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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.

KB60903 - FireMV Install Procedure

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

Pre-existing video card. Is it separate or on the motherboard?

1. Determine whether or not you have an "on board" (part of your motherboard) video card or a separate video card (in a slot by itself). The easiest way without opening the case is to look at the back of your computer. If your monitor cable plugs in near your mouse and keyboard near all other PC connections, it is onboard. If not then most likely you have a separate video card.
    
2. Determine what TYPE of existing video card you have. Remember, the ATI FireMV line will ONLY work with other ATI products. If you have another brand video card, nVidia, GeForce etc, it must be removed (if separate) or disabled in BIOS (see below) prior to install or you will not have video. If it is an ATI product you can leave this card in as it should be compatible with the FireMV line.
    
3. If your video is part of your motherboard, see Changing primary video in BIOS section below for further instructions.
    
4. If your video is a separate card, simply shut down your system, remove the existing video card making note of which slot it was installed into. Normally no BIOS setting changes are needed if you have a separate video card.
   
   
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KB60904 - Changing primary video adapter in the BIOS

1. To change your Primary Video Adapter in your BIOS consult your motherboard or PC manufacturer. For most PCs here is how it is done:
    
2. Reboot your PC and watch carefully for the HOTKEY to enter setup, it only appears for about 2 seconds so be on your toes when rebooting. Normally F1, F2, or DEL.
    
3. Once you are in the BIOS screen you will have no mouse so use your arrow keys to navigate to the tab with the option referencing Primary Video Adapter or something to that affect.
    
4. Change this setting to the type of video card that you want your PC to recognize FIRST when booting. For example, PCI, PCI Express etc.

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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KB50908 - Which slot is which?

1. A quick way to tell which slot is which is by color. PCI slots are white, PCI Express (aka PCIe) slots are black, and older AGP slots are brown. We have heard of an orange PCIe slot also.
    
2. PCI Express comes in several sizes, x1, x8, x16 for example.
    
3. If you purchased a FireMV 2200/2250 PCI Express card that will only work in a x16 PCIe slot. If you purchased a FireMV 2400 PCI Express card it is recommended that it only be installed in a x1, x4, or x8 PCIe slot, not x16. If you purchased a FireMV 2400 PCI card it will only work in a PCI slot. Also make sure your card is the Primary video adapter in your BIOS (see above).

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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Installing your new FireMV video card

1. OK you know whether you have onboard or a separate video card, your BIOS is set (if applicable), you know which slot you are installing your new FireMV card into, and your system is shut down with the power cable unplugged from the back.
   
   TECHNOTE: Even after you unplug the power cable, hit the ON button on the front of the PC for a couple seconds to release the residual "pent up" power that is still on the motherboard to prevent damage to your new card.
    
2. Secure your new FireMV card in the appropriate slot and secure the FireMV pigtail cables on the back of the card.
    
3. Connect your monitors to the cables. If you have a 4 port card but only have 3 monitors, that is ok just connect what you have.
   
   TECHNOTE: To prevent confusion connect your cables in the appropriate order. You want monitor 1 connected the the monitor 1 cable on your FireMV card for example. This is detailed in your FireMV documentation.
    
4. Boot the PC and have your FireMV install CD handy.
   
   TECHNOTE: IMPORTANT ! When you first boot Window XP will most likely launch the "Found new Hardware Wizard". CANCEL on all of these prompts. You need to run the install from the provided FireMV install CD to prevent issues. You will get prompted once for each of the displays on your card. For example if you have a 4 port FireMV card that prompt will come up 4 times, CANCEL 4 times.
    
5. Insert your FireMV install CD, the setup wizard will automatically launch. Click on the Catalyst Control Center install option to begin the driver install. If you installed the .NET framework your install should go very smoothly, follow the prompts and your PC will be rebooted.
   
   TECHNOTE: If you get prompted during install for .NET framework you have not installed .NET prior to install. Cancel and go back to Microsoft .NET framework section and download before proceeding.
    
6. After your drivers have been installed your monitors should all light up. Give it a few minutes to finish loading after reboot then go to your Display Properties by RIGHT clicking (that was a RIGHT click) on your desktop and choose Properties, then Settings.
    
7. You will see all of monitors represented by icons (see below). For a 4 port card you will see 4 monitor icons for example. If all of monitors are connected, you will see all for 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 step 8.
    
    
8. 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". Hit Apply and OK and that monitor should now light up.
   
9. Resolution settings are completely independent for each display. To adjust these settings, select monitor #1 for example and change the resolution to your preference. Repeat for EACH of the other displays.
    
10. To determine which monitors are which, click on the Identify button in display properties. 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 order your monitors are in do not get hung up on that. As long as your mouse moves across all displays properly that is all that matters.

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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KB60905 - Move an application to a specific monitor

1. A utility called ATI HydraVision included with all QuadStation Systems has a function called "Move to Monitor" which will allow you to do this and much more.
2. Click here to download HydraVision
3. Click here to download HydraVision User Guide
   
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KB60906 - Microsoft .NET 2.0 framework

• Prior to installing your FireMV card you must first download and install .NET 2.0 framework from this URL: http://www.windowsforms.net/download.aspx

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KB10804 - Spanning across multiple displays

• In Catalyst Control Center you can span a single image across displays up to 4 only. Beyond that you need third party software like Ultramon. Note this is only when you want to stretch your desktop across multiple monitors, it have nothing to do with the total number of independent displays you can have.
• You must have Microsoft .NET Framework installed prior to downloading and installing the Catalyst Control Center

TECHNOTE: When displays are spanned the taskbar is spanned also. Video will not span across displays, 1 monitor only for DVD video playback. NTI has successfully tested spanning other video formats across more than 4 displays in our QuadStations.

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KB50909 - FireMV video cards and TV Tuners in the same system

• The FireMV line will work in conjunction with most ATI TV Tuner cards, but it must be ATI.
• The TV Tuner card will "capture" the input signal from your TV source and through your motherboard it channels to video to the OUTput of one of your FireMV ports.
• FireMV is an OUTput card only. An INput card such as a TV Tuner card will be needed to capture

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KB60907 - FireMV Chipsets

• 2200PCIe = RV370

• 2200 PCI - RV280

• 2400PCIe = M24

• 2400PCI = M9
  
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KB50904 - Can I put more than 1 video card in the same system?

• Yes. Our QuadStations support up to 3 FMV video cards. However we do not recommend attempting this yourself as it is a bit technical. Allow us to build a system for you. ATI nor NTI cannot provide support for more than 1 card if attempted by user. Our QuadStations of course come with full support from NTI.

• Depending on your motherboard it does make a difference which cards you would choose.

• Contact our Sales Team at 800.346.0732 if you need help deciding or if you would like us to build a system for you.

• Also see our QuadStation systems and let us do the work for you. Support for up to 10 displays with a single system.
  
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KB50905 - Can I extend my video cables on my video card?

• Yes. We offer several video extension cable options on our website. Click here for details or to order extension cables.
• The general rule of thumb is that you can extend Analog (SVGA) up to about 100' and Digital (DVI) up to about 50'.
  
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KB60908 - Can I create a video wall with FireMV video cards?

• Yes, but up to only 4 displays and it can not be TV or video. PC applications such as PowerPoint are ok. See Spanning Displays for more details.
• You can go beyond that as part of our QuadStation or Digital Signage systems

KB50911 - Network card conflict with FireMV video cards

• If your your network card becomes disabled after you install a FireMV product this is a Microsoft issue and they have a fix for it. It is not available for direct download for some unknown reason, you have to call and have them email it to you and it expires in 7 days after they send it to you.

1. Call Microsoft HotFix rep at : 800.936.4900 option 0
2. You will be connected with a MS HotFix rep you need to ask for HotFix # KB890463
3. They will ask you why you need the patch, be persistent tell them the manufacturer told you to get it.
4. They will email you a link to the HotFix which will expire in 7 days so install right away.

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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KB50912 - I work with 3D graphics, do you have 3D video cards?

Yes. We have several video cards that are certified for CAD, engineering, design, scientific rendering and more. See our video card line up for more details.

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KB50901 - Which video card should I choose?

• All the FireMV cards will give you the same multi monitor functionality, some are just faster than others.
• The FireMV series comes in two basic profiles, PCI and PCI Express (PCIe). Which card you choose depends on the type of slots that you have available on your computer's motherboard. All computer have at least one PCI slot, most new computers now have at least one PCI Express slot but it depends when you purchased your system so you have to check to make sure.
• PCI Express is faster, and slightly more expensive than PCI (for more information on bus speeds click here).

• There are different levels of PCI Express, referred to as x1(by 1), x16(by 16) etc.

• PCI Express slots are usually black, PCI slots are usually white and if you have an older system, AGP slots are usually brown in color. Note that some motherboards may vary in color.

• See picture below to determine which slot(s) you have available on your motherboard keeping in mind that your existing video card is normally removed so that slot may be available too and you may have more than one of each. To do this you will have to pop the cover off of your PC to get a look at your motherboard. (also see FireMV Install Procedure)

  

• The slots that you have available will determine which video card(s) you can use.
• You can install more than one FireMV card in the same system as long as you have the available slots.
• In the FireMV line there are currently 2 different PCI Express cards. The FireMV 2200 PCIe which is a 2 port card with a x16 connector. To use this card you must have a x16 slot on your motherboard.
• And the FireMV 2400 PCIe which is a 4 port card with a x1 connector. To use this card you must have a x1 slot on your motherboard. The x1 slot is about 1.5" long and usually black in color.
• If you have neither of these slots you can use the FireMV 2400 PCI card. All computers have at least 1 PCI slot.
• Now that you have determined which slots you have available, click here to choose your FireMV video card. If you are still unsure at this point, stick with the FireMV PCI version it will always work.
• If you are unsure or you want NTI to do the work for you, see our QuadStation Systems.

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KB10802 - I am a stock trader, do I need a 3D video card?

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.

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KB10803 - One large screen or several regular size displays?

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.

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KB50910 - What version of DirectX do the FireMV cards use?

• Version 9

KB60901 - Dual Core vs. Quad Core Processors

• NTI can build a QuadStation based on the newest Quad Core processors up to 10 displays.
• For more details on dual core vs quad core processors see our Stock Traders page.

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Linux Drivers

• Currently ATI only has drivers for the FireMV 2200 PCI and PCIe versions.
• Download from ATI-AMD's website at: http://ati.amd.com/support/driver.html

KB50906 - Vista support for FireMV

• Yes you sure can. All of our video cards and QuadStations are compatible with Windows Vista
• ATI/AMD has released drivers for the 32 and 64bit editions of Vista for the FMV 2200/2250 PCI Express and FMV 2400 PCI Express versions.
• Download from ATI-AMD's website at: http://ati.amd.com/support/driver.html
• No support for PCI version under Vista

KB50907  - Will the FireMv video card work in my system?

• Yes most likely. The PCI version of our Quad Cards will work in just about any make or model PC. Give us a call and we can help you decide.
• Please note customers have reported that most Dell systems have issues with all PCI Express versions. For Dell systems use the PCI version.
• If you are unsure allow us to build a QuadStation for you. Our complete multi monitor system shipped right to your door.

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KB60909 - Can I run multiple instances of windows Media Player?

• 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

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KB60910 - Internet Explorer v8 Causing Lockups / Also see: Microsoft Knowledge Base Article  # 968499

We wanted to inform you of a known issue with Microsoft’s new version 8 of Internet Explorer which 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.  Also menus hanging, script error messages and other browser issues.

SOLUTION:

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 is much more stable.

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.

For more information click on this link: Microsoft Knowledge Base Article # 968499

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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 with the TAB function turned on.

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.

To turn OFF TAB function:

• Open Internet Explorer
• Click on Tools/Internet Options
• In the Tabs Section..click on Settings button
• At the top of the next window...UNcheck the item that says "Enable Tabbed Browsing"
• Click OK to save your changes.
• You must also close ALL Internet Explorer Windows for it to take effect. See screenshot below:

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KB60912 - Can I downgrade from Vista back to Windows XP?

Yes. Click here to learn how.

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KB60913 - Vista reports less than 4g memory when 4g is installed.

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).

For the full Microsoft KB #929605 article click here.

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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 WinXP & Vista 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.

(source: Microsoft - See this MS Article for full details)

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.

KB60915 - Operating Systems - Compare Windows 64 bit vs 32 bit

Ok here's the deal. It really depends on the type of applications that you are using. As of 2010 most mainstream applications are still written in 32bit code. You are not really gaining any application performance on a 64bit OS unless your applications are ALSO 64bit. The underlying operating system will be running at 64 bit speed, but the 32 bit applications that you are using on a daily basis will still run at 32 bit speed not capable of utilizing any of the 64bit factor.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of 64bit?

One of the greatest advantages of using a 64-bit version of Windows is the ability to access physical memory (RAM) that is 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. Is that important?  Well lets just say it is not as important as it used to be now with the extremely fast Intel i-7 class of processors. These are the fastest processors to date and actually have an embedded memory controller right in the processor.

How much memory can I have with a 64bit OS?

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.

From Microsoft KB#946765

Will my current programs work with a 64bit OS?

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.

Things to consider before choosing a 64bit OS

• 64-bit device drivers may not be available for one or more devices in the computer.
• Device drivers must be digitally signed.
• 32-bit device drivers are not supported.
• 32-bit programs may not be fully compatible with a 64-bit operating system.
• It may be difficult to locate programs that are written specifically for a 64-bit operating system.
• Not all hardware devices may be compatible with a 64-bit version of Windows.

Conclusion: If you are not specifically using 64bit applications, stick with 32bit for now. Although programmers are moving closer to a 64bit standard we are not even close to being there yet. If you are thinking of changing to a 64bit application at some point in the near future go for the 64bit OS now and your system will be ready for it. You will also gain the extra memory allowance.

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.

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

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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

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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

1. Go to your Display Properties by RIGHT clicking (that was a RIGHT click) on your desktop and choose Properties, then Settings as shown in previous article.
    
2. 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.
   
    
    
3. 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.
   
   
    
4. Resolution settings are completely independent for each display. To adjust these settings, select monitor #1 for example and change the resolution to your preference. Repeat for EACH of the other displays.
    
5. 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. 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 XP License Key (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 CONNECT YOUR FRD DRIVE:

1. Slide both of drives out of the hard drive tray.
2. Unplug the 2 connectors from the Primary drive and plug them into the labeled FRD (Factory Restore Drive).
3. Restart your computer.
4. Follow the Microsoft Wizard prompts to RE-activate your Windows XP Operating System by entering in your Microsoft Product ID found on the side of your case.
5. Install your specific software, and you are back up and running.

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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.

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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 Windows XP 32 bit only recognizes a maximum of 3g of memory in any system.

KB30902 - Vista memory limitation

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

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KB30903 - DDR3 Dual channel vs DDR3 Triple channel memory

In the 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 Intel i7 based 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. All NTI QuadStation-i7 Systems come standard with 3G of Triple channel memory, the fastest memory to date.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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KB40903 - Connecting the FRD Drive

To ensure the quality of the QuadStation product line, NTI has included a second hard drive in the system. 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.

This will bring your system back to the state of the day it left the factory 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.

HOW TO CONNECT YOUR FRD DRIVE:

1. Slide both of the drives 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.

2. Unplug the 2 connectors from the Primary drive and plug them into the labeled FRD or Factory Restore.

3. Restart your computer.

4. Follow the Microsoft Wizard prompts to RE-activate your Windows XP Operating System by entering in your Microsoft Product ID found on the right side of your case.

5. Install your personal 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.

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.

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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.

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