Minimum and suggested system requirements for a la mode desktop software

This document lists our minimum and suggested operating system and hardware specifications.

Document 6002  |  Last updated:  03/20/2024 MJY

Start with the minimum requirements section below for a list of our bare minimum requirements to run our desktop software. Or, jump to the suggested specifications section to see our recommendations for optimal performance.

Before you begin:

TOTAL should not be installed on the following:

• Terminal service, or any other remote desktop service
• Cloud desktop workspaces (Amazon WorkSpaces, or Google Cloud)
• A VPN (Virtual Private Network) connection
• A server that's also being used as a domain controller
• Apple computers with an M‑series processor such as the M1 or M2 chip
• Computers with an ARM‑based processor
• A USB drive, External storage, or NAS drive (Network Attached Storage)
• A compressed directory
• Folders which have been redirected to a different location

If you're planning on using any of the above, your installation won't be supported by a la mode, and you may need the assistance of a local technician.

Minimum requirements

Our system requirements are based on your operating system, not your hardware. The versions of Windows listed below are the only versions that are currently supported. If you're unsure which version of Windows you use, click here(http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/which-operating-system) .

Keep in mind that TOTAL runs exclusively on Windows operating systems. Click here for more information about using TOTAL on an Apple computer if you are interested in installing TOTAL on a Mac.

Microsoft ended support for Windows 7 and Server 2008 R2 on January 14, 2020. Windows 8.1 support ended on January 10, 2023, and support for Server 2012/2012 R2 ended on October 10, 2023.

Click here for more information concerning the end of support for computers running those operating systems.

In addition to your operating system, one thing to keep in mind when purchasing a new PC, or upgrading your existing hardware, is hard drive space. You need enough space to install your programs, and enough space to store your report files.

Program size on disk:

•  TOTAL:  750MB (750MB + 400MB if installed on a server)
•  TOTAL Sketch:  200MB
•  TOTAL Connect:  220MB

Report file sizes:

We recommend that you have at least 20MB of storage space available per report completed. Multiply this value with the number of reports you complete in a year to determine your minimum annual storage needs.

We don't support the use of a NAS drive to store your TOTAL files. However, if you have a hard drive which is substantially larger than another, consider changing the folder TOTAL uses to store your reports or images. Click here to learn how.

Internet Connection:

Having a steady Internet connection is required for many functions of our software. This includes — but isn't limited to — report delivery, syncing TOTAL for Mobile, and downloading maps.

Windows Administrative Privileges:

Your computer needs administrative privileges to run certain TOTAL components, such as the update wizard. Most computers come with the necessary privileges right out of the box, but in certain situations this isn't always the case.

Click here to learn more about configuring administrative privileges. If you need assistance with configuring your computer, please reach out to a local technician.

Suggested specifications

As with any software, the more your PC exceeds minimum requirements, the better your experience will be. With this in mind, if you're interested in purchasing the best computer setup possible, we've put together a buying guide which outlines exactly which tablet, laptop, desktop, and accessories could be used for your business. Click here for a free download.

Additionally, our desktop software relies on various components included in Windows updates. Prior to installing our software on your computer, we recommend that you check that Windows is up to date.

 Operating System:

Windows 10

 RAM (memory):

Standalone:  ≥ 8GB

Server:  ≥ 16GB DDR4 RAM

 Processor:

≥ Quad‑Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5

 Hard Drive Options for Single and Dual Hard Drive Computers:

Single Internal Hard Drive: ≥ 1TB primary drive*

Dual Internal Hard Drives: ≥ 500GB primary drive and ≥ 1TB secondary internal drive*

 Disk Speed:

SSD or 10,000 RPM drive

 Network Card (Servers only):

10/100/1000 Mbps

Wireless Network Connections are not recommended. Instead, we recommend using a hardwire connection between your server and workstation(s).