What kind of computer system do I need to run TopView™? 

TopView™ Software requires very little system resources. The minimum system requirements are; Windows® based PC with 128mb RAM. The program itself is very small (about 10mb) but additional storage space is required for project files, and database information. At least 300mb of free storage space is recommended.

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Can I run TopView™ on a Mac? 

No. Unfortunately TopView™ is not Mac compatible.

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Can I run TopView™ on a Windows® Vista machine? 

Yes. TopView™ runs on all Windows® platforms. The only issue we know of when running on a Vista machine is the function of the Help Menu. Instructions for fixing this issue can be found HERE. If you come across any other issue with TopView™ on a Vista Machine, please let us know.

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Is TopView™ hard to learn? 

No. We find most users can successfully use TopView™ after only a few hours. We recommend users complete the tutorials and quick start guides and call with any questions. We encourage users to call with questions and comments so we can learn to make the software easier and more functional.

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Can I use a digitizer with TopView™? 

Yes. TopView™ has been designer to work seamlessly with GTCO Digitizers and Scanners. As a GTCO reseller we are happy to pair your software with a GTCO product. For more information about GTCO Digitizers and Scanners click HERE.

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Do I have to use a digitizer with TopView™? 

No. TopView™ supports several methods of input. As well as using a digitizer, manual input (such as up, down, left, right, angled, etc.) and importing DXF files and plan files (such as Dodge®) are also input methods accepted by TopView™.

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Can I use TopView™ on more than one computer? 

Yes. TopView™ software products utilize a Safe-Net USB Security Key. The security key allows users to install TopView™ on as many computers as you wish, but the software will only run on the computer with the security key attached. This process allows users to install TopView™ on a computer in the office, and also a laptop to bring to jobsite's, then just carry the security key between computers.

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How do I get training for TopView™? 

There are various training options available for TopView™ users. Along with the quick start guides and tutorials available online, information on additional TopView™ Training options can be found HERE.

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Can I return TopView™ if I don't like it? 

Yes. We offer a 30-day money back guarantee to unhappy users. Simply send back your software and receive a full refund (minus shipping costs).

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What makes TopView™ better than other estimating software? 

The greatest features of TopView™ are the ease of use, flexibility and support services. We are always striving to make TopView™ easier to use and more customizable. We use TopView™ in our day to day operations as the main portion of our business so are always looking for improved productivity and efficiency. We also offer support services second to none. We create an interactive relationship with every one of our customers.

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Can I export/import CAD files? 

Yes. TopView™ allows you to import and export DXF files quickly and easily.

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Can I import plans from Dodge® or other similar services? 

Yes. With TopView™ you simply save the file from Dodge® or another similar service and import it into TopView™. You can then use the plans as a reference to generate your roof.

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Which TopView™ Software is right for me? 

TopView™ offers 3 types of estimating software. TopView™ ME for Metal Roofing, TopView™ LE for Shingle and Tile Roofing, and TopView™ SE for Flat Roofing. We recommend perspective users call for a consultation to assure all their estimating needs are met.

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Can I customize the database? 

Yes. TopView™ ships with a generic database to get you started. Once familiar with roof entry, users can define their materials from basic dimensions, to estimating parts, pieces and even labor.

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Will TopView™ estimate detail flashing's? 

Yes. TopView™ can estimate flashing's by several user-defined methods; rounding each run up to full pieces (i.e. full 10 foot lengths), re-using extras (maximized usage) and complete job totals.

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Will TopView™ estimate labor? 

Yes. TopView™ can estimate labor as a line item (or several line items) and calculate the labor by man-hours, man-days, by piece, square, etc.

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Will TopView™ estimate accessories? 

Yes. TopView™ can estimate every item needed to install the roof, right down to the last screw, pop rivet or tube of sealant.

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Can I export information from TopView™ to a spreadsheet such as Excel? 

Yes. TopView™ can export information as a simple text file or a tabbed delimited text file. Either of which can be easily imported into any spreadsheet software.

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When I update TopView™, will it erase my database files? 

No. When you update TopView™ only the program files will change. All user data will remain intact and useable.

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What's included with my purchase of TopView™ 

Because TopView™ is licensed annually, along with the Software Disc and USB Security Key users receive 12 months of customer support services.

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How do I get updates for TopView™? 

TopView™ updates can be downloaded directly from the web as soon as they become available. For instructions on checking for updates, click HERE.

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What kind of support options are available to me? 

TopView™ offers great web resources as well as personalized customer support. For a list of support options, click HERE, or call us at 1.888.264.8865.

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What type of companies use TopView™? 

TopView™ users include manufacturers, distributors, roofing contractors, insurance companies, consultants and construction specifiers. Most major metal manufacturers and distributors use TopView™ software. For a list of TopView™ clients, click HERE.

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What's the best way to get started using TopView™? 

The best way to get started using TopView™ is by going through the quick start guide, and simply using the software. TopView™ features an easy-to-use and intuitive interface, the more comfortable you get with the software the easier it becomes.

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We understand purchasing estimating software is a huge investment. To ensure you make the right choice, TopView™ offers a Competitor Trade-In Program. For more information on trading in your estimating software, click HERE, or call us at 1.888.264.8865.

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Should I back-up my TopView™ files? 

There is always the possibility of data loss when using a computer. To minimize TopView™ data loss, TopView™ has an auto-save feature that saves your job every time you make a change. The auto-save feature will only save project data, here is a list of TopView™ files and folders and what they do:

Projects:
Projects are stored in .DIR folders, the .DIR folders location is user defined (go to View/Settings/Directories in TopView™ to view location).

Materials:
Materials are stored as .M72 and .M73 files, located in the TopView™ root folder (C:/TOPVIEW by default).

Default Header Layout:
The default header layout is stored in the DEFMULT.HDR file, located in the TopView™ root folder (C:/TOPVIEW by default).

Default Project Templates:
The default project templates are stored in .IFO files, located in the TopView™ root folder (C:/TOPVIEW by default).

Borders:
The border information is stored in .BDR, located in the TopView™ root folder (C:/TOPVIEW by default).

Settings:
All TopView™ settings are stored in the TOPVIEW.INI file, located in the WINDOWS or WINNT folder on your hard drive.

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What are some limitations in TopView™ I should be aware of? 

The maximum amount of roof sections that can be drawn in a single project is 1000. The maximum amount of points that can be drawn in a single roof section is 99. When doing very large jobs with many roof sections the program can respond slowly, it is recommended to split very large jobs into a few smaller jobs.

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