Guide for Using Multiple PCs for Results Entry

This guide explains how to safely use multiple computers to enter results into the scoring system when all data is stored on a central computer.

Following these steps ensures fast performance, prevents file‑locking conflicts, and avoids Windows‑related issues.

It is also important to have trial run with the networked arrangement before the carnival day.

1. Overview of the Multi‑PC Setup

In a typical carnival setup:

·PC1 (e.g., Dreadnought) stores the data files (.fic files) in say C:\SportsTrak3000.

·C:\SportsTrak3000 is shared on ther local network, with full permissions.

·Other PCs (e.g., Zorro, Victory) run their own copy of SportsTrak 3000 and have their Data Path set to the share name folder on Dreadnought.

·They may then enter results or competitors to PC1 over the network.

This works reliably as long as Windows, network sharing, and antivirus settings are configured correctly.

Do not use Cloud based storage  such as Google Drive, Drop Box, One Drive  for the program or data

2. Windows Network Requirements

2.1 All PCs must be on the same network

·Same Wi‑Fi or Ethernet network

·Same IP range (e.g., 192.168.15.x)

2.2 Disable “Offline Files” on all PCs

Offline Files can cause:

·Cached copies of data

·Phantom locks

·Corrupted updates

·Slow performance

How to disable:

1.Open Control Panel

2.Select Sync Center

3.Click Manage Offline Files

4.Click Disable Offline Files

5.Restart the PC

This is essential

3. Shared Folder Setup on the Data PC (PC1)

The folder containing the data files must be shared correctly.

3.1 Folder permissions

Right‑click the folder → Properties → Sharing → Advanced Sharing:

·Tick Share this folder

·Click Permissions

·Allow:

oRead

oChange

o(Optional) Full Control

All workstations must have permission to read and write.

3.2 NTFS Security permissions

Folder → Properties → Security:

·Ensure Users or Everyone has:

oRead & Execute

oModify

oWrite

Both Sharing and Security permissions must allow writing.

4. Antivirus Configuration (Very Important)

Antivirus software can delay or block access to .fic and .ndx files, causing:

·Slow saves

·Lock conflicts

·Failed writes

·“File in use” errors

4.1 Add exclusions on all PCs

Exclude the following on every computer:

·The shared data folder on PC1

·The program folder (where the EXE and DLLs are stored)

·The EXE itself

·All .fic and .ndx files

This prevents scanning delays during saves.

5. Running the Program from a Shared Folder

You may run the executable:

·From each PC’s local drive, or

·Directly from PC1’s shared folder

Both methods work.

If running from PC1’s shared folder:

·Ensure Offline Files is disabled

·Ensure antivirus exclusions are applied

·Do not replace or attempt updating the EXE while other PCs are running it

All PCs should always run the same version

6. Handling Simultaneous Saves

The scoring system supports multiple PCs saving results at the same time.

What happens during simultaneous saves

·The system uses safe retry logic with exponential backoff

·If two PCs save at the same moment, one may wait briefly. This is normal and handled automatically

If a save fails after all retries, the operator will see a message:

“The save could not be completed. Another computer is updating results right now. Please wait a moment and try again.”

This prevents data loss and keeps the system stable.

7. Network Stability Tips

To ensure smooth operation:

·Prefer wired Ethernet for the data PC (PC1)

·Avoid weak Wi‑Fi connections on scoring PCs

·Do not use power‑saving modes that turn off network adapters

·Ensure all PCs have stable IP addresses (DHCP reservations recommended)

8. Recommended Startup Procedure

Before the carnival begins:

1.Turn on PC1 (data PC)

2.Turn on all scoring PCs

3.Confirm each PC can open the shared folder on PC1

4.Launch the scoring program on each PC

5.Load an event on each PC to “warm up” the system

6.Begin entering results

This avoids the initial “cold start” delay caused by Windows caching.

9. Troubleshooting Quick Reference

Problem: Cannot connect to PC1

·Check network connection

·Check folder sharing

·Check permissions

·Check firewall settings

·Check IP address of PC1

Problem: Save fails occasionally

·Another PC is saving at the same time

·Operator should retry after a few seconds

Problem: Very slow first save

·Normal Windows caching behaviour

·Restarting the program or PC can cause this

·After the first save, performance is fast

Problem: “File in use” or “Access denied”

·Offline Files is still enabled

·Antivirus is scanning the data folder

·Permissions are incorrect

10. Summary of Essential Requirements