Hardware Issues

Whether you are a single-user or more than 200-user medical business, Horizon offers a system that's just right for your needs.  The key is extreme flexibility in hardware, which results in optimized performance and lower cost than competing systems.  IN GENERAL, hardware requirements are as follows.

ASP Option

PC or PC Network with Internet Connection.  All computers which are to access Horizon through our ASP hosting site must be connected to the Internet.  We recommend a 24 / 7 high-speed connection (e.g., DSL, T-1).  If these are unavailable, ISDN should be the minimum.  Please check with us for recommendations regarding a router for network connections.  Dial-up connections are only recommended for part-time connections such as access from home.

In-House Server Option

Dedicated PC Server. This PC houses the Horizon program and its powerful multi-user operating system. It can support from one to more than 200 workstations, each running up to 8 simultaneous sessions. The amount of RAM (memory), number of ports, etc., are determined by the number of workstations, printers and modems needed.

Horizon's ability to provide this mainframe computer performance from an affordable PC is due largely to its high-performance multi-user operating system, THEOS®.  THEOS® has an installed base of over 100,000 sites with over 1,000,000 users, ranging from small businesses to large corporations like Chevron and Costco.  For additional information, link to THEOS website.

Workstations. The first workstation is the monitor connected to the server. Additional workstations can be any combination of the following:

1. "Dumb" terminals. This is the least expensive option for workstations which require access only to Horizon. The terminals must have PC term emulation.
   

2. Stand-alone PCs. PCs allow you to run other Windows® programs (e.g., Microsoft Office, WordPerfect, Quickbooks, etc.). Horizon is accessed through an icon on the Windows® desktop.
   

3. A Windows® "TCP IP" network. A network allows more than one PC to share Windows® programs. Horizon is connected to the network through a single cable and all PCs on the network have access through an icon on the Windows® desktop.

Printers. We recommend at least one printer that has 132-column capability.  Other printers are optional. Horizon can handle multiple spooled printers (i.e., shared printers). Also, every workstation can have its own dedicated slave printer.

Internet Connection.  An Internet connection to the Horizon Server is required for training, troubleshooting and updates from our central Customer Support office.  A high-speed Internet connection can also be used for connecting your remote offices to your central Horizon server, thus eliminating the need for dedicated phone lines and modems for remote sites.

Modems. One modem is required for submitting electronic claims and electronic statements. This modem can also be used for remote access of the system by another PC and modem on an occasional basis (for example, from home).

If you wish to set up remote sites that will have continuous connection via phone lines to a host system, two additional dedicated modems will be needed for each remote site (one located at the host site, and one at the remote site).  If the remote site has more than one workstation, a multiplexer will be required at both the remote site and the host site to channel all remote workstations and remote printers through a single modem and telephone line.

Your Horizon dealer will work with you to configure the best system for your particular situation.