PTS Comms Client Installation

PTS allows for tracking a prescriptions progress through the dispensing process using barcodes and scanners. Barcode scanners are connected to pharmacy PCs either directly or via a base station, and software installed on the PC (known as PTS Comms Client) interprets the barcode data and forwards it to the PTS server software for processing.

PTS Comms Client

Pertinent settings during comms client installation.

The comms client software needs to be installed on any and all PCs that will be hosting a barcode scanner or base station.

You can download the installer from the PTS Comms Client Download Page.

Installing the PTS Comms Client

Manual .msi installation

Installation will require admin access on the PC. Double click the .msi file to begin. You will shortly be prompted to review three settings:

• PTS Server Details
  Enter the URL to your PTS application here. This is the same familiar URL used to access your main application in your web browser, and takes the format of http://ServerName/PTSWeb/.
  This setting is absolutely mandatory - the application won't connect if you skip this step or enter the URL incorrectly.
• Username and Password
  PTS offers a means to use a barcode scan as a shortcut to certain system facilities, such as opening the booking in screen. If you intend to use these you'll need to ensure a valid username and password is provided to the comms software with which it can log in to PTS for you. If the suggested username & password no longer work, you can provide working credentials here. This can be compeltely ignored if you have no intention of using barcode shortcuts.
• Non-PTS Barcodes
  The software can attempt to detect when a non-PTS code is scanned and forward it on to another open application, such as your dispensing software. This reduces the need for multiple dedicated barcode scanners. This option is enabled by default but can be turned off here if you have any problems.

Silent .msi installation

The installer can be run silently by passing the value of parameters in the command string: e.g.:

msiexec /i "PTSCommsSetup64.msi" /qn PTSURL=http://MYPTSSERVER/PTSWEB/ PTSSENDKEYS=True WEBUSERID=BOOKIN WEBPASSWORD=Track1ng

If you need to install drivers in addition to the Datalogic and Zebra Drivers which are installed by default, then the command line can be modified to add the Newland &/or Voyager drivers (remove NewlandDrivers or VoyagerDrivers from the command line if not required):

msiexec /i "PTSCommsSetup64.msi" /qn PTSURL=http://MYPTSSERVER/PTSWEB/ PTSSENDKEYS=True WEBUSERID=BOOKIN WEBPASSWORD=Track1ng ADDLOCAL="MainExecutables,DatalogicDrivers,NewlandDrivers,VoyagerDrivers"

Typical vs. Complete

On the next page you'll be asked to specify typical, complete or custom setup type. Typical installs Datalogic and Zebra barcode scanner drivers, complete also installs Voyager drivers.

Configuring barcode scanners for use with PTS

See the Barcode Scanner Configuration page.