to 64 MB.


1 Gig fast SDIO or other type of flash card

Minimum:

25 MB free storage plus enough to accomodate anticpated database growth

MobileFrame highly recommends using flash memory to compliment �MobileFrame s Worry Free technology.

High-quality fast cards that are tested to work properly in the expected working conditions is recommended.

Network Minimum:

Any wired or wireless network*

*Faster and more reliable network technologies wil l yield better performance


.NET Framework 2.0*

SQLCE 3.5 SP2*

Windows Vista/7/2008 users: Mobile Device Center must be installed on the host machine

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MobileFrame Thin Client Server

Supported Platform Any 32-bit or 64-bit Windows 2000 or later platform*

Recommended:

Windows 2008 Server or better

*Note that IIS must be supported on the chosen platform. Not all versions support IIS (Vista Home for

example). If in doubt, please confirm with Microsoft if your OS supports all the necessary software

requirements.


Dual-core (or more) server-class processors*

Minimum:


*Actual number of processors and speed needed for optimal performance is dependent on amount of

processing power desired and predicted.

Memory General Recommendation:

2 Gigs RAM*

Minimum:

1 Gig RAM*

*Actual memory needed for optimal performance is dependent on number of expected concurrent users,

complexity of workflow and other factors.


100 MB storage*

Minimum:

50 MB storage



Minimum:




MobileFrame Database and MobileFrame Server

Internet Information Services (IIS) must be enabled

.NET Framework 2.0*


Server certificates if planning on communicating over HTTPS

Network access to help.mobileframe.com is required to use the GPS Tracking features as part of

server-side processing.

Appropriate permissions and/or software is required to use the Send Email or Active Directory

Authentication features.

Any third-party database or data source drivers necessary for workflow processing.

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Web Browser Requirements

Browser Feature Requirements HTML 4.x or higher standards-compliant browser*

JavaScript

Support for HTTPS certificates (if being used)

Recommended:HTML 5.0 or higher standards-compliant browser.

*Due to differences in browser vendor implementations and opinions with regards to the HTML standards,

some features may not be available or may look and operate differently between browsers. In addition, some

features may not be available to non HTML5 compliant browsers.

Tested Browsers(See note below)

Internet Explorer 7 and 8*Google Chrome and Android Browsers

Firefox

Safari

Opera Mobile 10

*Compatibil ity view must be turned off. IE8 or better is recommended.

Please review the Thin Client Guide for recommendations and feature variations between browsers.

Note: MobileFrame recommends testing your applications with your browser(s) as vendors frequently update their browsers and new bugs may be

introduced. Multiple facil ities to redirect users using invalid browsers are provided.


Server Preparation

Preparing Your Server

The MobileFrame servers depend on IIS and ASP.NET to be in place. While the installers have been written to install and setup ASP.NET, we've found that in some cases the InstallShield product (or Windows) doesn't support proper installation. So, while not technically necessary, we recommend having it installed and ready to go for the best possible installation experience.

Internet Information Services (IIS)IIS is a Windows component that is used to host web sites and web applications. The MobileFrame servers are web applications that are hosted by IIS so it needs to be enabled on your server for the installation to proceed.

On Windows 2008, Windows 7 (Vista) you can enable this component as follows:

Go to Start->Control Panel and choose the Programs and Features option.On the left side, click the Turn Windows features on Or off option.After waiting, find the entry labeled Internet Information Services and ensure it is checked.Press OK and wait for Windows to enable the component.

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On Windows 2003, Windows XP you can enable this component as follows:

Go to Start->Settings->Control Panel and choose the Add / Remove Programs option.On the left side, click the Add/Remove Windows Components option.Windows 2003: After waiting, find the entry labeled Application Server and ensure it is checked.Windows XP: After waiting, find the entry labeled Internet Information Services (IIS) and ensure it is checked. Press OK and wait for Windows to enable the component.

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ASP.NETAll MobileFrame components require the .NET Framework 2.0. If you are using a 64-bit version of the OS, you should install the 64-bit version of the .NET Framework. If you are using a 32-bit version of the OS, you should install the 32-bit version. You can download the installers by searching Google for ".NET Framework 2.0 Service Pack 2" and clicking the topic for Download Details: Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0 Service Pack 2. If you are using a 64-bit machine, download and install the x64 version. If you are using a 32-bit machine, you want the x86 version.

Tip: You can confirm w hether you already have the .NET Framew ork 2.0 SP2 installed by checking your Control Panel->Add/Remove Programs

(XP,2003) or Control Panel->Programs and Features (Win7, 2008).

After installing the .NET Framework and suffering through any required reboots, you'll need to enable ASP.NET.

To enable ASP.NET on a 64-bit machine you'll need to go to the command line and enter:

%windir%\Microsoft.NET\Framework64\v2.0.50727\aspnet_regiis.exe /i -enable

To enable ASP.NET on a 32-bit machine you'll need to go to the command line and enter:

%windir%\Microsoft.NET\Framework\v2.0.50727\aspnet_regiis.exe /i -enable

Once installed successfully, it is recommended that you perform a Windows Update or Microsoft Update to check for any security updates or service packs and let Windows apply them. Once done, you should be ready for a successful installation of the server.


Installation

Installing The MobileFrame Server

The MobileFrame Server is the heart of the MobileFrame system. Every MobileFrame installation requires at least one MobileFrame Server to operate.

Before installing the MobileFrame Server, please review the Server Preparation topic to ensure a smooth installation. Also review System Requirements topic to ensure all requirements are met; pay close attention to the Software Prerequisites as these instructions assume all prerequisites are in place.

Installation ChecklistIn order to correctly and successfully install the MobileFrame Server all of these must be true:

IIS and ASP.NET are properly installed and working (see Preparing Your Server)All prerequisites must be in place and working correctly.You must be logged in as a user with administrative rights to the machine.All virus checkers, malware checkers, etc should be turned off temporarily as they will oftentimes interrupt the installation falsely.

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Step By Step1. Run the appropriate MobileFrame Server Setup for your operating system's IIS version. Due to differences between the versions of IIS running on the server, different installs had to be produced. If you are running IIS6 or lower run the MobileFrame Server Setup (IIS 6-).exe . Because of limitations of IIS6 and InstallShield you must run the 64-bit version of this setup if using IIS6 on a 64-bit OS (Windows 2003 x64).

If you are running IIS7 or higher (32 or 64 bit) run the MobileFrame Server Setup (IIS 7+).exe . If you have no clue what version you're running follow the instructions in the Frequently Asked Questions below.

Windows Vista / 7 / 2008 users: You should right-click on the setup program and choose the Run as Administrator option for best results.

2. If necessary, the installer will prompt you to install the .NET Framework 2.0 and/or the SQL CE SP2 engine. These are required components. Allow the installer to install them for you if it asks.

3. Choose the Service Name you wish to use. The Service Name is it's name inside IIS and how it will be accessed. If the MobileFrame Server will be used to synchronize to devices in the field, the default of MFSyncServer1 is recommended as it will be the default on all thick clients thus saving the users the trouble of changing it.

4. Choose Install from the wizard when prompted to create the IIS application that is the MobileFrame Server.

Important Information for IIS6 users: IIS6 requires that ASP.NET be "allow ed" and w hile our setup is w ritten to enable it during install, w e've

found that Microsoft's enabler can fail due to bugs in InstallShield/Window s Installer. After setup on an IIS6-based server, w e recommend opening

Internet Information Services, clicking on Web Service Extensions on the left, and ensuring that the ASP.NET v2.0.50727 entry is show ing as

Allowed. If it is not, please click on the entry and press the Allow button or the server w ill not be allow ed to run.

Once completed, your server should be available but not operational since you haven't registered it with the MobileFrame Database yet. You can confirm that the MobileFrame Server is running by navigating to it's status page by way of any browser. The URL would be:

http://[MACHINENAME]/MFSyncServer1/status.html

Replace [MACHINENAME] with the name of the machine you installed the server on (or you can use localhost if on the same machine). If you changed the service name replace MFSyncServer1 with the name you chose. You should see a rudimentary status page come up. If you get any errors, particularly from IIS, something is wrong.

First StepsOnce installed, your MobileFrame Server is worthless until it is registered to a MobileFrame Database. You'll use the MobileFrame Desktop to not only create this database if you don't have one, but also to register servers to it.


Frequently Asked QuestionsHow do I know what version of IIS I'm using?If you're running Windows Vista, 7, 2008 or beyond, you're using Internet Information Services 7+Any other OS is using IIS 6-If you want to confirm for sure you can run Internet Information Services (IIS) on your system from Administrator Tools. Once it comes up choose Help->About Internet Information Services. Read the screen carefully to find the version of Internet Information Services. Microsoft has made this About Box confusing by putting the version number of the OS in it as well.

Can I choose the installation directory?No. The installation directory is Program Files\MobileFrame\MobileFrame Server. You can copy this directory elsewhere if desired but you must manually point the IIS application to the new directory.

I'm having problems!If the error messages don't give you a clue as to what's going on contact MobileFrame Support. There are infinite IT issues that could cause a failed installation. MobileFrame Support can help explore what's happening. Worst case, they can walk you through installing the server manually.


Installation

Installing The MobileFrame Desktop

The MobileFrame Desktop is the administration tool for your entire MobileFrame system. You can install it as many times as you want but to work properly it must be able to connect to your MobileFrame database and your MobileFrame server(s).

Before installing the MobileFrame Desktop, please review the System Requirements topic to ensure a smooth installation.

Step By Step1. Run the MobileFrame Desktop Setup.exe on the computer in which you wish to install the MobileFrame Desktop.

Windows Vista / 7 /2008 users: You should right-click on the setup program and choose the Run as Administrator option for best results.


3. Follow through the installer wizard steps to install to the Program Files\MobileFrame\MobileFrame Desktopdirectory. In order to simplify the installation process, the installer has been created without prompts for the install

location. You are welcome to move the entire MobileFrame Desktop directory somewhere else if desired.

First StepsOnce installed, you'll want to run the Desktop by double-clicking on it. You will be prompted to log in to your MobileFrame Database.

Windows Vista / 7 /2008 users: You should right-click on the MobileFrame Desktop.exe program and choose the Run as Administrator option

for best results. You can thank Microsoft for this delightful piece of usability.

If you haven't created your MobileFrame database review the topic on Installing The Database .

If you already have a MobileFrame database, enter the connection information to the database and log in with your administrator login. If you're new to MobileFrame you can review the Online Help or download the User Guide via the Help menu.

Tip: If running the Desktop on a server OS or a w orkstation OS older than Window s 7, you may need to reboot for your OS to acknow ledge the

Segoe UI font now used by the MobileFrame Desktop. If not recognized, the OS w ill substitute a different font w hich w ill not look the best. Also,

consider turning on font smoothing and using the Clear Type method for smoothing for best results.


Frequently Asked QuestionsCan I choose the installation directory?You are welcome to copy the MobileFrame Desktop directory elsewhere after installation but in order to streamline the installation process the options to alter the install path have been defaulted to your Program Files\MobileFrame\MobileFrame Desktop directory.

The MobileFrame Desktop does nothing outside of its own directory (no registry access for example).

The fonts in the MobileFrame Desktop look awful or are hard to read. How do I fix that?The Segoe UI font now used by the MobileFrame Desktop provides a much easier to read and more modern font- particularly when used on LCD/flat monitors. On newer systems Microsoft uses this font as the default system font so it should already be set up properly. On older systems however, the font may not be looking its best until you turn on the proper font options. Naturally the process to do this is completely different depending on which OS you are running on:

Windows XP, 2003: Right-click on your Windows desktop, and choose Properties. Select the Appearance tab. Press the Effects... button. Check the Use the following method to smooth edges of screen fontscheckbox and choose ClearType for the best results with Segoe UI.

Windows 2008, Vista, 7: Choose Control Panel->Display. Click the Adjust ClearType text option on the left. Make sure ClearType is turned on and follow the wizard to tune it for your eyeballs.


Installation

Creating The MobileFrame Database

The MobileFrame Database is the central storage repository for the entire system. In order to create the database you must first install your Database Management System and ensure it's working properly. Please review the installation instructions for your DBMS of choice.

Once installed, you need to ensure you can connect to the database from the machine where you will be performing the installation. It doesn't have to be the same machine.

After that, you'll need to install the MobileFrame Desktop as it's the tool that will create the database and license it for you.

Step by Step1. Run the MobileFrame Desktop

2. Press the Database >> button to open the database connection information if it's not already open.

3. Press the Create New... button to launch the Database Creation Wizard.

4. Follow the steps in the Database Creation Wizard. It will create your database for you, license it, and log you in to your brand-spanking new database.

Tip: You can review the help in the Database Create Wizard if you get stuck on any section by press the Help button.

First StepsAfter creating a brand new database the MobileFrame Desktop will ask you if you want to register any servers. You do. You can find information on registering your server(s) in the Online Help or the User Guide.

Frequently Asked QuestionsCan I recreate the database?You can but the wizard will warn you if it senses an existing MobileFrame database. Obviously recreating the database wipes all data that's in it.

Can I create another database?You can, but you'll need another license to register it with. Contact MobileFrame Sales if you'd like to purchase additional licenses to create distinct segregated MobileFrame installations (multiple databases). It's not uncommon to have a test environment and production environment.


Installation

Installing the MobileFrame Windows Client

The MobileFrame Windows Client is the Windows version of the MobileFrame Client. The MobileFrame Client is used in the field by mobile workers to run the apps you've created.

Before installing the MobileFrame Windows Client, please review the System Requirements topic to ensure a smooth installation.

Step By Step1. Run the MobileFrame Windows Client Setup.exe on the Windows-based computer in which you wish to install the MobileFrame Client.

Windows Vista or Windows 7 users: You should right-click on the setup program and choose the Run as Administrator option for best

results.


3. Follow through the installer wizard steps to install to the Program Files\MobileFrame\MobileFrame Windows Client directory. In order to simplify the installation process, the installer has been created without prompts for the install location. You are welcome to move the entire MobileFrame Windows Client directory somewhere else if desired.

First StepsOnce installed, you'll want to run it and log in to your server to ensure it's connecting properly. If it's not the computer may have network monitoring software (zone alarm for example) that is blocking communication or a firewalling issue.

Frequently Asked QuestionsCan I choose the installation directory?You are welcome to copy the MobileFrame Windows Client directory elsewhere after installation but in order to streamline the installation process the options to alter the install path have been defaulted to your Program Files\MobileFrame\MobileFrame Windows Client directory.

The MobileFrame Windows Client does nothing outside of it's own directory (no registry access for example).

Can I install once and ghost the same install to multiple machinesYes you can but you need to ensure you do it such that the MobileFrame device identifier remains unique for each device. Please see the Knowledge Base article on ghosting to ensure you ghost MobileFrame correctly.


Installation

Installing The MobileFrame Handheld Client

The MobileFrame Handheld Client is the WinCE-based version of the MobileFrame Client. The MobileFrame Client is used in the field by mobile workers to run the apps you've created.

Before installing the MobileFrame Handheld Client, please review the System Requirements topic to ensure a smooth installation.

Step By Step1. Dock your handheld via the USB cradle provided by the manufacturer and set it up for communication to your machine.

2. Run the MobileFrame Handheld Client Setup.exe on the computer you've attached the device to.

Windows Vista or Windows 7 users: You should right-click on the setup program and choose the Run as Administrator option for best

results.

Also, due to bugs in InstallShield you must have the Window s Mobile Device Center components installed on your machine for the setup to extract

the f iles properly. Without these components the installer w ill appear to w ork, but no f iles w ill be installed.

3. Follow through the installer wizard steps to install to the Program Files\MobileFrame\MobileFrame Handheld Client directory on the device.

4. Look at the device and confirm any additional prompts required by the OS for the components.

5. Move the entire MobileFrame Handheld Directory (Program Files\MobileFrame\MobileFrame Handheld Client) to your storage card.

First StepsOnce installed, you'll want to run it and log in to your server to ensure it's connecting properly. If it's not, the server may have network monitoring software (zone alarm for example) that is blocking communication or a firewalling issue.


Frequently Asked QuestionsCan't I just install directly to the storage card?InstallShield's installer attempts to install all the component to the location entered. Unfortunately the .NET Compact Framework and SQLCE engines must be installed in the normal program storage location or they don't work properly. For this reason we recommend installing normally to the program memory (just accept all defaults) and then copy the MobileFrame directory only to the persistent storage.

I have like a zillion of these clients to install. I have to do this for all of them!?No. You can streamline the installation process if installing on a lot of units. Review the MobileFrame Knowledge Base for articles on the subject. There are several options available here. If attempting to copy or ghost images, please review our Knowledge Base for ghosting procedures.


Installation

Installing The MobileFrame Thin Client Server

The MobileFrame Thin Client Server acts as a web-based host for your MobileFrame apps. This allows your apps to run on any HTML4.x or HTML5.x compliant browser.

Before installing the MobileFrame Thin Client Server, please review the Server Preparation topic to ensure a smooth installation. Also review the System Requirements topic to ensure all requirements are met; pay close attention to the Software Prerequisites as these instructions assume all prerequisites are in place.

Installation ChecklistIn order to correctly and successfully install the MobileFrame Thin Client Server all of these must be true:

IIS and ASP.NET are properly installed and working (see Preparing Your Server)All prerequisites must be in place and working correctly.You must be logged in as a user with administrative rights to the machine.All virus checkers, malware checkers, etc should be turned off temporarily as they will oftentimes interrupt the installation falsely.

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Step By Step1. Run the appropriate MobileFrame Thin Client Server Setup for your operating system's IIS version. Due to differences between the versions of IIS running on the server, different installs had to be produced. If you are running IIS6 or lower run the MobileFrame Thin Client Server Setup (IIS 6-).exe . If you are running IIS6 on a 64-bit machine, use the MobileFrame Thin Client Server Setup (IIS 6-) 64-bit.exe .

If you are running IIS7 or higher (32 or 64 bit) run the MobileFrame Thin Client Server Setup (IIS 7+).exe . If you have no clue what version you're running follow the instructions in the Frequently Asked Questions below.

Windows Vista / 7 / 2008 users: You should right-click on the setup program and choose the Run as Administrator option for best results.

2. If necessary, the installer will prompt you to install the .NET Framework 2.0 engine. This is a required component. Allow the installer to install it if it asks.

3. Choose the Web Client Name you wish to use. The Web Client Name is this Thin Client Serversname inside IIS and how it will be accessed. The default is MFWebClient.

Tip: The w eb client name isn't necessarily the name that w ill be used to access the w eb server from the Internet. You still determine that yourself

from w ithin IIS. This is its name w hen accessed from behind the f irew all so in general the default is recommended to make registration simpler.

4. Choose Install from the wizard when prompted to create the IIS application that is the MobileFrame Thin Client Server.

Important Information for IIS6 users: IIS6 requires that ASP.NET be "allow ed" and w hile our setup is w ritten to enable it during install, w e've

found that Microsoft's enabler can fail due to bugs in InstallShield/Window s Installer. After setup on an IIS6-based server, w e recommend opening

Internet Information Services, clicking on Web Service Extensions on the left, and ensuring that the ASP.NET v2.0.50727 entry is show ing as

Allowed. If it is not, please click on the entry and press the Allow button or the server w ill not be allow ed to run.

Once completed, your server should be available but not operational since you haven't registered it with the MobileFrame Database yet. You can confirm that the MobileFrame Server is running by navigating to its status page by way of any browser. The URL would be:

http://[MACHINENAME]/MFWebClient/status.html

Replace [MACHINENAME] with the name of the machine you installed the server on (or you can use localhost if on the same machine). If you changed the web client name then replace MFWebClient with the name you chose. You should see a simple status page come up. If you get any errors, particularly from IIS, something is wrong.

First StepsOnce installed, your MobileFrame Thin Client Server is worthless until it is registered to a MobileFrame Database. Use the MobileFrame Desktop to register your new Thin Client Server.

Please review the Thin Client Guide in the Online Help for using the Thin Client Server and its configuration options.


Frequently Asked QuestionsHow do I know what version of IIS I'm using?If you're running Windows Vista, 7, 2008 or beyond, you're using Internet Information Services 7+Any other OS is using IIS 6-If you want to confirm for sure you can run Internet Information Services (IIS) on your system from Administrator Tools. Once it comes up choose Help->About Internet Information Services. Read the screen carefully to find the version of Internet Information Services as Microsoft has made the About Box confusing by putting the version number of the OS in it as well.

Can I choose the installation directory?No. The installation directory is Program Files\MobileFrame\MobileFrame Thin Client Server. You can copy this directory elsewhere if desired but you must manually point the IIS application to the new directory.

I'm having problems!If the error messages don't give you a clue as to what's going on contact MobileFrame Support. There are infinite IT issues that could cause a failed installation. MobileFrame Support can help explore what's happening. Worst case, they can walk you through installing the server manually.

How do I make my apps accessible via the Internet?If you have an IT person, make them do it- it's a pretty standard operation. In a nutshell, you'll need an Internet domain name first. Next, you'll set the Name Servers configured for that domain to route www.yourdomain.com (or whatever url prefix you want) to an IP address for your company. You'll then need to set up your company router to let through traffic on port 80 (or 443 if using HTTPS) for that IP address and forward it to your Thin Client Server. If you're not familiar with this common process you may want to research it online or contact an IT person who should be familiar with it.


Uninstallation

Uninstalling Components

Uninstalling ServersTo uninstall the MobileFrame Server or Thin Client Server, follow these steps:

Open the MobileFrame Desktop and go to the Server ManagerChoose the server that you want to uninstall and press the Unregister button to unregister the server.On the machine in which the server is installed, uninstall the server via the normal Windows methodology (Control Panel->Add/Remove Programs or Control Panel->Programs and Features depending on your OS).In most cases the MobileFrame server directory will remain as it may include temp files and settings. Although optional, it is safe to delete the entire directory if you wish.

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Since all information is kept in your MobileFrame Database, you will not lose anything by uninstalling or reinstalling your MobileFrame Server or MobileFrame Thin Client Server.

Uninstalling the Windows Client or MobileFrame DesktopTo uninstall the Windows Client or MobileFrame Desktop follow these steps:

On the machine in which the product is installed, uninstall the product via the normal Windows methodology (Control Panel->Add/Remove Programs or Control Panel->Programs and Features depending on your OS).In most cases the MobileFrame product directory will remain as it may include local files and settings. Although optional, it is safe to delete the entire directory if you wish.

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Uninstalling the Handheld ClientTo uninstall the Handheld Client follow these steps:

On the device in which the client is installed, uninstall the product via the normal Windows handheld methodology (Settings->Remove Programs).In most cases the MobileFrame client directory will remain as it may include local files and settings. Although optional, it is safe to delete the entire directory if you wish.

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Uninstalling the DatabaseIf you wish to stop using your MobileFrame Database, follow these steps:

Open the MobileFrame Desktop and go to the Server ManagerUnregister all servers by clicking on the server entry and press the Unregister button.Go to your License Manager (under Administrator Tools) and deactivate your license. If you do not deactivate your license you will not be able to activate it elsewhere. If you require manual deactivation because you forgot to do it, contact MobileFrame support.Optionally destroy your database using the DBMS tools. Obviously, once destroyed your data is gone and cannot be recovered.

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Upgrading

Upgrading Your Software

IntroductionFrom time to time, MobileFrame will put out updates to the product (service packs, minor upgrades, hot fixes etc). To upgrade your system to a newer version follow these instructions.

Important: If you upgrading to the MobileFrame 5 Series from MobileFrame 4.x, please see the chapter for Upgrading From MobileFrame 4.x

for upgrade isntructions. This chapter describes the upgrade process for users already on the MobileFrame 5 Series.

The Upgrade FilesInside every MobileFrame release is an .MFU file. This one file contains all the upgrade information for all system components including your servers and clients. If you are eligible to upgrade, you can retrieve the upgrade from our support site by logging in under your account. If you don't see the files, please contact support.

Also included in the release are the various optional workflow packs (.MFW) and device driver packs (.MFV). If you are using these you'll want to upgrade to the latest version of these as well.

All components in the MobileFrame system should report the same version number.

Before You BeginPlease consider making a backup of your database. Although our upgrades are tested thoroughly, there can always be unforeseen scenarios specific to your environment that cause the upgrade to fail. If an upgrade does fail, you'll want to have a backup just in case it needs to be restored.

The server(s) will be temporarily stopped and restarted during the upgrade process so you may want to make sure your users are aware of this outage or plan your upgrade at a time where it won't affect them.


Step By Step1. Open your MobileFrame Desktop and log in as a system administrator.

2. Choose Plugins and Updates... from Tools->Administrator Tools.

3. If you have any existing plugins or updates, deactivate them by unchecking the Active column and pressing Apply.

4. Press Import... and choose the system update file of the MobileFrame release you want to upgrade to. Usually this file is named something like Full System Update 5.x.xxxx.mfu. The system will let you know this is a system update, press Yes to continue.

5. The system update file will be imported into your database and all servers notified of the new update. Close the Plugins and Updates Manager.

6. Choose Server Manager from the Tools->Administrator Tools. You should see each server indicate that it has upgrades pending.

7. Click on a server, press the Apply Updates button and enter the Windows domain/machine credentials of a user that has permissions to change files in that server's directory. This process may take a few minutes depending on the speed of your server.

Note: Be patient and don't freak out if the server status turns to a red ball. While the server is upgrading itself it may appear temporarily off line. If

the red ball persists longer than a few minutes then you probably have a problem and you should check the server logs for information. Contact

MobileFrame Support if you need help diagnosing the issue.

8. Once the server has been upgraded, continue upgrading every other server until all servers are showing the new version. Close the Server Manager once all servers have been upgraded.

9. Logoff and restart the MobileFrame Desktop. The Desktop will automatically upgrade itself to the latest version and prompt you to upgrade your database if there are database changes needed for your new version.

Upgrading the clientsThe clients will automatically bring down the system update and apply it on their next sync.


Upgrading

Upgrading From MobileFrame 4.x

Due to the nature of the changes and enhancements to the MobileFrame 5 Series, please follow these instructions if you are upgrading from the MobileFrame 4.x Series.

Before You Begin

Very Important: You must confirm with MobileFrame Support that your license is upgraded to allow the 5.x series. If you attempt to upgrade your system to the 5.x series and you are not eligible for upgrade, your license will not activate and you'll be stuck until the licensing is sorted out.

You can contact MobileFrame Support at [email protected] or via the phone numbers provided on our web site (www.mobileframe.com).

Make a backup of your database. Once your database has been upgraded to 5.x it cannot be downgraded and the old components can no longer use it. If some unforeseen problem causes a failure during the upgrade process you may need to rollback to this database backup.

Step By StepDue to significant changes in the server implementation in IIS, it is not recommended that you attempt to upgrade the server via the automatic upgrade facilities. The steps below will walk you through uninstalling 4.x and replacing it with a new 5.x system.

Prepare to uninstall the server(s)1. Open your MobileFrame Desktop.

2. Go to the Plugins & Updates Manager under Tools->Administrator Tools->Plugins & Updates. Deactivate any system updates, drivers, or workflow functions from 4.x.

3. Go to the Server Manager under Tools->Administrator Tools->Server Manager. Click on your server(s) and remove them.

Uninstall the MobileFrame Desktop4. Logoff the MobileFrame Desktop.

5. Uninstall the Desktop via the standard Windows methodology (ControlPanel->Add/Remove Programs or ControlPanel->Programs and Features depending on your OS).

6. Follow the instructions for Installing the MobileFrame Desktop.


Uninstall the Server7. Uninstall the server via the standard Windows methodology (ControlPanel->Add/Remove Programs or ControlPanel->Programs and Features depending on your OS).

8. Delete the MobileFrame Server directory to remove any settings files or temp files.

9. Verify the virtual directory (MFSyncServer1 by default) in IIS has been deleted properly. You can open IIS and look for this directory. If it still exists it needs to be removed as InstallShield cannot correctly overwrite it.

10. Follow the instructions for Installing the Server to install a fresh 5.0 copy of the server.

Upgrade your database11. Run the MobileFrame Desktop for 5.0.

12. Log in as a System Administrator.

13. You will be told that your database is not compatible with the current version of this software and given the opportunity to upgrade it. Choose Yes to upgrade the database.

Note: You may be told that your current license is no longer valid and you'll be prompted to reactivate. Just press the Activate License button to

reactivate your license for use w ith the 5 Series.

Reregister your server(s)14. Go to the Server Manager and choose Register... to run the Server Registration Wizard which will walk you through the process of registering your servers. See the Online Help or User Guide for assistance in registering your server should you need it.

Upgrading the clients15. Go to Administrator Tools->Plugins and Updates and import the Server Prerequisites for 5.0.mfu file.

16. Go to Administrator Tools->Server Manager and Apply Updates to ensure the Server Prerequisites folder is created on each server.

17. Go to Administrator Tools->Plugins and Updates and import the Full System Update file which will upgrade the clients automatically when they sync.

Tip: If your Desktop fonts look a little w eird check out the Frequently Asked Questions in the Installing the MobileFrame Desktop chapter for tips

on making your system look its best.


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