Why Upgrade to OS/400 Release 5?

Background:

Release 5 has been around for a couple of years now and is quite stable.  Version 2 has some compelling features that you should know about.  If you are on an earlier release (Release 3, or 4), here are some of those reasons you should consider this upgrade in the coming year:

 

Cygnus support capabilities will be severely limited since earlier releases are not load code compatible.  Any programs sent must be recompiled.  We are also limited to dial up modem access. 

 

Fully network integrated.  Data can now be easily imported into Word, Access, or Excel

 

Printer overlays are now affordable.  Save money on preprinted forms and maintenance on printers.  Use Laser printers to print invoices, statements, etc.  Logos, and fonts are now printable on low cost printers

 

Email/fax capability built in.  Send purchase orders, statements, etc electronically.  Save money on paper.

 

Compatibility with new p.c – operating systems (XP, Win 2000, etc).

 

Back up your p.c. files onto the AS/400 hard drive, then copy to tape.  Also have the ability to copy AS/400 hard drive to network drive for backup.

 

Eliminate cost of a central printer.  You can view spool files, easily copy off to desktop then print individual pages on personal printers.  Can also fax, or email.  Save money on paper.

 

Improve remote support capability via internet access, modem not required any more.

 

Pull down any AS/400 report to spread sheet or word document as either wordpad or PDF document. 

 

Download AS/400 data to floppy or CD.  Or send it to a web site

 

Interface quotes done on another system into live orders (requires some programming)

 

GUI interface for system management provided with iSeries Navigator.  You can add users, manage devices, etc., with drop downs and mouse clicks.

 

Remote access sign on and print from anywhere via internet access.

 

 

Improve your productivity by using the PC platform with your legacy data

 

Supports wireless interface (pda’s and cell phones)

New Features of Nevis/400

Background:

Cygnus Applications Solutions now has a true “native as/400” system which allows the following:

 

Better navigation.  All interactive programs have drop down functions for master files.  (Look up chart of accounts while in cash application for instance)

 

DB2 compliant data base file structure.  This feature allows the following:

 

Integration with the web – ordering, real time inquiries is now available at an affordable cost.

 

Data uploads/downloads – update AS/400 data base from pc data with no programming (add new vendor lines, update costs, etc.)

 

Next release – GUI interface will be built on this version