Installing TOTAL FAQ

What system requirements do I need to meet to install TOTAL?

TOTAL requires Microsoft Windows and at least 750 MB of hard drive space to run on your computer. We suggest an additional 10 MB per report at minimum. Click here for more on our hardware guidelines.

Do I need internet access to use TOTAL?

You don't need to be connected to the internet to open TOTAL. However, full functionality depends on a steady internet connection. Report delivery, syncing TOTAL for Mobile, USPS conversion, downloading maps, and other features all require internet access.

Where can I download TOTAL? How do I get it installed?

Download your copy of TOTAL by logging into your account at www.alamode.com/myaccount. Click Download Products on the left, locate TOTAL in your list of products, and click on the Download link on the right. Click here for the complete install instructions. If you haven't purchased TOTAL yet, click here for more information and to purchase your copy online, or contact us at 1‑800‑ALAMODE (252‑6633).

Do I need to install TOTAL Sketch and/or TOTAL Connect separately?

No. When you install TOTAL, TOTAL Sketch and TOTAL Connect are both installed alongside it. You only need to install these programs separately if you need access to them on a computer where TOTAL is not installed.

If you need to install TOTAL Sketch or TOTAL Connect without installing TOTAL, both programs are available in the Download Products section of your a la mode account.

How do I move TOTAL to a new computer?

If you've purchased Titan Drive, transferring all of your information to a new machine is easy. On your old machine, simply back up your reports and databases using Titan Drive. Then, restore them on the new machine. To learn more, or to get started, click here.

Even if you don't have Titan Drive, you can still move your data to your new machine. Click here for step‑by‑step instructions on how to transfer your information manually — without using Titan Drive.

What's the difference between a standalone, server, and workstation installation?

Differences in installation types determine how your computer interacts with TOTAL and how it interacts with other PCs. Generally speaking, a standalone installation is the most common choice, and is built for single users that don't rely on networks and servers to run an office.

Server and workstation installations work together, often in a multi-appraiser office, where multiple files need to be accessed by multiple people simultaneously. A server installation is chosen when installing TOTAL on a main computer where the reports and databases are stored for an office. A workstation installation is installed on additional computers that connect to the server — this allows each workstation to access the same reports and databases, and share information across the network.

Click here to learn more about which type of installation is best for you.

I use a network in my office. Can office staff or a trainee use my copy of TOTAL?

They're welcome to download a trial of TOTAL. The copy of TOTAL registered to you is only for your use (as stated in the license agreement). If staff or trainees need to work in TOTAL, they need to buy their own copies.

Another option is to install TOTAL on a network. For instructions on installing on a network, click here. Keep in mind, a network installation will require a server license. Our TOTAL Server Licenses are extremely affordable and excellent for multi‑user offices. Learn more about them by clicking here.

Do I need a TOTAL Server License? What is it?

Based on requests from customers, in TOTAL we've invested in two separate database engines to serve different needs. Single‑user and small shops receive TOTAL on the clean and simple SQLite (SQL Light) that's perfect for standalone users, while larger shops running on a network receive TOTAL on SQL Server Express — a powerful core that allows for better and faster performance for multiple users at one time.

We charge for a server license because larger multi‑user offices call more often than others. There is also a higher cost to develop software for server customers and provide third-party maps and data to them. Rather than pass those costs on to everyone, we've created the affordable TOTAL Server License for those that require it.

Click here to read more, or to purchase your TOTAL Server License today.

Can I install TOTAL on a domain controller?

In short, we don't support customers who install our formfiller products on a domain controller. Since SQL 2008 is a required component for TOTAL to run properly, it's installed during the TOTAL installation process. Microsoft advises against SQL 2008 being installed on a domain controller, due to issues with security and performance. Click here for alternatives and to learn more about why we don't support TOTAL on a domain controller.

How do I connect my laptop to my office network?

Since laptops are meant to be used for mobility, you'll likely be unplugging yours from your network frequently to work away from the office. If this is the case, you don't want to install TOTAL from the network, because it wouldn't run if you were to disconnect your laptop from the server. A standalone installation is your best bet. Click here to read more about using laptops in network environments.

How do I convert a server or workstation installation of TOTAL to a standalone installation?

If you're ready to convert your server or workstation to a standalone installation of TOTAL, click here for instructions.

How do I convert a standalone installation of TOTAL to a server or workstation installation?

If you want to convert your standalone installation of TOTAL to a server or workstation, you'll need to back up your existing data, uninstall TOTAL, then reinstall TOTAL as a server or workstation. Click here for detailed instructions on the conversion process.

I have other questions about TOTAL that aren't answered here. Where can I find more information?

If you have more questions about TOTAL, click here for our TOTAL FAQ. You can also click here to view the TOTAL User's Guide for additional information. To view our Getting started with TOTAL video playlist, click here.