As promised, here’s a second list of are five more computer programs you would do well to obtain.

1.    Online data backup solution. Most people who back up their data do so to a location near their computer. If something happens to that computer—for example, it’s destroyed in a fire—chances are that the device that’s holding the backup data will be destroyed, too.  Even if you do transport a USB drive containing your data to another location, something may happen to it. This is why adding another layer of precaution with an online data backup solution that augments traditional backup methods is a good idea.

2.    Computer “doctor” program. Such a program lets you diagnose your computer for hardware problems—for example, bad memory or RAM, bad system board, USB ports not working, hard drive going bad, and the like. This way, minor problems can be addressed easily.

3.    RAM assessment program. This program, which comes free with all versions of Microsoft Windows, tells you if you have enough RAM or memory in your computer to run it properly.

4.    Remote log-in program. Once this type of program is installed, you can access your store, restaurant, or home computer from the software provider’s Web site by entering your user name and password. This type of software can be provided by pcAmerica. After taking this step, you can operate your computer from a remote site as if you were actually pushing the keys on it. For example, suppose your computer is in the back office of your store and you want to access a spreadsheet while at a trade show in another city. To view the spreadsheet, you would go to the vendor’s Web site, enter your user ID and password, and use your computer as if you were sitting in front of it at the store.

5.    Task management software that lets you see which programs are running on your computer and may be slowing it down. Many programs are unnecessary and can be deleted. Programs like What’s Running 3.0, the advanced version of the Task Manager program that comes with Microsoft Windows, allows you to identify which programs are running and disable or delete those you do not need.

To find out more about software offerings that can improve your point-of-sale system, contact pcAmerica.