Ad-blocking Software

Ad-blocking software is not exactly new, in fact ad-blocking utilities have been around for years.  For all of these years I have avoided this type of software thinking that I can just ignore the adverts and get on with work.

But there are benefits:  In addition to making your web surfing faster, because adverts are simply not loaded meaning the pages load quicker, blocking adverts also makes it more secure since there have been many documented cases of rogue adverts introducing malware or ransomware (the 'new' big threat) onto your computer by deliberately - or accidentally - clicking on an advert.

Regardless of the browser you use, whether it's Chrome, Firefox or Internet Explorer, you can search for 'adblock software' and then select a utility for your make of browser from a reputable supplier.

I use 'AdBlock Plus', which is free, works on all browsers and is easily installed by clicking on the 'install...' or 'add...' button.  AdBlock Plus allows you to choose between blocking all adverts, or only those that don't conform to strict guidelines that all advertisers must follow, in which case only 'trusted' advert providers will appear.

The above is just my personal opinion.  I am not affiliated to ad-blocking companies in any way.

Windows 10

As most of you will know, Microsoft's new Windows 10 operating system has been around for a number of months now.  When it was first released, I suggested waiting for a time for it to prove itself before recommending that you upgrade.

Mercury Systems works perfectly when installed on Windows 10.  Sometime ago I upgraded my three machines to Windows 10 and all programs work as intended.

I am now happy to recommend to all customers that you consider upgrading to Windows 10 on your office machines whilst Microsoft is still offering the upgrade free-of-charge.  The exception to this would be if you know of legacy software installed on your machine(s) (or perhaps really old hardware devices such as old printers) that may not work correctly after an upgrade.  Almost all software programs developed within the last 5 years (or even longer) should work without complaint.

If you have been sitting on the fence, now may be a good time to reconsider the options available.

Vacation...

I am away from Monday 15^th February and will return on Monday 29^th February 2016 (10 business days).

During this time I should be able to respond to emails and occasionally hold a conversation using Skype, as I am taking a laptop with me.  It may also be possible for me to connect to your pc’s / server’s in the event of an emergency (only).

As most of you will know by now, it is my policy to not issue program updates for a couple of weeks before going on vacation, so software updates have now ceased. Please do not schedule any major software upgrades, hardware replacements etc. to your computers that requires my input either just before or during that time as I may be unable to respond.

New Access Rights For Mercury Systems Version 256

Mercury Systems version 256 has been amended to include new access rights within the Service Manager tab of the User Management screen.

You must ensure that existing user accounts have been updated to include rights #217, 218, 219, 220, and 221 where appropriate, otherwise users will be able to view service request screens, but not save any amendments to those screens.

Please see the image below for guidance, or contact Hatchgate Software if you need assistance.

WTA 2016 Trade Show/Conference - February 26th

I will be attending the 2016 WTA Trade Show/Conference held at the Ramada Park Hall Hotel & Spa in Wolverhampton on February 26th.  Like last year, Hatchgate Software will have a stand at the show, so if you are interesting in seeing the Mercury Systems software in more detail, or discussing your service management and/or stock control requirements, please come along and say hello.

Paul, Hatchgate Software

New 'Asset Register' Module

Mercury Systems version 254 now contains a new 'Asset Register' module.

This module can be used to record and track the whereabouts of stock items that you may rent out or loan to clients.  Once you create your list of asset items, you can assign items to selected clients, recall items from clients, display and print out a history of movements for items, and automatically add those items to a client's contract schedule for easy PPM visits and invoicing.

New items can be copied from existing items for quick entry, and a control screen provides an easy overview of all asset items and their current location.

If you supply rental items or loan items to clients, please give this new module a try.

New 'Read Receipt' Option When Sending EMails

When sending an email through the latest versions of Mercury Systems, you can now select an option to request a 'Read Receipt' from the recipient's email system.  With this option set, and providing the recipient's email system doesn't explicitly reject requests, you should then receive a confirmation that your email has been received and actually read by the recipient.