NTI Knowledge Base

NTI has compiled knowledge base from many years of customer feedback and our own engineer's personal "Tech Notes". We hope you find it informative and helpful. If you have any questions always feel free to contact us we would be happy to speak with you directly. Check back often as this site is continually updated.

* If you are looking for a multi monitor system, see our QuadStation Systems. A complete multi monitor system to help you substantially increase productivity.

Prior to installing your new video card(s) please follow these important instructions so your install goes smoothly:

TECHNOTE: Only change your BIOS to another video adapter when you are ready to shut down the PC and install your new FireMV video card. Once you change your video setting the card MUST be installed that you told BIOS to look for before you reboot the PC or your will have no video. Also, some BIOS settings may not have a specific setting for your video slot, as they are all different. You may only have an AUTO setting which should be fine.

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TECHNOTE: Do not attempt to install in a slot that the card is not intended for as it may damage the card and void your warranty.

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TECHNOTE: If your monitors are arranged 2 over 2 for example, this is where you make those adjustments. Just drag monitors 1 and 2 over top of 3 and 4 for example. If you are using widescreens the video card will recognize that and offer special widescreen options for those types of displays.

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TECHNOTE: If you are looking for a multiple screen computer system see NTI's QuadStations Computers. Support for 2-12 displays with a single PC.

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(May 2013) - Until just recently Internet Explorer v8 seemed to be the most reliable of the IE browsers. Microsoft released version 9 which was very problematic out of the gate sending most to the Add/Remove programs to remove it.

In 2012, Microsoft released the BETA edition of IE version 10 which at first (and typical of any new Microsoft release) was quirky and buggy at best. With a raised eyebrow we tried it only to find it needed a little more time to steep while they work out the rest of the kinks.

February 2013 Microsoft officially released IE10 for all to download requiring that that you have Windows 7 and SP1 preinstalled. Without SP1 no IE for you.

As of this writing IE10 seems to have stabilized after many updates making it the new champion (of the IE browsers that is) in our view.

To check which version of Internet Explorer you are running, open your browser and click on the HELP menu and About Internet Explorer. If you are running version 8 or less it is time to upgrade to IE 10 as many security holes have been fixed since v8. Skip right over v9 it is still quirky go right to v10. Remember you must be on Windows 7 with SP1 installed or Windows 8.

Any questions give us a ring at: 239.254.9206 we will be happy to steer you in the right direction.

TECHNOTE: We have asked Microsoft why they don't simply post this HotFix on their site as our engineers have used it and recommended it with perfect results. It resolves the network card conflict with FireMV and even the older Xentera line of video cards. Why they make you just through these hoops...who knows. It does not make sense but at least you have a way to get it.

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12.15.10> NTI has spent many hours over the past few months working with customers to help identify this problem and it comes down a vBIOS update needed on the ATI FirePro 2450 PCIe x16 video cards that solved the problem.

Many customers have reported that their computers would not boot when the following parameters are met:

This updates the BIOS of the FirePro video card. This is an easy process and fast. ATI will probably include this update in future releases of video cards and will have this update built in .

The new digital video cards are designed a bit differently when it comes to connecting monitors to them.

Monitors must be paired with the same exact make, model and resolution on ports 1/2. On ports 3/4 they must also be exact pairs, but they can be different (or same) monitors on subsequent pairs.

For example, you can have two identical Viewsonic monitors with the same resolution settings on ports 1 & 2, and two identical Samsung monitors with the same resolution on ports 3 & 4. In other words, they can be different PAIRS. You could NOT connect a Viewsonic and a Samsung next to each other on ports 1 & 2 get it?

If you have all 4 of the same exact monitors, ignore this requirement you are fine.

No. 3D will be useless in a trading environment as it will never be tapped. The FireMV line is designed specifically for the financial industry with very fast changes and layered multitasking capabilities. Pair that with our Dual Core processor systems and that is as fast as it gets. This is the basis by which our QuadStation was designed.

Q: I am inclined to use a single 30" monitor rather than several smaller ones. Which way should I go?

A: You will get better results by breaking it down into several monitors rather than demanding all that data to a single video port. Think of it like spreading the system resources. The end result will be plenty of screen real estate without putting all the stress on a single video port.

According to Microsoft, for Windows Media Player 7 or later, it is NOT possible to open multiple instances of the Player, although you can embed multiple instances of Windows Media Player 7 or later in a Web page. You can open multiple instances of Windows Media Player 6.4, by doing the following:

> Click Start, click Run, and then type mplayer2.exe. Windows Media Player 6.4 starts
> On the View menu, click Options, and then click the Player tab
> Select the Open a new player for each media file played check box
> Source: www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/faq/customizing.mspx

Microsoft�s Internet Explorer v8 sometimes causes computers (all types) to freeze or reboot intermittently. If you have Automatic Updates turned on, IE-8 is part of the update and will be installed automatically whether you want it or not unless you specifically uncheck that item before updating.

To check your Automatic Update settings go to your Control Panel and click on Automatic Updates (Win XP) or Windows Update (Vista). Here you can choose to turn OFF the automatic update function if you like.

PROBLEM: Many customers have reported that the new Internet Explorer version 8 causes computers to lock up or reboot intermittently in Windows XP. Also menus hanging, script error messages and other browser issues.

IF YOU HAVE ALREADY UPDATED TO IE-8: Uninstall Internet Explorer 8 from Control Panel/ Add Remove Programs. This will roll you back to IE version 7 which may correct the problem.

IF YOU HAVE NOT UPDATED TO IE-8 YET: Verify by clicking on Help/About Internet Explorer from your IE browser. This will tell you which version you are currently running. If you are still in version 7 there is nothing to do but you want to make sure that if your Windows updates are set to Automatic, that the IE-8 item is UNchecked so it is not installed without notifying you.

If you do Windows updates manually, you can choose NOT to install IE-8 during the process. This is done by choosing Custom (WinXP) or View Available Updates (Vista) option BEFORE starting the Windows update process. The EXPRESS option will install everything including Internet Explorer 8, you do not want to do that.

NOTE : This article only applies to Windows XP NOT Windows 7. Windows 7 works fine with IE version 8

Upgrade your computer to a multiple display QuadStation with Windows 7. Win7 works very well with IE 8. Contact NTI today for more details we can help you. Call: 800.346.0732

KB60911 - System lockups when using multiple Internet Explorer windows (applies to versions 7 & 8 of IE)

PROBLEM: Versions v7 and v8 of Internet Explorer have issues when opening multiple instances of IE. The problem occurs because IE has the new TAB function in these versions, which is turned ON by default. The problem only occurs when opening multiple instances of IE and also using the TAB function in IE. You cannot use both on a multi display system you must choose one or the other.

SOLUTION: The resolution is quite simple. Either open a single Internet Explorer window and utilize the TABs to open different web pages. OR...Turn the TAB function OFF in IE so each window you open, opens a new IE window like the old days before TABS.

If a computer has 4 gigabytes (GB) of random-access memory (RAM) installed, the system memory that is reported in the System Information dialog box in Windows Vista is less than you expect.

For example, the System Information dialog box may report 3,120 megabytes (MB) of system memory on a computer that has 4 GB of memory installed (4,096 MB). This example applies to any amount of memory (1g, 2g 3g etc) and also effected by your video card. A portion of your system memory is reserved to work with your video card. Please see the Microsoft article below for a full explaination.

KB60914 - Microsoft Windows Memory Limitations on all operating systems - (source: Microsoft)

The amount of 'useable' system memory is completely dependant upon the operating system used. Maximum 'useable memory' on Win7, Vista & WinXP 32bit = 3G. This is regardless of what type or brand of computer you are using. This is a Microsoft Windows limitation not hardware. The limit is 4G per the MS table below. But USEABLE is still only 3G. Some operating systems may SHOW more memory in system properties however it will not utilize any of that extra memory.

Also there are two basic types of memory now, dual channel DDR3 and the new triple channel DDR3 used in Intel i7 based systems. Triple channel memory works in conjunction with the memory controller built into the processor and installed in lots of 3. So all QuadStation-i7 Systems come standard with 3G of Triple channel memory, the fastest memory to date.

Note above memory table is referencing DUAL channel memory. To take advantage of the additional memory speed we use TRIPLE channel memory which is installed in lots of 3. Also see Dual Channel vs Triple Channel Memory

Ok here's the deal. As of 2010 most mainstream applications are still written in 32bit code however there are many benefits of using 64bit NOW. For example, even though your current applications are only 32bit code they are backwards compatible and will work in a 64bit environment. Also, the underlying operating system (Windows 7) will be running at DOUBLE the speed, taking FULL advantage of the 64 bit technology.

Most future applications will more than likely be written for 64bit and they are coming fast so you want to be ready.

One of the greatest advantages of using a 64-bit version of Windows is the ability to access physical memory (RAM) above the 4-gigabyte (GB) range. This physical memory is not addressable by 32 bit versions of Windows. What this means is a 64bit OS will allow you to have more memory. That is very important now because the new Intel i-7 class of processors actually have an embedded memory controller right in the processor. This means that the memory and the processor now work in tandem increasing the computer speed to a level never before possible.

It depends on the hardware you are using. If you have a system with the Intel i7 processor then the answer is 6G. The reason is that although 64bit OS will support more than that, you will want to take advantage of the new TRIPLE channel DDR3 memory which must be installed in lots of 3 and most motherboards have only 4 available slots total at this writing. So an Intel i7 based computer system would have 3 x 2g memory chips to get the 6G.

For the most part, 32 bit applications will work in a 64bit OS which is somewhat 'backwards compatible'. Note that NOT ALL 32bit applications will work in a 64 bit environment. Consult your software vendor for details.

THE BOTTOM LINE: If you are in the market for a new PC, combine a 64bit processor (Intel i7) and a 64bit operating system (Win7-64) to get all the speed you can possibly get. You will be ready for the future.

Don't be concerned so much about the additional memory. If you want more speed, upgrade to a faster i7 processor. Remember, it is not so much about how much memory your system has as it was in the old days. Processors have become so fast, it is now all about the type of processor you are using. Read "It is More about the Core" section on our Intel i7 page.

KB60916 - Updating to SP3 (service pack 3) as part of Windows XP updates. How to uninstall.

(APR2010) The final service pack for WinXP that Microsoft will release is SP3 which is part of the most recent Windows updates.

Problem: Customers have reported that after doing windows updates and including SP3 their computers began running much slower, or would not boot at all with black screens.

Solutions: If you have not yet installed SP3 do NOT install it when doing Windows updates. Choose CUSTOM updates not Express to get the option to deselect it.

If you have already installed it, you should back it out by one of the following methods:

Method 1: Use the "Add or Remove Programs" item in Control Panel

Method 2: Use the hidden $NtServicePackUninstall$ folder

Method 3: Use the System Restore process from a RUN COMMAND

Method 4: Use Recovery Console

KB60919 - Issues with Windows 7 - 64 bit version and Flash in Internet Explorer 8

The Problem: This is a known issue as of June 2010. Windows 7 -64 bit version comes with TWO versions of Internet Explorer 8. A 32 bit version and a 64 bit version both of which are normally on your Programs menu. The problem is that Adobe has not yet developed a Flash Player for the 64 bit version of IE.

The Solution: For now, use the 32 bit version of Internet Explorer in Windows 7-64 or any site that has Flash (which most of them do now) it will not be displayed. You can tell by clicking on the HELP menu in IE and it will show whether you are currently in the 64 bit or 32 bit version. The 32 bit version will show the following dialogue box:

KB60920 - Norton 360, Norton Antivirus or Norton Internet Security will not install on Windows 7

The Problem: You try to install a Norton product on windows 7 and you get a message stating that it is incompatible with your operating system.

The Solution: Norton has released an update that you can run prior to install which will allow the install complete successfully on Windows 7. Follow the instructions they have posted on their site here: http://www.symantec.com/norton/support/globalmaps/os_compatibility.jsp . You will be directed to a page that looks similar to the one below to download the update for you particular product.

If you have additional questions contact Symantec from the Support link on their site.

Overview: Technically there is no "upgrade" from Windows XP to Windows 7. You must to a fresh, clean install of Windows 7. This means that EVERYTHING on your main C drive will be wiped clean. Most programs will work in Windows 7 if they worked in WinXP or Win Vista, but make sure before you start. NOTE: If you have Vista now, you CAN upgrade to Window 7 from Vista, just not Win XP to Win7.

If you would prefer that we do this upgrade, let us do the work for you. Contact NTI today for assistance. Call: 800.346.0732

In our continued effort to keep our QuadStation customers well informed, we are providing this technical update for you. Many customers have reported that after installing the new Internet Explorer version 9, their Windows operating system becomes unstable and sometimes cause random rebooting. This is a Microsoft Internet Explorer 9 issue, not a problem with the hardware or your system. Customers report that after they REMOVE IE-9 and revert back to v8, and the problem goes away.

That said, we are recommending that all customers remove IE-9 until further notice and stay with version 8 which is very stable.

You may not have installed it intentionally, but IE-9 is installed automatically when you do the latest Windows Updates.

To find out if you have installed it go to CONTROL PANEL from your Start menu. It is a bit different for XP and Win7 see below:

--If you are on WinXP: Add-Remove Programs (make sure you show Windows Update items is checked at the top).

--If you are on Win7: Programs or Programs and Features / Uninstall a Program. / Click on View Installed Updates on upper left column. There are all the Windows updates that have been installed)

Look for Internet Explorer v9 in the Windows Updates list. If it is there, UNINSTALL IT. It will revert back to version 8 automatically. Reboot.

If you require assistance or have questions feel free to call us we will be happy to assist you..

The Problem: A required certificate is not within its validity period when verifying against the current system clock or the timestamp in the signed file. Also associated with Error Event ID 4107 or Event ID 11

FIX #1: Microsoft provides this solution, try this first if it does not work, move to fix # 2.

To resolve this issue, use the System File Checker tool (SFC.exe) to determine which file is causing the issue, and then replace the file. To do this, follow these steps:

Open an elevated command prompt. To do this, click Start, click All Programs, click Accessories, right-click Command Prompt, and then click Run as administrator. If you are prompted for an administrator password or for a confirmation, type the password, or click Allow.
Type the following command, and then press ENTER:
sfc /scannow
The sfc /scannow command scans all protected system files and replaces incorrect versions with correct Microsoft versions.

FIX #2: Thanks to Paul L. for this information:

1. First you need to get some detailed logging on what's failing, Click Start > Control Panel > Administrative tools > Event Viewer > Expand Applications and Services > Microsoft > Windows > CAPI2 > Right click "Operations" > Select "Enable Log" >Then reboot.

2. Return to the same place in Event Viewer > And open the errors listed there, as you can see "In My Case" the problem is McAfee, after I removed McAfee and installed the latest version (8.7i with patch 3 at time of writing), the error ceased.

Note: Your problem may not be McAfee, but at least you now have a better idea of what it is :)

KB60925 - Windows WMI Error Event ID 10 in Windows 7

The Problem: A WMI error occurs if a "WMI Filter" is accessed without sufficient permission. This originated in the Windows 7 SP1 DVD/ISO creation process. There was an issue in the creation process that caused a WMI registration to remain in the DVD/ISO. Since the registration is designed to work only during the DVD/ISO creation process, it fails to run on a live system and causes these events. These events are not indicative of any issue in the system and can be safely ignored. If however you want to prevent these events from getting generated and want to remove this specific WMI registration manually, please follow the steps mentioned in this article for running the workaround script:

When you click on the DETAILS tab in the error message and select XML view , you receive a message similar to this:

Event Xml: <Event xmlns="http://schemas.microsoft.com/win/2004/08/events/event"> <System> <Provider Name="Microsoft-Windows-WMI" Guid="{1edeee53-0afe-4609-b846-d8c0b2075b1f}" EventSourceName="WinMgmt" /> <EventID Qualifiers="49152">10</EventID> <Version>0</Version> <Level>2</Level> <Task>0</Task> <Opcode>0</Opcode> <Keywords>0x80000000000000</Keywords> <TimeCreated SystemTime="2008-01-18T22:37:27.000Z" /> <EventRecordID>187</EventRecordID> <Correlation /> <Execution ProcessID="0" ThreadID="0" /> <Channel>Application</Channel> <Computer>adsd-PC</Computer> <Security /> </System> <EventData> <Data>//./root/CIMV2</Data> <Data>SELECT * FROM __InstanceModificationEvent WITHIN 60 WHERE TargetInstance ISA "Win32_Processor" AND TargetInstance.LoadPercentage > 99</Data> <Data>0x80041003</Data> </EventData> </Event>

The Solution: There are 2 solutions here, one automated by the Microsoft FixIt utility and manually. To resolve this problem, you need to run a script to stop the Event ID 10 messages. This article applies to all versions of Windows 7 and Server 2008 R2.

Solution 1 - Automated:

MS FixIt ID# 50688

Solution 2 - Do it Myself:

In a text editor such as notepad, create a new text document name "workaround.vbs"
Copy and paste the following code into "workaround.vbs".
========================================
strComputer = "."

Set objWMIService = GetObject("winmgmts:" _
& "{impersonationLevel=impersonate}!\\" _
& strComputer & "\root\subscription")

Set obj1 = objWMIService.ExecQuery("select * from __eventfilter where name='BVTFilter' and query='SELECT * FROM __InstanceModificationEvent WITHIN 60 WHERE TargetInstance ISA ""Win32_Processor"" AND TargetInstance.LoadPercentage > 99'")

For Each obj1elem in obj1

set obj2set = obj1elem.Associators_("__FilterToConsumerBinding")

set obj3set = obj1elem.References_("__FilterToConsumerBinding")

For each obj2 in obj2set

WScript.echo "Deleting the object"

WScript.echo obj2.GetObjectText_

obj2.Delete_

next

For each obj3 in obj3set

WScript.echo "Deleting the object"

WScript.echo obj3.GetObjectText_

obj3.Delete_

next

WScript.echo "Deleting the object"

WScript.echo obj1elem.GetObjectText_

obj1elem.Delete_

Next

=========================================
Save and close notepad.
Open an "elevated command prompt" (Start/Programs and RIGHT click on command prompt --choose "run as administrator".
Changed Directory (CD x.x) to the location of "workaround.vbs" text document
Run script.
After you run this script, the Event ID 10 messages stop appearing in the Application log. However, you have to manually clear any previous Event ID 10 messages

QuadStation Systems

KB10901 - Setting up your new system

Please take a moment to review the items listed below to ensure the fastest setup of your new system:

Before you begin:

� Inside the motherboard box you will find your video Y-cables, adapters, extra cables, and all of your software.

� Not all cables are used that are included with your system. You will have extra cables leftover for future expansion of your system.

� Review the printed documentation included with your system prior to setup.

Getting Started:

1. If you also purchased a monitor mount, assemble the mount first and attach all LCDs to the mount. Instructions and hardware are included with the mount.

2. Unpack your QuadStation System, and all accessories.

3. Connect all the necessary video Y-cables for the number of displays that you are using starting with the TOP video card.

4. Connect the keyboard, mouse and speakers

5. Connect the black power cord (preferably to your battery backup or surge protector.)

6. Turn on the system.

Adjusting Displays:

� Refer to the document entitled, �Multi Monitor Display Settings� for step by step details on how to set up and adjust your displays. This document was included with your system.

� If you are not using all of the displays at first, simply leave the unused video ports disconnected. The software will automatically detect and disable those ports in Windows.

Getting Help

If you still need assistance getting setup or arranging your displays please feel free to contact our QS Support team at : 239.254.9206, they will be happy to assist you

KB10902 - Connecting all of your cables

The cables required to attach your monitors to your video cards and your power cable are usually the only cables you will need from the box to set up your system. If you are not using all of your displays at first, for example if you bought a QuadStation 8 but plan on using only 6 displays right now, make sure to connect your displays starting with monitor #1 which should be numbered on the back of the video card(s).

Please note: The video card �Y� cables that connect to the back of the video card do not screw in completely. This is normal. Just make sure they are pushed in all the way after your PC is situated where it should be to prevent cables from coming loose. Below is an example of a FireMV Video card.

The remaining cables are not needed. These are extra cables that came with your motherboard or other components to allow for future expansion of your system if you so decide. NOTE: NOT ALL CABLES ARE USED THAT ARE PROVIDED WITH YOUR SYSTEM

KB10903 - My monitors are in the wrong order

If you have connected all of your monitors and one or more displays are not ACTIVE simply go to your Windows Display Properties and activate that display there. Note that if monitors are not connected at the time of booting your PC the video card will temporarily make them inactive. Also note that it is normal for displays to flicker temporarily while changing settings. See instructions below:

1. To activate and/or arrange your Multi-Monitors, right Mouse Click on the desktop background and select Properties (XP)/ Personalize (Vista) and left click.
	Windows XP	Windows Vista
2. In Windows XP, this window will come up...choose the Settings Tab

---in Vista, this window will come up...click on Display Settings

3. Enable all the displays by putting a checkmark in "Extend my windows desktop to this monitor." If no monitor is plugged in on this port, the monitor will be �grayed� out (see monitor #6). 4. Once all monitors are active, press the Identify button. Note the large white numbers presented on your monitors and arrange the monitor icons (shown right) to match the large white numbers on your screens when you hit Identify. You can rearrange the monitor position by simply clicking the monitor in this window and dragging it to its correct location to match the order of the big white numbers when you hit identify. If your monitors are arranged differently, all 6 in a row for example, you just arrange these icons to match how your have your monitors positioned to match that. 5. Click Apply, and OK. Your mouse will now move seamlessly across all monitors. Back to Top	Window XP Screenshot, Vista is similar but without the tabs at top.

KB10904 - Setting display preferences and resolution

Go to your Display Properties by RIGHT clicking (that was a RIGHT click) on your desktop and choose Properties, then Settings (in Windows XP) or Screen Resolution in Windows 7.
You will see all of monitors represented by icons (see below). For a 4 display system you will see 4 monitor icons for example. If all of monitors are connected, you will see all four icons illuminated. If you have no video on one or more (example monitor #4 in pic below) you have to enable that monitor. Proceed to next step.
In this example you would SELECT monitor #4 by single clicking on it. Then put a checkmark in the option to "Extend my Windows Desktop onto this Monitor" (shown below). Hit Apply and OK and that monitor should now light up.
Screen Resolution settings are completely independent for each display. To adjust these settings, select monitor #1 for example by selecting that icon, and change the resolution to your preference. Repeat for EACH of the other displays. In Windows 7 the resolution settings will look like this:
To determine which monitors are which, click on the IDENTIFY button. A large white number will appear on each monitor for about 2 seconds. If your monitors are in the wrong order, you have 2 choices. Either change the order of how your monitors are physically plugged in, or simply rearrange the order of the display icons to match the order big white numbers when you hit IDENTIFY.

It does not matter what the order of your monitors are in do not get hung up on that. As long as your mouse moves across all displays properly you are set up correctly.

TECHNOTE: If your monitors are arranged 2 over 2 for example, this is also where you make those adjustments. Just drag monitors 1 and 2 over top of 3 and 4 for example. If you are using widescreens the video card will recognize that and offer special widescreen options for those types of displays.

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KB20905 - Factory Restore Drive

To ensure the quality of the QuadStation product line, NTI has included a second hard drive in the system on systems built after approximately 2008. The FRD (Factory Restore Drive) comes with a complete factory image of your system as it came from production. In the event that your primary hard drive fails for any reason, whether it is software or hardware related, you can simply open the computer case, unplug the primary drive and plug in the FRD.

When you start up your computer the next time, enter your MS Windows License Key (from eh sticker located on the right side of your computer), load your specific software and you are right back to work again! No need to wait for hours for a system recovery CD to load, we have done the work for you.

Please Note: This is not a DATA backup drive, only a Factory Restore Drive. NTI strongly suggests keeping regular backups of your data. Backup software is included with your system but you must set up your own backup routine.

How to Change over to your RESTORE Drive:

Shut down the computer and remove all cables from the back of the unit.
Remote the left side cover of your computer case after removing the 2 screws on the back edge of the cover.
Locate the 2 hard drives mounted in your system. Depending on the age of your QuadStation they would be labeled with a white label (SYSTEM and RESTORE or FRD)
Switch cables from the System drive to the RESTORE / FRD Drive. Depending on the style of your case, the 2 cables shown in the picture above right will be easily accessible. For older systems the cables may be behind the drives requiring you to slide both of drives out of the hard drive trays. It is easy don't worry. If this is the case you most likely will need to cut the zip ties on the sides, holding in the hard drive trays. We do this for the security during shipping.
Unplug the 2 cables (shown upper right) from the System drive and plug them into the labeled RESTORE or FRD (Factory Restore Drive).
Restart your computer, the system should boot right back into Windows just as you bought it from us originally. Remember none of your data or programs that you have added after you bought the system will be there This procedure restores the system back to factory state just as it came from us originally. Your data will still be on the SYSTEM drive that you disconnected. Read more below.
You may be prompted to reactivate Windows is so follow the Microsoft prompts to RE-activate your Windows Operating System. Your product ID number will be on a sticker found on the side of your case.
Install your specific software, and you are back up and running

PLEASE NOTE. The FRD Drive is NOT a backup solution for your data. This special drive is not connected and used only for restoring a QuadStation system back to factory state as it came from the factory. Please implement your own backup routine for backup up your data on a regular basis. Your system comes with the software to set this up, please refer to the software application help menu for instructions.

If you have data that you need to move over from the original drive, contact our support team and we can tell you what to do next. Remember you cannot copy back over any program. They will all have to be reinstalled.
To REMOVE the hard drive which are mountedd in removable trays, simply slide out of the hard drive tray. Note that to ensure secure shipping these drives may have been zip tied on the sides, cut these zip ties before attempting to remove the drives.

KB20906 - Wireless keyboards and mice

Wireless keyboards and mice offer the benefit of a cordless environment when using your computer. however if you have chosen a wireless keyboard and/or mouse you must accept the inconsistencies of this technology. It is very common for these types of devices to drop out from time to time particularly when the batteries get low, which requires a quick 're sync' of the transmitter and receiver. Typically this is just a button on the top of the receiver. If this is not for you then use a standard wired keyboard for full time connectivity. If your occupation relies on fast responses you should stay with a wired keyboard and mouse to avoid frustration.

KB20907 - Battery Backup vs Surge Protector

The difference is simple. Both will provide surge protection, the battery backup (also called an uninterruptible power supply or UPS) holds extra power temporarily allowing you to shut the computer down properly during a power outage. The battery will keep your computer running for 7, 10, 15 minutes etc depending on the type of UPS, allowing you enough time to save your work and shut down properly. Remember, it is only temporary so do not keep on working...it will only last for a few minutes. Stop, save whatever you have open, and shut the computer down.

Sometimes the power only goes out for a few minutes and pops right back on. You have to make a judgment call at that point depending on how bad the storm is. If you think that it may go out again, shut your computer down and wait for it to pass. Continuous off and on surges to your computer is very damaging. In the case of a television or other equipment it will give you enough time to turn it off. Read Full Article Here

KB20901 - How to Rotate Displays

Rotating displays from 'landscape' (horizontal mode) to 'portrait' (vertical mode) is done in the display software included with your QuadStation system. The biggest advantage of rotating a display is if you are constantly scrolling on the web or if you review long documents.

For a video demonstration showing a monitor rotated and the benefits see the QuadStation 3 Professional Page.

KB30901 - 3G Memory limitation in Windows XP 32 bit version

Prior to quad core processors, memory played a bigger part in overall system speed. But now memory is not as much of a contributing factor as the processor takes the primary role relative to system speed. Although memory is important it is not nearly as important as how much core processing power you have in a system. Also all Windows 32 bit operating systems only recognizes a maximum of 3g of memory regardless of what type of computer system. This is a Windows limitation not hardware.

KB30902 - Vista memory limitation

Windows Vista 32 bit with SP1 recognizes up to 4G max

KB30903 - DDR3 Dual channel vs DDR3 Triple channel memory

In the beginning, there was single channel memory, then dual channel was introduced, now we have TRIPLE channel. What is the difference? Triple channel memory offers the highest throughput for real world applications. Interleaving reduces overall memory latency by accessing the DIMM memory sequentially. Data is spread amongst the memory modules in an alternating pattern.

The new triple channel DDR3 memory is used in all of NTI's multiple screen QuadStation Systems. Triple channel memory works in conjunction with the memory controller built into the processor and installed in lots of 3 to take advantage of the triple channel speed. If you are being offered memory in even numbers such as 2G, 4G or 8G you are using the older Dual channel memory, not triple channel.

You cannot compare dual channel vs triple channel accurately as this is not an apples to apples comparison, Triple channel is very different. For example 3g of triple channel memory is about the same as 6g of older dual channel memory all things considered. Also note that it is not all about memory any more, it is more about the cores on the processor.

All NTI QuadStation-i7 Systems come standard with 3G of Triple channel memory, the fastest memory to date. Any questions about memory feel free to give us a call now at 800.346.0732.

KB30904 - Multithreaded applications (hyperthreading)

A multithreaded application is a software application written to take advantage of hyperthreading technology. Hyperthreading is a processor technology developed by Intel that enables multithreaded software applications to execute threads in parallel on a single multi-core processor instead of processing threads in a linear fashion.

Hyper-Threading enables different parts of the CPU to work on different tasks concurrently. This greatly enhances the overall performance of a computer system as it allows simultaneous data streams. Think of I like a single lane highway vs. an 8 lane highway with regard to data. Not all applications can take advantage of hyperthread capable CPU however it is the way of the future.

Note that all newer Microsoft operating systems and applications such as Microsoft Windows and Office take full advantage of hyperthreading technology. So even if you are using one specific application that is not mult threaded, your Window operating system will gain a huge benefit in speed from hyperthreading.

KB30905 - Stock Trading applications and QuadStation systems

Stock trading applications such as Tradestation, Ameritrade, CyperTrader, QCharts, ETrade etc. are the applications traders use to manage their trading activity. These applications are currently single threaded applications but most all of them are moving toward updating their software to take advantage of multi-threading. What this means is that any system you buy for trading, you want to make sure it has a Quad Core processor with Hyper-Threading technology to make sure you are ready for the future. A single threaded application can work in a multithreaded environment as it is backwards compatible.

NTI QuadStation systems have been tested with all trading platforms and configured for optimal performance based on EACH software vendor�s absolute highest specs and far beyond. This includes the Quad Core processor that is installed in all QuadStation systems. All systems greatly benefit from quad core processing even if the trading platforms have not yet update their software to take advantage of multi threading. This will be the standard in the future and your QuadStation is ready for it!

KB30907 - Spanning Stock Trading applications across multiple displays

Stock trading applications such as Tradestation, Ameritrade, CyperTrader, QCharts, ETrade etc. are the applications traders use to manage their trading activity. The multi display capabilities of these software applications depend on how the software was written. Please contact your software vendor and let them know you are using a multi display system. They will be familiar with this scenario and will be able to help you manage the software in such an environment. This has nothing to do with the hardware or your system, this is purely a software issue.

Normally what you have to do is span the main application across the displays, and the 'sub' windows (floating windows) will then move across the screen. Keep in mind that these floating windows are limited by the boundaries of your main software application. By spreading the main application across the displays manually, all windows inside the application will span as well.

Also stock trading platforms sometimes have a 'floating window' funtion written into the software that allows the windows to go OUTside of the main application. Contact your software vendor for more details.

KB40901 - Hardware vs. software issues

Please note NTI is a hardware vendor so we do NOT support software of any kind. This includes Microsoft Windows operating system, all trading software and/or issues or performance related to these applications and all other software applications. Please refer to your individual software vendor for troubleshooting any software issues.

Examples of software related issues:

A sluggish system
Pop up errors referencing software in the name such as DLL errors
Slow internet connection or response time
Changes in system performance
Viruses and spyware infections
Anything related to firewall or antivirus programs

Examples of hardware related issues:

A noisy fan
System does not boot at all
Color changes or flickering n your monitor (usually just a loose cable)
No video on any display

Typically if you are in Windows and you see your desktop all of your hardware is working properly. Anything beyond this point would be a software related issue. Please contact your respective software vendor to troubleshoot these issues. If you have a hardware related issue feel free to contact NTI at any time or if you are not sure give us a call.

KB40902 - DVD Playback issues

To play a DVD movie it requires a software decoder to run. This software is usually included with your DVD drive. To play movies this must be installed and activated. All QuadStation systems come with this software preinstalled and tested.

KB40903 - I have a black border (space) around the edge of my monitors which does not fill my screen .

ISSUE: You have a black border around the edge of your screen like this:

PROBLEM: There are several reasons why this happens and all are listed below with fixes for each:

Your resolution is set higher than the monitor supports.
The monitor itself needs to auto calibrate.
Your wallpaper needs to be stretched.
You need to adjust your scaling options / overscan settings if you are using an ATI video card and HDMI.

FIXES:

If your resolution settings allow you to set higher than your monitor supports you will sometimes get a black border. Change your resolution settings for each monitor to the (recommended) setting.
To calibrate your monitor look for an AUTO button or something similar on the front of the monitor itself. You may need to refer to your monitor user guide as these buttons are often confusing to navigate. However, most monitors have an AUTO button for this purpose.
You may simply need to stretch your wallpaper to fit the screen. You know this is the case if you have a black border, but your mouse moves into this usable space.

In Windows 7 you will have the following options in your wallpaper settings:

In Windows XP it will look like this:
And this last one usually occurs if you are using an ATI video card and connecting your monitors using HDMI cables or adapters. This has to do with what is called Overscanning or Scaling and there is a setting ATI Catalyst Control Center software to fix this. See the example below.

To change this setting in Catalyst Control Center:

1) Right click on the Desktop or the programs tabs in the start menu and open Catalyst Control Center.
2) Switch to Advanced mode if you are not there already.
3) Click dropdown menu Graphics in the top right.
4) Select Desktops and Displays.
5) Right Click your currently activated display under `Please Select a Display' on the bottom right.
6) Select Configure.
7) Click on the Scaling Options tab.
8) Now, just move the scale to the right (overscan) until you get full screen (in most cases, it is 0%)

KB70901 - How to Measure LCD Displays

To verify that your LCDs will fit on the mount you are using you need to be able to measure your LCDs. Click HERE for step by step instructions on how to do so.

KB80901 - Ghosting Windows in Options Express- JAVA issue

ISSUE: Customers have reported that certain versions of JAVA have issues with Options Express and perhaps other trading platforms.

PROBLEM: In this instance, customer states that when using CLONE in DETACH mode, causes layers of windows to overlap or 'ghost' when dragging windows. This is not a video problem.

CAUSE: New version of JAVA version 6 build 16 causing the problem.

FIX: Revert back to older version of JAVA version 6 build 3 corrected the problem. To obtain an alternate version of JAVA click here.

KB80902 - Runtime Errors in QuoteTracker, Ensign and other trading programs.

If you are getting errors similar to the one below this is a software related issued not hardware. Please contact your software vendor to help you troubleshoot this issue.

Other resources:

See this posting on a technical trader website for details.
If you need to download the latest Runtime components, see Microsoft KB Article 259403

KB80903 - Trading Applications Freezing or crashing -- Corrupted Workspaces and Profiles

CAUSE: If your trading application is freezing or sluggish you could very well have a corrupted workspace or profile in the trading application. This is a simple thing to resolve or rule out. Corrupted workspaces happen quite often in trading applications.

FIX:

Open the workspace/profile that you are using when the freezing occurs.
Save AS and give it a new name.
Close your trading application and reboot
Reopen your trading application.

Note: that problems like this often 'appear' to be a computer problem when in fact they are not. To rule it out, close your trading application and see if you still have a problem. Open any other program except your trading application or utilities used by your trading application. Usually you will find that everything works fine until your trading application is opened. This means that if you only have an issue when the trading application is open, it is NOT the computer it is your application.

KB80904 - Tradestation freezes up or hangs when you move between screens, sometimes locking up your computer.

PROBLEM: You may need to upgrade to the newest version of Tradestation. You also have a corrupted workspace or profile in the trading application. See KB80903 above.

FIX: At the time of this writing the newest version of TS was v8.8 and resolved this issue. Please contact your Tradestation representative directly on how to obtain and install the updated version.

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KB80905 - How to do a clean uninstall of Ninja Trader from your computer per Ninja Trader

Please follow the steps listed below to completely uninstall and reinstall NinjaTrader:

1. Close all running applications.

2. Then from the Start menu select --> Control Panel --> Add / Remove Programs.

3. From Add and Remove Programs select NinjaTrader and click Remove.

4. Then manually delete the folder "NinjaTrader v** located under Start --> My Documents.

5. Delete any NinjaTrader installation files. This can be done by going to Start --> My Computer --> Search button --> search for (NinjaTrader*) --> select Local C Disk and then press search.

6. Then you will need to clear your internet browser cache and history. You will clear this from within your internet browser (with IE, Tools-->Options, delete cookies and files, clear history).

7. Reboot your machine.

8. Once these steps are completed, download NT 6.5 from the link below: Download

Any questions Contact Ninja trader directly

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KB80906 - Tradestation lagging due to issue with Bitdefender antivirus.

PROBLEM: Note that many of our customers that use Tradestation have reported issues specifically with Bitdefender. BitDefender is an antivirus/internet security software developed by a Romanian company that apparently has a Java Virtual Memory conflict which prevents Tradestation from allocating memory that exceeds 768 MB of memory.

FIX: Remove Bitdefender completely. Choose a more well known antivirus program such as Microsoft Essentials, Norton's or McAfee.

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KB80907 - To use QCharts in Windows 7 the software vendor states that there are a few settings such as the Windows 7 Firewall and User Account Control (UAC) that must first be configured in order for all the QCharts components to properly function. This involves running QCharts and the Data Manager in Windows XP Compatibility mode as described in this detailed article by QCharts.

KB80908 - Think or Swim conflict with Bitdefender antivirus

PROBLEM: Many of our customers that use Think or Swim have reported issues specifically with Bitdefender. BitDefender is an antivirus/internet security software developed by a Romanian company that apparently has a Java Virtual Memory conflict which prevents TOS from allocating memory that exceeds 768 MB of memory.

FIX: Remove Bitdefender completely. Choose a more well known antivirus program such as Microsoft Essentials, Norton's or McAfee.

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KB80909 - SideBySide #33 Errors Causing System Crashes in Windows or Trading Applications

PROBLEM: This is NOT a hardware problem this is a software problem.

SideBySide errors are caused by the current Microsoft Visual C++ version not being backward compatible with the trading application that failed. The Event ID 33 error message is typically: Activation context generation failed for �program name�. Please use sxstrace.exe for detailed diagnosis. There are other similar SideBySide errors with the same problem of backward compatibility.

The most commonly affected programs are trading applications like FXCM, Candlesticks, TradeStation, Think or Swim etc . Trading application are very finicky about using specific versions of Visual C+ , JAVA and Active X controls. We have seen it many times where a trader installs one Windows update too many and it takes down their application. (see comment below)

If the software works OK then you don't have to fix it but if it does not or you want to get rid of this error here are two Fixes:

FIX:

1) Reinstall or Repair (preferred if an option) the application. Often the installation package will have the version of Microsoft Visual C++ that it uses and will install it.

2) Try to figure out what Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package version (available versions are: 2003, 2005, 2008, & 2010) the application needs (most likely the one that came out prior to the date that the application software was created; check the dates of the files in the package). These are available through Microsoft's Downloads.

Worse comes to worse you can just try installing a previous version to see if it works, if not then try the one before that. Though I don't like it, you can have multiple versions of Microsoft Visual C+ on your computer and most people do because various install programs will install the one that they like.

COMMENTS:

Above fix from this Microsoft Forum Technical Post.
SideBySide errors are typically caused by Microsoft Visual C+ as mentioned above, which usually come in as part of a Windows Automatic Update (another reason why we recommend doing updates manually, and turning off automatic updates).
To identify which version of Microsoft Visual C+ is causing your issue look at your Windows Application Event Logs (Right click MyComputer/MANAGE) you can cross reference the start date of any SideBySide errors, with the last Microsoft Visual C+ update. If you have multiple like the screenshot below, you would remove the last one that was installed about when your problem started.
Again this is an issue because Microsoft Windows updates automatically installed a version of Microsoft Visual C+ that is too new for your specific trading application to support and it causes crashes. You need to back it out and use an older version of C+ per the article above. You should also contact your trading application software vendor and ask them which version they recommend. It should NOT be older than the date that the software was written.
For example if the software was written in 2005 and your software vendor is telling you to just use the newest version dated after 2005, hang up and follow these instructions described here. They are wrong and more than likely just trying to get you off of the phone.

Also see these articles regarding C++ and .NET:

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QuadStation Multiple Display Computer Systems:

12 Display

10 Display

8 Display

6 Display

4 Display

3 Display

2 Display