Auto Shop Writer Bulletins

PLEASE read this bulletin completely.  There are several important items here as you enter 2013 !

1.  We have not posted the federal employee tax tables because the rates are still in question.  Hopefully legislation will be passed in the next day or two and then the IRS can issue the new tables which we will update and publish immediately.

2.  Its time to be sure your sales tax rates are accurate for 2013.  This is a multi-step process, but only if you must make changes.

a.  Be sure you go into Tools – Setup – Defaults and change your rates there.

b.  Go into Tools – Lists – Tax Rates and make sure your new rates are listed.  You can simply modify old rates if that is appropriate.

c.  Go into Datamanager, Setup, Change Tax Rates.  You will enter the previous tax rates and the new tax rates for parts and labor.  This will do a mass change on all client records where the tax rates match the previous ones you specify.

3.  Version 9.30.00 is scheduled to be released on January 15.  This is a significant update which includes new screen formats ( full widescreen and tablet/notebook formats plus the existing one ), a fully automated email followup and reminder system, rewards card integration, and a lot more.  The files will be delivered automatically to your computer, though one manual step will be required ( very easy ).  FULL instructions will be posted on January 13 regarding how to complete the install, and how to use many of the new features.

4.  As you know, ASW 9 is fully touch compatible and works with Windows 8 Pro on a tablet.  We have ONE Samsung Series 7 Slate tablet available for resale.  It runs all Windows software, has Windows 8 installed ( and includes a backup installation disk ).  It has a 128 GB solid state drive, uses a fast I5 processor, and has a bright display.  The tablet comes with 2 docks ( 1 for the shop, 1 for home, both designed to add wired networking if you want, an HDMI hookup, and a USB port ).  This is not your typical tablet … it is far more powerful than what you see advertised.  It also includes an extra 32 GB mini storage card, a wireless keyboard, a tablet case, and a carrying case.  The total retail value is approximately $1800, and will come with an ASW client installed so you can use it on your network from the day you receive it.  I will consider all reasonable offers … you can submit them to timstone@masterlinksoftware.com .  This tablet was obtained for testing purposes and has had very light use. 

Thanks for reading this far.  We hope your holidays have been special.

Microsoft is expected to release the new Surface Pro tablet in January.  This is the full Intel processor with a 128 GB solid state drive.  It will be very fast, and clean, running Windows 8 Pro.  We expect this product to be a great option for your business because you can run it wirelessly on your network, and thus you can work with a client at their car, do your inventory right from the stock room, or just go off to a quiet spot to take care of other tasks.

To optimize this device, and the use of Wide Screen computers in the office, in January, Auto Shop Writer 2013 will have 3 “client” ( workstation ) options.  The first is your standard ASW layout and sizing just like you use currently.  The second is a wide screen version, optimized for today’s modern 1920 x 1080 displays.  This will use the full widescreen and have larger fonts for easier reading.  The third will be a subset of the widescreen version optimized for the Surface or other tablets.

2013 DPP participants will receive all 3 clients, and can choose to run the version they prefer on each workstation.  They are totally compatible with the data server, so if one person wants the widescreen version, while another prefers the traditional, that will be fine.  You can use the full Widescreen version on the tablet, or simply use the one that has only tablet related functions.

We think these options will enhance your experience with Auto Shop Writer in 2013.  Of course, we have “many irons in the fire” regarding other new features.