Copyright: © 1997-2000 NotePage, Inc.


What is PageGate

PageGate is a sophisticated wireless messaging (paging) application.  The heart of the application is a high throughput paging engine that has the ability to support multiple dialers (modems) and direct cable connections for message delivery

PageGate supports several front-end interfaces (gateways) that can be used alone or in conjunction with each other. This allows PageGate to receive messages from many sources, and deliver the messages to wireless messaging devices (including alphanumeric pagers, numeric pagers, mobile phones, PIMs, etc.)   The front-end interfaces include: NotePager Net, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) windows client that enables an entire network to send messages from its Windows based workstations, a Commandline/Ascii interface that enables many 'off the shelf' and custom applications to send messages to PageGate, an Email gateway interface that enables email messages to be accepted by PageGate, a CGI web server interface that allows messages to be sent directly from web pages, and a TTY/TDD interface which enables PageGate to receive messages from TTY/TDD devices.

PageGate's modularity (PageGate's modules can be run across several separate machines), scalability (direct cable connection and support for multiple dialers), multiple front-end interfaces, and high-end features (group paging, scheduled pages, repeating pages, on-call groups, and ad-hoc paging) makes it a perfect fit for most wireless messaging needs.


General

Group paging - messages can be sent to a predefined group of recipients

Multiple recipients - allows a single message to be sent to more than one recipient and/or group

Intelligent message queuing - messages for the same carrier are grouped together and sent during a single communications session

Dialup or direct connect - PageGate can be connected to a paging terminal by a direct cable connection, or through a modem.

Message splitting - Long messages can be intelligently split into multiple smaller messages

Settable character limits - The maximum number of characters to be sent in a message is settable by carrier and individual recipient

On-call groups - A schedule can be setup for the recipients in a group, allowing PageGate to send messages to only the recipients scheduled to receive messages at that point in time.

TAP/IXO/PET compliant - supports any messaging device that follows one of these standards.  This includes cellular/pcs/digital phones, PIMs, alphanumeric and numeric pagers, PC/PCMCIA cards, bill boards, etc.

Touch-tone message support - supports paging service providers that only accept touch-tone messages for numeric pagers.

Message logging - PageGate's general log keeps a history of all messages sent.  Each dialer can also keep a detailed log of the communication sessions with the paging carriers.

Modular / Scaleable - PageGate's modular architecture allows the application to be run across several computers for high throughput applications.

Reliapage - provides a way for recipients to be aware that a message has been missed.

Requeue messages - missed messages can be requeued for re-transmission to the paging carrier

High throughput - PageGate's intelligent queuing of messages and multiple dialers allows for the delivery of a large number of messages per hour.


Commandline/Ascii

DOS Commandline - messages can be sent from a DOS prompt

Windows Commandline - messages can be sent from a Windows commandline

Polling - a directory can be polled for Ascii text files containing message information

Advanced Polling - message recipients can be defined by text file names or locations.  Multiple files/folders can be scanned for message information

Ad-Hoc recipients - messages can be sent by using PIN numbers (recipients don't need to be setup inside PageGate).  Only available with 5000 user license or greater

Multi-Page recipients - multiple recipients can be specified within a single message

Message Tracking - messages sent via this interface can be tracked via status directories

3rd party application support - messages can be sent from any application that can issue a commandline command (shell command) or create an Ascii text file.

Custom Application Support - this is a popular interface for developers who want an easy way to add paging to their application.


Email Gateway

Forwarding - each recipient can have their messages forwarded to an additional email account

Ad-Hoc recipients - messages can be sent by using PIN numbers (recipients don't need to be setup inside PageGate).  Only available with 5000 user license or greater

Multi-Page recipients - multiple recipients can be specified within a single email message

Automatic Account Creation - recipient accounts created within PageGate will automatically create an account on the mail server.

Email Outcome - the success or failure of messages sent can be automatically returned to the sender via email

Numeric Email Notification - numeric pagers can receive notification of the arrival of email messages

Full Module Integration - integrates with all other PageGate modules for forwarding of messages received via any other interface


Web Gateway

Automatic Web Page Generation - web pages can be created automatically by using template files

Custom Web Page Support - messages can be sent from within custom web pages

Flexible Web Server Support - PageGate can be used with any windows based web server

Ad-Hoc recipients - messages can be sent by using PIN numbers (recipients don't need to be setup inside PageGate).  Only available with 5000 user license or greater

Multi-Page recipients - multiple recipients can be specified within a single message

Drop-Down List Support - web pages with drop down lists of recipients is supported, and is automatically updated

Recipient Verification - users are notified immediately if a message is sent to an invalid recipient


GUI client (NotePager Net)

Local and network recipient lists - on each workstation you can choose recipients from the network recipient list, or from a smaller local recipient list that can be defined for each workstation

Scheduled messages - messages can be scheduled to be sent at a future date/time

Repeating messages - messages can be scheduled to repeat at predefined interval

Multiple recipients - allows a single message to be sent to more than one recipient and/or  group

Pre-programmed messages - on each workstation, up to five pre-programmed messages can be defined

Real-time message status log - each workstation can track the progress of each message from start to finish

Real-time message status counters - displays current number of messages pending, sent, or failed from each workstation

Message character counter - displays the length of the current message

Message history log - displays a history of all messages sent from the workstation

Point and click operation - an intuitive user interface makes NotePager Net very easy to use

Spell check - a spell check option is available on systems running MS Word

Recipient cueing - Recipients may be selected by typing the first few letters of their name

Restricted recipient lists - NotePager Net users can be restricted to only be able to use a local recipient list


Shareware Information

PageGate defaults into a 'shareware mode' until it is registered (purchased).  Registration information can be entered into PageGate's Admin program by choosing the 'Registration' object.  The shareware version of PageGate only allows two recipients to be setup, and will stop itself every 3-5 days.  PageGate's admin program can be used to restart the paging engine after this time period.

Shareware is based on the try it before you buy it theory. This software is not free. You may try it. If you like the software and would like a complete registered version you must contact sales@notepager.net. The registration fee allows us to continue to develop quality products, notify you of updates, and provide technical support. If you have any questions or concerns regarding registration please contact sales@notepager.net . If you use any of NotePage, Inc.'s software and do not register after the trial period it is considered software piracy and it is illegal.


Purchasing

PageGate can be ordered directly from NotePage, Inc:

The most current PageGate pricing can be found on our website:

www.notepager.net/pricing.htm

www.notepager.com/pricing.htm

www.notepage.net/pricing.htm

NotePage, Inc.

291 Rockland Street

Suite 13

Hanover, MA 02339

Phone (781) 829-0500

Fax (781) 582-8701

Accepted Payment forms are:

Pre-payment

COD Company Check (continental US only)

MasterCard

Visa

Discover

(see on-line ordering below for American Express or Purchase Orders)

All payments are in US Dollars

PageGate can be ordered on-line at:

www.notepager.net/purchase.htm

www.notepager.com/purchase.htm

www.notepage.net/purchase.htm

Accepted Payment forms are:

MasterCard

Visa

Discover

American Express

Purchase Orders

PageGate can be purchased through a NotePage authorized reseller, who can also be contracted for the installation of our products.  Please contact us for a reseller in your area.


Contact Information

NotePage, Inc.

291 Rockland Street

Suite 13

Hanover, MA  02339

USA

Mailing Address

PO Box 296

Hanover, MA  02339

web 	www.notepager.net

email	sales@notepager.net

phone	(781) 829-0500

fax	(781) 582-1869 or (781) 826-3432


Version Information

PageGate Help File

For PageGate version 3.1

Copyright 1997-2000 NotePage, Inc.


Overview

PageGate is designed to be a highly modular application.  This design allows PageGate's modules to be run across multiple computers.  The following installation information covers installation of PageGate on a single computer.  For information on installing and running PageGate across multiple computers, please refer to the section titled 'Advanced Installation'.

In a PageGate Server installation, the following modules are installed:

PageGate Manager - This is the control module for PageGate.  It is constantly running in the background whenever the PageGate application is running.  It monitors, starts, and stops the other PageGate modules.

PageGate Scheduler - This module processes all messages sent by PageGate.  It manages scheduled and repeating messages, in addition to scheduling the delivery of each message by a dialer.

PageGate Dialers - The dialers are responsible for the actual delivery of the messages to a paging carrier(s).

PageGate Interfaces - These modules (GetAscii, GetMail, and GetWeb) accept messages from various sources, into the PageGate application.

PageGate Admin - The administration program is used to setup, control, and maintain the PageGate application.

PageGate Monitor - The monitoring application allows for real-time monitoring of the PageGate application from the local machine, or from any other workstation that is connected to the paging server via TCP/IP.


System Requirements

Minimum requirements to run PageGate:

Operating System:  Windows 95, 98, or NT (server or workstation)

Processor:  Pentium 100Mhz

Memory:  32 Meg more than what is needed to operate the computer without PageGate (typically 64 Meg for Windows 95/98 or 96 Meg for Windows NT on a bare system)

Storage:  50 Meg of free disk space (for application and database)

Communications:  300 baud or faster modem for dialup connections, or a serial cable for direct connections


Pre-installation

There are a few things that should be verified and setup before the installation of PageGate:

1. If you are upgrading from a previous registered version of PageGate, be sure to obtain a new registration key for PageGate BEFORE installing over your existing version of PageGate.

2. Be sure your hardware meets the minimum specs for PageGate version 3.0

3. Be sure the computer that PageGate is to be installed on is configured for your network.  The monitoring program uses TCP/IP.  Although TCP/IP is not required for running PageGate, it is recommended that it be installed on the PageGate server so the monitoring program can be used.

4. Be sure that you have sufficient permissions (if applicable) to install new programs on the chosen computer.

5. If PageGate is to be run as a Windows NT system service, be sure you have an account setup with 'log on as a service' rights.  Please refer to the section titled 'Run Styles'  for more information.

6. In many cases, you will be asked to restart your computer after the installation of PageGate.  If so, this must be done before PageGate is run.  Be sure that you install PageGate at a time when this can be done.

7. ALWAYS be sure to have a complete backup of your system before installing ANY new software! The installation of PageGate is NOT and exception to this rule.


Upgrading

To upgrade from PageGate version 2.x follow these instructions:

1.  IMPORTANT - If you are currently running a registered version of PageGate, be sure to obtain a registration key for version 3.x BEFORE continuing.

2.  Uninstall your current version of PageGate by using the 'Add/Remove Programs' utility in the Windows control panel.  This will uninstall the program files from version 2.x, but will leave your data intact.

3.  Next, use the regular installation instructions found later in this section.

To upgrade from PageGate version 3.x (to a newer version of 3.x)

1.  Run the 'Uninstall PageGate' program from the PageGate program group found in the Windows start menu.

2.  Choose the first option: 'Uninstall Application Files Only'.  This will uninstall the program files from the previous version of PageGate, but leave your data intact.

3.  If you are instructed to use the 'Add/Remove Programs' utility from the Windows control panel to complete the uninstallation, do this now.

4.  Next, use the regular installation instructions found later in this section.


CD-Rom Installation

1.  Insert the PageGate CD-Rom into your computer.

2.  PageGate's setup routine will (on most computers) automatically start.  If the setup program starts, go to step 3 below.  If not, click on the Windows start button, and then choose 'Run' from the menu.  Type in 'd:\setup' without the quotes (in this example the CD-Rom drive letter is 'd'. If your CD-Rom drive letter is different, use it instead).  Next hit the 'OK' button.

3.  You will be presented with the PageGate welcome screen.  Hit 'OK' to continue

4.  The next screen will give you four options as to which part of PageGate you want to install.  To install PageGate for the first time, you should choose the first option.  After making your selection, hit 'OK'.

5.  On the next screen you can specify where you want PageGate installed.  The default install location is C:\Program Files\PageGate\. You can change the path by hitting the 'Change Directory' button.  To accept the install location, click on the button with the computer graphic on it.

6.  You will now be prompted for the name of a program group to be created in the Windows start menu.  Take the default by hitting the 'Continue' button.

7.  The setup program will now copy the PageGate program and support files to your computer.  This can take a few minutes.  If you encounter any problems during this part of the installation, please refer to the 'Installation Troubleshooting' section of the manual.

8.  The next screen will tell you that PageGate has been successfully installed.  Hit the 'OK' button to continue.

9.  In many cases, your computer will want to be restarted after the installation of PageGate.  If you are prompted to do so, you must restart your computer before running PageGate.


Single executable (.exe) installation

1.  Run the executable (pgv3.exe)

2.  A window should appear titled 'WinZip Self-Extractor (pgv3.exe)'.  Hit the 'Setup' button to continue.

3.  You will be presented with the PageGate welcome screen.  Hit 'OK' to continue

4.  The next screen will give you four options as to which part of PageGate you want to install.  To install PageGate for the first time, you should choose the first option.  After making your selection, hit 'OK'.

5.  On the next screen you can specify where you want PageGate installed.  The default install location is C:\Program Files\PageGate\. You can change the path by hitting the 'Change Directory' button.  To accept the install location, click on the button with the computer graphic on it.

6.  You will now be prompted for the name of a program group to be created in the Windows start menu.  Take the default by hitting the 'Continue' button.

7.  The setup program will now copy the PageGate program and support files to your computer.  This can take a few minutes.  If you encounter any problems during this part of the installation, please refer to the 'Installation Troubleshooting' section of the manual.

8.  The next screen will tell you that PageGate has been successfully installed.  Hit the 'OK' button to continue.

9.  In many cases, your computer will want to be restarted after the installation of PageGate.  If you are prompted to do so, you must restart your computer before running PageGate.

10.  After the installation is complete, you may again see the original 'WinZip Self-Extractor (pgv3.exe)' window.  This window will disappear after several seconds, or if you choose to restart your computer.


Single archive (.zip) installation

1.  To extract the PageGate installation files from the archive (.zip) file, you will need a program such as WinZip or PKZip, to extract the files.  Extract the contents of the .zip file into a temporary directory by using one of these utilities.

2.  Run the file named setup.exe from the location where you extracted PageGate's files.

3.  You will be presented with the PageGate welcome screen.  Hit 'OK' to continue

4.  The next screen will give you four options as to which part of PageGate you want to install.  To install PageGate for the first time, you should choose the first option.  After making your selection, hit 'OK'.

5.  On the next screen you can specify where you want PageGate installed.  The default install location is C:\Program Files\PageGate\. You can change the path by hitting the 'Change Directory' button.  To accept the install location, click on the button with the computer graphic on it.

6.  You will now be prompted for the name of a program group to be created in the Windows start menu.  Take the default by hitting the 'Continue' button.

7.  The setup program will now copy the PageGate program and support files to your computer.  This can take a few minutes.  If you encounter any problems during this part of the installation, please refer to the 'Installation Troubleshooting' section of the manual.

8.  The next screen will tell you that PageGate has been successfully installed.  Hit the 'OK' button to continue.

9.  In many cases, your computer will want to be restarted after the installation of PageGate.  If you are prompted to do so, you must restart your computer before running PageGate.


Post-installation

1.  If you installed from CD-Rom, remove the CD and keep it in a safe place.  You will need it again if you ever need to reinstall PageGate, or want to install the PageGate Administration program, the PageGate Monitor program, or the NotePager Net (GUI) client on a workstation.

2.  If you installed PageGate from a single downloaded file (pgv3.exe or pgv3.zip), be sure to make a copy of the file and store it somewhere you can find it later. You will need it again if you ever need to reinstall PageGate, or want to install the PageGate Administration Program, the PageGate Monitor program, or the NotePager Net (GUI) client on a workstation.

3.  After PageGate is successfully installed, please continue to the section 'Running PageGate for the first time' for important information on the setup and configuration of PageGate.


Advanced Installation

PageGate's flexibility and scalability is due to its modular design.  The modularity of PageGate allows each of its modules to be run on a separate computer.  Here is an example:

- The PageGate Scheduler module and the PageGate Database run on the production file server.

- The GetMail module runs on the mail server

- The GetWeb module runs on the web server

- 1 to 16 Dialer modules run on a communications server

- The PageGate Administration and Monitoring programs run on an administrator's workstation

- The NotePager Net GUI client runs on several workstations on the LAN

In contrast, all of the above modules can run on a single workstation or server.

Steps to install PageGate's modules on additional computers:

1.  Run PageGate's setup program.  Install the PageGate application on the new workstation or server (refer to the regular installation instructions for details).

2.  Run PageGate on the new computer.

3.  The first time PageGate is run, you will be given the 'PageGate Setup Screen' (this screen can be accessed later by choosing 'Settings' from the 'Program' object in the Admin program).

4.  Set the 'Program Directory' to where you installed PageGate on the local machine.

5.  Set the 'Database Directory' to the same location as in the existing PageGate installation (this would need to be a shared folder on the network).

6.  Set the 'Log Directory' to the same location as in the existing PageGate installation (this would need to be a shared folder on the network).

7.  Choose which of PageGate's modules are to run on this computer.  Be sure to disable the modules you choose on any existing PageGate servers.  If you are installing PageGate simply to use the Administration program, leave all the module boxes unchecked.

8.  Apply your changes.  PageGate will now start..

9.  Use the above procedure on each computer that will run one or more of PageGate's modules.


Installation troubleshooting

Problem:  Any number of different problems

Solution:  Be sure that there are no other programs running when you install PageGate.  There may be programs running even if you don't see them in your task bar.  Pressing <ctrl><alt><del> will bring up a list of running programs in Windows 95 and 98.  In Windows NT you can choose 'Task Manager' after hitting <ctrl><alt><del> for similar information.  Stop any program that you believe is causing the conflict.  WARNING: this should only be done by an experienced user.  WARNING: Randomly ending tasks can lock up your computer, lose data or worse.  Please consult with and experienced technician before killing any processes.  A clean reboot can sometimes also help.  Holding down the shift key while windows is starting will stop some programs from starting that automatically load at startup.  Try re-running the PageGate setup program.

Problem:  The setup program does not fully start, or the setup program for a completely different application starts

Solution: clear out the files from your temporary directory.  In Windows 95 and 98 the default location of the temporary directory is C:\Windows\Temp.  In Windows NT it is C:\Temp.  Also move, rename, or delete any existing files in your Windows or Winnt directory named setup.exe, setup1.exe or setup.lst.  Try re-running the PageGate setup program.

Problem:  The install program says it can't replace a file because it is in use

Solution:  See the first item above regarding other programs that are running while trying to install PageGate.  If that doesn't help, try to rename the existing file that is reported to be in use (moving or deleting the file usually won't work).  In most cases you will find the offending file in the C:\Windows\System or the C:\Winnt\System32 directory.  Try re-running the PageGate setup program.

Problem:  The install program still says that it can't replace a file because it is in use

Solution: - Windows 9x:  Don't try this without the help of an experienced Windows administrator.  Restart your computer and enter the 'Command Prompt Only' mode.  Rename the file that is causing the problem.  Restart windows.  You may receive some error messages on startup.  Continue past the errors if possible.  If Windows won't start, reboot, startup in 'Command Prompt Only' mode again and put the files back.  Otherwise, you should now be able to successfully run the install program.  Be sure to reboot after the installation is finished.

Solution: - Windows NT:  Don't try this without the help of an experienced Windows administrator.  Sometimes the file causing the problem is in use by a Windows NT system service (i.e. some backup programs that run as a service use the same MS Jet database drivers that PageGate does).  From the 'Services' icon in the control panel, try stopping any services that may be using the file in question.  WARNINNG: Stopping some services can lock up your computer, lose data or worse.  Please consult with and experienced technician before stopping any services.


System Requirements

Minimum requirements to run PageGate Admin:

Operating System:  Windows 95, 98, or NT (server or workstation)

Processor:  Pentium

Memory:  8 Meg more than what is needed to operate the computer without PG Admin (typically 32 Meg for Windows 95/98 or 64 Meg for Windows NT on a bare system)

Storage:  10 Meg of free disk space


Pre-installation

There are a few things that should be verified and setup before the installation of PG Admin:

1.  Be sure your hardware meets the minimum specs for PageGate Admin

2.  If you are installing PG Admin on any other computer than the one  running the PageGate server application, be sure the computer is configured for your network.  PG Admin must access the PageGate database through your LAN (Local Area Network).

3.  Be sure that you have sufficient permissions (if applicable) to install new programs on the chosen computer.

4.  In many cases, you will be asked to restart your computer after the installation of PG Admin.  If so, this must be done before PG Admin is run.  Be sure that you install PG Admin at a time when this can be done.

5.  ALWAYS be sure to have a complete backup of your system before installing ANY new software! The installation of PG Admin is NOT and exception to this rule.


CD-Rom installation

1.  Insert the PageGate CD-Rom into your computer.

2.  PageGate's setup routine will (on most computers) automatically start.  If the setup program starts, go to step 3 below.  If not, click on the Windows start button, and then choose 'Run' from the menu.  Type in 'd:\setup' without the quotes (in this example the CD-Rom drive letter is 'd'. If your CD-Rom drive letter is different, use it instead).  Next hit the 'OK' button.

3.  You will be presented with the PageGate welcome screen.  Hit 'OK' to continue

4.  The next screen will give you four options as to which part of PageGate you want to install.  To install PG Admin, choose the second option.  After making your selection, hit 'OK'.

5.  On the next screen you can specify where you want PG Admin installed.  The default install location is C:\Program Files\PageGate\. You can change the path by hitting the 'Change Directory' button.  To accept the install location, click on the button with the computer graphic on it.

6.  You will now be prompted for the name of a program group to be created in the Windows start menu.  Take the default by hitting the 'Continue' button.

7.  The setup program will now copy the PG Admin program and support files to your computer.  This can take a few minutes.  If you encounter any problems during this part of the installation, please refer to the 'Installation Troubleshooting' section of the manual.

8.  The next screen will tell you that PG Admin has been successfully installed.  Hit the 'OK' button to continue.

9.  In many cases, your computer will want to be restarted after the installation of PG Admin.  If you are prompted to do so, you must restart your computer before running PG Admin.


Single executable (.exe) installation

1.  Run the executable (pgv3.exe)

2.  A Window should appear titled 'WinZip Self-Extractor (pgv3.exe)'.  Hit the 'Setup' button to continue.

3.  You will be presented with the PageGate welcome screen.  Hit 'OK' to continue

4.  The next screen will give you four options as to which part of PageGate you want to install.  To install PG Admin, choose the second option.  After making your selection, hit 'OK'.

5.  On the next screen you can specify where you want PG Admin installed.  The default install location is C:\Program Files\PageGate\. You can change the path by hitting the 'Change Directory' button.  To accept the install location, click on the button with the computer graphic on it.

6.  You will now be prompted for the name of a program group to be created in the Windows start menu.  Take the default by hitting the 'Continue' button.

7.  The setup program will now copy the PG Admin program and support files to your computer.  This can take a few minutes.  If you encounter any problems during this part of the installation, please refer to the 'Installation Troubleshooting' section of the manual.

8.  The next screen will tell you that PG Admin has been successfully installed.  Hit the 'OK' button to continue.

9.  In many cases, your computer will want to be restarted after the installation of PG Admin.  If you are prompted to do so, you must restart your computer before running PG Admin.

10.  After the installation is complete, you may again see the original 'WinZip Self-Extractor (pgv3.exe)' window.  This window will disappear after several seconds, or if you choose to restart your computer.


Single archive (.zip) installation

1.  To extract the PG Admin installation files from the archive (.zip) file, you will need a program such as WinZip or PKZip, to extract the file.  Extract the contents of the .zip file into a temporary directory by using one of these utilities.

2.  Run the file named setup.exe from the location where you extracted the files.

3.  You will be presented with the PageGate welcome screen.  Hit 'OK' to continue

4.  The next screen will give you four options as to which part of PageGate you want to install.  To install PG Admin, choose the second option.  After making your selection, hit 'OK'.

5.  On the next screen you can specify where you want PG Admin installed.  The default install location is C:\Program Files\PageGate\. You can change the path by hitting the 'Change Directory' button.  To accept the install location, click on the button with the computer graphic on it.

6.  You will now be prompted for the name of a program group to be created in the Windows start menu.  Take the default by hitting the 'Continue' button.

7.  The setup program will now copy the PG Admin program and support files to your computer.  This can take a few minutes.  If you encounter any problems during this part of the installation, please refer to the 'Installation Troubleshooting' section of the manual.

8.  The next screen will tell you that PG Admin has been successfully installed.  Hit the 'OK' button to continue.

9.  In many cases, your computer will want to be restarted after the installation of PG Admin.  If you are prompted to do so, you must restart your computer before running PG Admin.


Post-installation

1.  If you installed from CD-Rom, remove the CD and keep it in a safe place.  You will need it again if you ever need to reinstall PageGate, or want to install either the PageGate Monitor program, or the NotePager Net (GUI) client on a workstation.

2.  If you installed PG Admin from a single downloaded file (pgv3.exe or pgv3.zip), be sure to make a copy of the file and store it somewhere you can find it later. You will need it again if you ever need to reinstall PageGate, or want to install the PageGate Administration program, the PageGate Monitor program, or the NotePager Net (GUI) client on a workstation.


Installation troubleshooting

Problem:  Any number of different problems

Solution:  Be sure that there are no other programs running when you install PageGate.  There may be programs running even if you don't see them in your task bar.  Pressing <ctrl><alt><del> will bring up a list of running programs in Windows 95 and 98.  In Windows NT you can choose 'Task Manager' after hitting <ctrl><alt><del> for similar information.  Stop any program that you believe is causing the conflict.  WARNING: this should only be done by an experienced user.  WARNING: Randomly ending tasks can lock up your computer, lose data or worse.  Please consult with and experienced technician before killing any processes.  A clean reboot can sometimes also help.  Holding down the shift key while windows is starting will stop some programs from starting that automatically load at startup.  Try re-running the PageGate setup program.

Problem:  The setup program does not fully start, or the setup program for a completely different application starts

Solution: clear out the files from your temporary directory.  In Windows 95 and 98 the default location of the temporary directory is C:\Windows\Temp.  In Windows NT it is C:\Temp.  Also move, rename, or delete any existing files in your Windows or Winnt directory named setup.exe, setup1.exe or setup.lst.  Try re-running the PageGate setup program.

Problem:  The install program says it can't replace a file because it is in use

Solution:  See the first item above regarding other programs that are running while trying to install PageGate.  If that doesn't help, try to rename the existing file that is reported to be in use (moving or deleting the file usually won't work).  In most cases you will find the offending file in the C:\Windows\System or the C:\Winnt\System32 directory.  Try re-running the PageGate setup program.

Problem:  The install program still says that it can't replace a file because it is in use

Solution: - Windows 9x:  Don't try this without the help of an experienced Windows administrator.  Restart your computer and enter the 'Command Prompt Only' mode.  Rename the file that is causing the problem.  Restart windows.  You may receive some error messages on startup.  Continue past the errors if possible.  If Windows won't start, reboot, startup in 'Command Prompt Only' mode again and put the files back.  Otherwise, you should now be able to successfully run the install program.  Be sure to reboot after the installation is finished.

Solution: - Windows NT:  Don't try this without the help of an experienced Windows administrator.  Sometimes the file causing the problem is in use by a Windows NT system service (i.e. some backup programs that run as a service use the same MS Jet database drivers that PageGate does).  From the 'Services' icon in the control panel, try stopping any services that may be using the file in question.  WARNINNG: Stopping some services can lock up your computer, lose data or worse.  Please consult with and experienced technician before stopping any services.


System requirements

Minimum requirements to run PageGate Monitor:

Operating System:  Windows 95, 98, or NT (server or workstation)

Processor:  Pentium

Memory:  4 Meg more than what is needed to operate the computer without PG Monitor (typically 32 Meg for Windows 95/98 or 64 Meg for Windows NT on a bare system)

Storage:  10 Meg of free disk space

Communications:  TCP/IP for communications with PageGate server


Pre-installation

There are a few things that should be verified and setup before the installation of PG Monitor:

1.  Be sure your hardware meets the minimum specs for PG Monitor

2.  Be sure the computer that PG Monitor is to be installed on is configured for your network.  The monitoring program uses TCP/IP.  Although TCP/IP is not required for running PageGate, it is recommended that it be installed on the PageGate server so the monitoring program can be used.

3.  Be sure that you have sufficient permissions (if applicable) to install new programs on the chosen computer.

4.  In many cases, you will be asked to restart your computer after the installation of PG Monitor.  If so, this must be done before PG Monitor is run.  Be sure that you install PG Monitor at a time when this can be done.

5.  ALWAYS be sure to have a complete backup of your system before installing ANY new software! The installation of PG Monitor is NOT and exception to this rule.


CD-Rom installation

1.  Insert the PageGate CD-Rom into your computer.

2.  PageGate's setup routine will (on most computers) automatically start.  If the setup program starts, go to step 3 below.  If not, click on the Windows start button, and then choose 'Run' from the menu.  Type in 'd:\setup' without the quotes (in this example the CD-Rom drive letter is 'd'. If your CD-Rom drive letter is different, use it instead).  Next hit the 'OK' button.

3.  You will be presented with the PageGate welcome screen.  Hit 'OK' to continue

4.  The next screen will give you four options as to which part of PageGate you want to install.  To install PG Monitor, choose the third option.  After making your selection, hit 'OK'.

5.  On the next screen you can specify where you want PG Monitor installed.  The default install location is C:\Program Files\PageGate\. You can change the path by hitting the 'Change Directory' button.  To accept the install location, click on the button with the computer graphic on it.

6.  You will now be prompted for the name of a program group to be created in the Windows start menu.  Take the default by hitting the 'Continue' button.

7.  The setup program will now copy the PG Monitor program and support files to your computer.  This can take a few minutes.  If you encounter any problems during this part of the installation, please refer to the 'Installation Troubleshooting' section of the manual.

8.  The next screen will tell you that PG Monitor has been successfully installed.  Hit the 'OK' button to continue.

9.  In many cases, your computer will want to be restarted after the installation of PG Monitor.  If you are prompted to do so, you must restart your computer before running PG Monitor.


Single executable (.exe) installation

1.  Run the executable (pgv3.exe)

2.  A Window should appear titled 'WinZip Self-Extractor (pgv3.exe)'.  Hit the 'Setup' button to continue.

3.  You will be presented with the PageGate welcome screen.  Hit 'OK' to continue

4.  The next screen will give you four options as to which part of PageGate you want to install.  To install PG Monitor, choose the third option.  After making your selection, hit 'OK'.

5.  On the next screen you can specify where you want PG Monitor installed.  The default install location is C:\Program Files\PageGate\. You can change the path by hitting the 'Change Directory' button.  To accept the install location, click on the button with the computer graphic on it.

6.  You will now be prompted for the name of a program group to be created in the Windows start menu.  Take the default by hitting the 'Continue' button.

7.  The setup program will now copy the PG Monitor program and support files to your computer.  This can take a few minutes.  If you encounter any problems during this part of the installation, please refer to the 'Installation Troubleshooting' section of the manual.

8.  The next screen will tell you that PG Monitor has been successfully installed.  Hit the 'OK' button to continue.

9.  In many cases, your computer will want to be restarted after the installation of PG Monitor.  If you are prompted to do so, you must restart your computer before running PG Monitor.

10.  After the installation is complete, you may again see the original 'WinZip Self-Extractor (pgv3.exe)' window.  This window will disappear after several seconds, or if you choose to restart your computer.


Single archive (.zip) installation

1.  To extract the PG Monitor installation files from the archive (.zip) file, you will need a program such as WinZip or PKZip, to extract the file.  Extract the contents of the .zip file into a temporary directory by using one of these utilities.

2.  Run the file named setup.exe from the location where you extracted the files.

3.  You will be presented with the PageGate welcome screen.  Hit 'OK' to continue

4.  The next screen will give you four options as to which part of PageGate you want to install.  To install PG Monitor, choose the third option.  After making your selection, hit 'OK'.

5.  On the next screen you can specify where you want PG Monitor installed.  The default install location is C:\Program Files\PageGate\. You can change the path by hitting the 'Change Directory' button.  To accept the install location, click on the button with the computer graphic on it.

6.  You will now be prompted for the name of a program group to be created in the Windows start menu.  Take the default by hitting the 'Continue' button.

7.  The setup program will now copy the PG Monitor program and support files to your computer.  This can take a few minutes.  If you encounter any problems during this part of the installation, please refer to the 'Installation Troubleshooting' section of the manual.

8.  The next screen will tell you that PG Monitor has been successfully installed.  Hit the 'OK' button to continue.

9.  In many cases, your computer will want to be restarted after the installation of PG Monitor.  If you are prompted to do so, you must restart your computer before running PG Monitor.


Post-installation

1.  If you installed from CD-Rom, remove the CD and keep it in a safe place.  You will need it again if you ever need to reinstall PageGate, or want to install either the PageGate Monitor program, or the NotePager Net (GUI) client on a workstation.

2.  If you installed PG Monitor from a single downloaded file (pgv3.exe or pgv3.zip), be sure to make a copy of the file and store it somewhere you can find it later. You will need it again if you ever need to reinstall PageGate, or want to install the PageGate Administration program, the PageGate Monitor program, or the NotePager Net (GUI) client on a workstation.

3.  TCP/IP must be installed and operational on both the PageGate server computer and the workstation running PG Monitor.  The Windows ping utility should be used to verify connectivity.


Installation troubleshooting

Problem:  Any number of different problems

Solution:  Be sure that there are no other programs running when you install PageGate.  There may be programs running even if you don't see them in your task bar.  Pressing <ctrl><alt><del> will bring up a list of running programs in Windows 95 and 98.  In Windows NT you can choose 'Task Manager' after hitting <ctrl><alt><del> for similar information.  Stop any program that you believe is causing the conflict.  WARNING: this should only be done by an experienced user.  WARNING: Randomly ending tasks can lock up your computer, lose data or worse.  Please consult with and experienced technician before killing any processes.  A clean reboot can sometimes also help.  Holding down the shift key while windows is starting will stop some programs from starting that automatically load at startup.  Try re-running the PageGate setup program.

Problem:  The setup program does not fully start, or the setup program for a completely different application starts

Solution: clear out the files from your temporary directory.  In Windows 95 and 98 the default location of the temporary directory is C:\Windows\Temp.  In Windows NT it is C:\Temp.  Also move, rename, or delete any existing files in your Windows or Winnt directory named setup.exe, setup1.exe or setup.lst.  Try re-running the PageGate setup program.

Problem:  The install program says it can't replace a file because it is in use

Solution:  See the first item above regarding other programs that are running while trying to install PageGate.  If that doesn't help, try to rename the existing file that is reported to be in use (moving or deleting the file usually won't work).  In most cases you will find the offending file in the C:\Windows\System or the C:\Winnt\System32 directory.  Try re-running the PageGate setup program.

Problem:  The install program still says that it can't replace a file because it is in use

Solution: - Windows 9x:  Don't try this without the help of an experienced Windows administrator.  Restart your computer and enter the 'Command Prompt Only' mode.  Rename the file that is causing the problem.  Restart windows.  You may receive some error messages on startup.  Continue past the errors if possible.  If Windows won't start, reboot, startup in 'Command Prompt Only' mode again and put the files back.  Otherwise, you should now be able to successfully run the install program.  Be sure to reboot after the installation is finished.

Solution: - Windows NT:  Don't try this without the help of an experienced Windows administrator.  Sometimes the file causing the problem is in use by a Windows NT system service (i.e. some backup programs that run as a service use the same MS Jet database drivers that PageGate does).  From the 'Services' icon in the control panel, try stopping any services that may be using the file in question.  WARNINNG: Stopping some services can lock up your computer, lose data or worse.  Please consult with and experienced technician before stopping any services.


System Requirements

Minimum requirements to run NotePager Net (GUI) client:

Operating System:  Windows 95, 98, or NT (server or workstation)

Processor:  Pentium

Memory:  8 Meg more than what is needed to operate the computer without NotePager Net (typically 32 Meg for Windows 95/98 or 64 Meg for Windows NT on a bare system)

Storage:  10 Meg of free disk space

Communications:  Network access to the PageGate database


Pre-installation

There are a few things you should verify before installing the NotePager Net client:

1. The PageGate paging server must be installed and operational before the NotePager Net client is installed.

2. The workstation must have network access to the paging database (pagegate.mdb).  The

workstation must have read, write, and change permissions to this file.

3. If you plan to use the spell-checking feature, Microsoft Word 97 must be installed on the workstation.

4. If application or database passwords have been defined  in the PG Admin program, they will be needed to access the application and the PageGate database.


CD-Rom installation

1.  Insert the PageGate CD-Rom into your computer.

2.  PageGate's setup routine will (on most computers) automatically start.  If the setup program starts, go to step 3 below.  If not, click on the Windows start button, and then choose 'Run' from the menu.  Type in 'd:\setup' without the quotes (in this example the CD-Rom drive letter is 'd'. If your CD-Rom drive letter is different, use it instead).  Next hit the 'OK' button.

3.  You will be presented with the PageGate welcome screen.  Hit 'OK' to continue

4.  The next screen will give you four options as to which part of PageGate you want to install.  To install the NotePager Net client, choose the last option.  After making your selection, hit 'OK'.

5.  On the next screen you can specify where you want the NotePager Net client installed.  The default install location is C:\Program Files\NotePager Net\. You can change the path by hitting the 'Change Directory' button.  To accept the install location, click on the button with the computer graphic on it.

6.  You will now be prompted for the name of a program group to be created in the Windows start menu.  Take the default by hitting the 'Continue' button.

7.  The setup program will now copy the NotePager Net client program and support files to your computer.  This can take a few minutes.  If you encounter any problems during this part of the installation, please refer to the 'Installation Troubleshooting' section of the manual.

8.  The next screen will tell you that the NotePager Net client has been successfully installed.  Hit the 'OK' button to continue.

9.  In many cases, your computer will want to be restarted after the installation of the NotePager Net client.  If you are prompted to do so, you must restart your computer before running it.


Single executable (.exe) installation

1.  Run the executable (pgv3.exe)

2.  A window should appear titled 'WinZip Self-Extractor (pgv3.exe)'.  Hit the 'Setup' button to continue.

3.  You will be presented with the PageGate welcome screen.  Hit 'OK' to continue

4.  The next screen will give you four options as to which part of PageGate you want to install.  To install the NotePager  Net client, choose the last option.  After making your selection, hit 'OK'.

5.  On the next screen you can specify where you want the NotePager Net client installed.  The default install location is C:\Program Files\NotePager Net\. You can change the path by hitting the 'Change Directory' button.  To accept the install location, click on the button with the computer graphic on it.

6.  You will now be prompted for the name of a program group to be created in the Windows start menu.  Take the default by hitting the 'Continue' button.

7.  The setup program will now copy the NotePager Net client program and support files to your computer.  This can take a few minutes.  If you encounter any problems during this part of the installation, please refer to the 'Installation Troubleshooting' section of the manual.

8.  The next screen will tell you that the NotePager Net client has been successfully installed.  Hit the 'OK' button to continue.

9.  In many cases, your computer will want to be restarted after the installation of the NotePager Net client.  If you are prompted to do so, you must restart your computer before running the it.

10.  After the installation is complete, you may again see the original 'WinZip Self-Extractor (pgv3.exe)' window.  This window will disappear after several seconds, or if you choose to restart your computer.


Single archive (.zip) installation

1.  To extract the NotePager Net installation files from the archive (.zip) file, you will need a program such as WinZip or PKZip, to extract the file.  Extract the contents of the .zip file into a temporary directory by using one of these utilities.

2.  Run the file named setup.exe from the location where you extracted the files.

3.  You will be presented with the PageGate welcome screen.  Hit 'OK' to continue

4.  The next screen will give you four options as to which part of PageGate you want to install.  To install the NotePager Net client, choose the last option.  After making your selection, hit 'OK'.

5.  On the next screen you can specify where you want the NotePager Net client installed.  The default install location is C:\Program Files\NotePager Net\. You can change the path by hitting the 'Change Directory' button.  To accept the install location, click on the button with the computer graphic on it.

6.  You will now be prompted for the name of a program group to be created in the Windows start menu.  Take the default by hitting the 'Continue' button.

7.  The setup program will now copy the NotePager Net client program and support files to your computer.  This can take a few minutes.  If you encounter any problems during this part of the installation, please refer to the 'Installation Troubleshooting' section of the manual.

8.  The next screen will tell you that the NotePager Net client has been successfully installed.  Hit the 'OK' button to continue.

9.  In many cases, your computer will want to be restarted after the installation of the NotePager Net client.  If you are prompted to do so, you must restart your computer before running it.


Post-installation

1.  If you installed from CD-Rom, remove the CD and keep it in a safe place.  You will need it again if you ever need to reinstall PageGate, or want to install either the PageGate Monitor program, or the NotePager Net (GUI) client on a workstation.

2.  If you installed NotePager Net from a single downloaded file (pgv3.exe or pgv3.zip), be sure to make a copy of the file and store it somewhere you can find it later. You will need it again if you ever need to reinstall PageGate, or want to install the PageGate Administration program, the PageGate Monitor program, or the NotePager Net (GUI) client on a workstation.


Installation troubleshooting

Problem:  Any number of different problems

Solution:  Be sure that there are no other programs running when you install PageGate.  There may be programs running even if you don't see them in your task bar.  Pressing <ctrl><alt><del> will bring up a list of running programs in Windows 95 and 98.  In Windows NT you can choose 'Task Manager' after hitting <ctrl><alt><del> for similar information.  Stop any program that you believe is causing the conflict.  WARNING: this should only be done by an experienced user.  WARNING: Randomly ending tasks can lock up your computer, lose data or worse.  Please consult with and experienced technician before killing any processes.  A clean reboot can sometimes also help.  Holding down the shift key while windows is starting will stop some programs from starting that automatically load at startup.  Try re-running the PageGate setup program.

Problem:  The setup program does not fully start, or the setup program for a completely different application starts

Solution: clear out the files from your temporary directory.  In Windows 95 and 98 the default location of the temporary directory is C:\Windows\Temp.  In Windows NT it is C:\Temp.  Also move, rename, or delete any existing files in your Windows or Winnt directory named setup.exe, setup1.exe or setup.lst.  Try re-running the PageGate setup program.

Problem:  The install program says it can't replace a file because it is in use

Solution:  See the first item above regarding other programs that are running while trying to install PageGate.  If that doesn't help, try to rename the existing file that is reported to be in use (moving or deleting the file usually won't work).  In most cases you will find the offending file in the C:\Windows\System or the C:\Winnt\System32 directory.  Try re-running the PageGate setup program.

Problem:  The install program still says that it can't replace a file because it is in use

Solution: - Windows 9x:  Don't try this without the help of an experienced Windows administrator.  Restart your computer and enter the 'Command Prompt Only' mode.  Rename the file that is causing the problem.  Restart windows.  You may receive some error messages on startup.  Continue past the errors if possible.  If Windows won't start, reboot, startup in 'Command Prompt Only' mode again and put the files back.  Otherwise, you should now be able to successfully run the install program.  Be sure to reboot after the installation is finished.

Solution: - Windows NT:  Don't try this without the help of an experienced Windows administrator.  Sometimes the file causing the problem is in use by a Windows NT system service (i.e. some backup programs that run as a service use the same MS Jet database drivers that PageGate does).  From the 'Services' icon in the control panel, try stopping any services that may be using the file in question.  WARNINNG: Stopping some services can lock up your computer, lose data or worse.  Please consult with and experienced technician before stopping any services.


One-time configuration

When PageGate is run for the first time, you will be required to enter some initial setup information.  This information can be modified later by using PageGate's Administration program.  To run PageGate, choose it from your Windows start menu.  The default location would be 'Start' > 'Programs' > 'PageGate' > 'PageGate'.  The first window you will see is the 'PageGate Setup' window.  Here you need to make some choices about where to keep some of PageGate's files, and which of PageGate's modules you will be using on this computer.

Here are the settings:

Program directory - This tells PageGate where it's program files reside on the local computer.  In most cases this would be where PageGate was installed (default: C:\Program Files\PageGate\).

Database Directory - This is where PageGate will keep it's database.  If you are upgrading from a previous version of PageGate, be sure to enter the same database location as the prior version.  The database will be automatically upgraded.  If you plan to use the NotePager Net GUI client, or run some of PageGate's modules on another computer, or administer PageGate from another computer, you should put PageGate's database in a shared network folder.  IMPORTANT: If you specify a shared network folder, the other PageGate modules/programs MUST HAVE FULL RIGHTS TO THIS FOLDER, and all folders below it in the directory structure.

Log Directory - The log directory holds all of PageGate's log files.  These logs may be used often by the administrator of PageGate.  If the PageGate Administration program is to be run from another workstation, the logs should be kept in a shared network folder that both the PageGate server and the administrator's workstation have full access to.

Run on this server - Here you can choose which of PageGate's modules to run on this computer (please  refer to 'Advanced Installation' for information on running PageGate across multiple computers).  The scheduler module and at least one dialer must be run somewhere in order for PageGate to operate.  The GetAscii, GetMail, GetWeb, and GetTTY modules are optional, but must be setup on a computer to receive messages via their respective interfaces.

After making your selections, apply your changes.

If you are upgrading from a previous version of PageGate, you will be prompted for a new registration key.  You will need to obtain a new key  from NotePage, Inc. for this version (please refer to the section labeled 'Purchasing').  Enter it here.

PageGate and the PageGate Admin program will start now.


Starting & Stopping PageGate

PageGate can be started by choosing the PageGate program from the Windows start menu.  Typically it can be found at 'Start' > 'Programs' > 'PageGate' > 'PageGate'.

After PageGate is started, a pager icon will appear in the Windows system tray on the bottom right-hand corner of the screen (next to the clock).  This icon is used to stop PageGate, start the PG Admin program, or start the PG Monitor program.  Clicking on the pager with the left mouse button will bring up a menu with these options.

If PageGate is running as an application, or as a Windows 9x service, the first menu option, 'Restore', will simply remove the pager icon from the system tray, and open a window on your desktop.  Use the minimize button to return the icon to the system tray and remove the PageGate window.  Quitting the PageGate window by using the 'X' control or by using the 'Quit PageGate' button will stop the entire PageGate application.

If PageGate is running as a Windows NT system service, the first menu option will be 'Start' instead of 'Restore'.  This option will start the PageGate system service if it is not already running.

The second menu item is 'PG Admin'.  Choosing this item will start PageGate's Administration program (if it is not already running).

The third menu item is 'PG Monitor'.  Choosing this item will start PageGate's real-time monitoring program.

If PageGate is running as an application or as a Windows 9x service, the last option is 'Quit'.  Selecting 'Quit' will stop the entire PageGate application.  If PG Admin or PG Monitor are running, they will need to be exited individually.

If PageGate is running as a Windows NT system service, the last option is 'Stop'.  This will stop the PageGate service from running.  If the PG Admin or PG Monitor programs are running, they will need to be quit out of individually.

If PageGate has been setup to run as a Windows 9x or Windows NT service, it will start automatically each time the computer is restarted.  Otherwise, you must start PageGate manually from the Windows start menu. (or add it to the computer's startup group).


5 steps to sending your first message

In order to configure PageGate, you first must have some information about your computer and paging device you want to send a message to:

1.  The PIN/ID number of the pager

2.  The phone number for your paging service provider's paging terminal

3.  The communication settings needed to connect to your paging service provider's terminal

4.  An init string for your modem to help your modem to communicate with the paging carrier's modem (usually necessary for 9600 baud and faster modems)

5.  The Communications port your modem is using on your computer

Notes regarding the above items:

The PIN/ID number is, in some cases, the same number used to send a voice or touch-tone message to the pager (sometimes this number includes the area code numbers too).  In other cases, the PIN/ID number is a totally different number.  To save time, it is best to verify your PIN/ID number with your paging service provider before configuring PageGate.

The paging terminal's phone number, in almost all cases, is NOT the same phone number you would use to send a voice or touch-tone message to the pager.  You must get this number from your paging service provider.  Be persistent.  The first representative you talk to may not have this information readily available.

The communications settings are the baud rate, parity, data bits, and stop bits used by your paging service provider's modems.  In most cases, these are the settings used: 1200 baud, even parity, 7 data bits, and 1 stop bit.  You should verify these settings with your paging service provider.

The init string for your modem can sometimes be a little tricky to obtain.  Most modems that communicate at 9600 baud or faster need an init string to reliably communicate with paging terminals.  Some modems don't require an init string at all.  You can find init strings that work with most modems on our web page (www.notepager.net) and later in this manual.  Because of the lack of command string standards within the modem community, you may need to do some research to find a workable init string.

The Communications port for your modem is the number for the serial port your modem uses.  Ports 1-4 are most commonly used.  Make sure your modem is operational before trying to use it with PageGate.  PageGate requires EXCLUSIVE use of your modem.  No other applications (such as internet dialers or fax programs) can share the modem with PageGate.

Steps:

1.  Start PageGate and PG Admin, if they are not already running.

2.  In Admin, choose 'Connectors' > 'Dialer1' > 'Settings'.  Enter an init string and dialer prefix if necessary.  Enter the correct 'Port' for your modem.  Apply your changes.

3.  Right-click on 'Carriers' and choose 'Add'.  For your paging carrier, enter it's name, phone number, baud rate, parity, data bits, and stop bits.  Apply your changes.

4.  Right-click on 'Recipients' and choose 'Add'.  For the recipient (paging device), enter the recipient name, full name, PIN/ID, and carrier.  Apply your changes.

5.  Right-click on the new recipient you just created (under the 'Recipient' object).  Choose 'Send Message' from the menu.  Enter who the message is from and then a short test message, and then hit the 'Send' button.

If all your settings are correct, shortly you should receive the message on your paging device.  If not, recheck your settings and refer to the section 'Troubleshooting connecting to a carrier'.


Overview

The PageGate application consists of several modules, each having its own unique responsibilities.  Some modules (the interfaces in particular) are optional and need only be run if the user desires.  The following section describes each of the modules and their function.


Overview

The PageGate Administration program (PGAdmin.exe) is used for setting, configuring, and controlling all aspects of the PageGate application.  PG Admin can be run from the paging server computer, or it can be setup and run on an administrator's workstation.  PG Admin takes an object-oriented approach to administering the server, most of it's functions and settings can be accessed by manipulating the objects in it's object-tree.


Starting & Stopping

There are two ways to start the PG Admin program.  If PageGate is running, there should be a pager icon in the Windows system tray (bottom right corner of the screen, next to the clock).  Click on the pager icon and you will get a popup menu.  Choose 'PG Admin' from the menu, and it will start.  PG Admin can also be started from the Windows start menu.  Choose 'Start' > 'Programs' > 'PageGate' > 'PageGate Admin'.  PG Admin will start.

To exit the PG Admin program, either click on the 'X' control on the PG Admin window, or right-click on the 'PageGate' object and choose 'Exit' from the popup menu.


Using

PageGate's Administration program uses an object-oriented approach to administering PageGate.  The PG Admin program's screen is broken into two halves.  The left half is a tree-view of PageGate's objects.  The right half gives details about the currently selected object.  Much of PG Admin's functionality can be accessed by using the right mouse button and clicking on one of PageGate's objects.  For example, to send a message to a single recipient (assuming the recipient has already been setup), simply right-click on the recipient in the object-tree and choose 'Send Message' from the popup menu.  Similarly, a message can be sent to all recipients or a group of recipients by right-clicking on the 'Recipients' or group's object.


PageGate

Description - The PageGate object is the container for all of the objects belonging to the PageGate application.  To display the objects beneath the PageGate object, click on the '+' to the left of it, or double-click on the word 'PageGate'.

Functions (accessible by right-clicking on the object)

Exit - This exits the PG Admin program.  This will NOT stop the rest of the paging server, only the administration program.

Settings

        (None)


Program

Description - The program object is found beneath the PageGate object.  The Program object contains settings and information that relate to the operation of the entire PageGate application.

Functions (accessible by right-clicking on the object)

Exit - This exits the PG Admin program.  This will NOT stop the rest of the paging server, only the administration program.

Settings

Program directory - This is the full path to the location of PageGate's program files.

Database directory - This is the full path to the location where PageGate's database is kept (pagegate.mdb).  This should only be a local path (i.e. C:\Program Files\PageGate\) if the entire PageGate application is to be run on a single computer, including the PG Admin program.  Otherwise, this path should be a UNC (Universal Naming Convention) path pointing to a shared network folder (i.e. \\PagingServer\PagingDatabase\).

Log directory - This is the full path to the location where PageGate's log files are kept. This should only be a local path (i.e. C:\Program Files\PageGate\) if the entire PageGate application is to be run on a single computer, including the PG Admin program.  Otherwise, this path should be a UNC pointing to a shared network folder (i.e. \\PagingServer\PagingLogs\).

Run PageGate as - This sets the style in which the PageGate application is run.  On a Windows 95 or 98 computer, PageGate can run as an application or as a Windows 9x service.  On a Windows NT computer, PageGate can run as an application or as a Windows NT service.  See the section 'PageGate Run Styles' for more information.

Run on this server - PageGate is made up of several modules, which can be run on separate computers.  This section allows you to choose which modules are to be run on this computer.  Please see the section 'Modules' for more information on each of PageGate's modules, or 'Advanced Installation' for information on installing PageGate across multiple computers.

Global Log - If logging is enabled, this log shows a summary of the events generated from the PageGate application, including all messages sent.

Refresh - displays the most current entries in the global log

Print - sends a copy of the log to a printer

Purge - deletes the log's entire contents

Clipboard - copies the log's contents to the Windows clipboard, allowing it to be pasted into another application

Password Protect - Two passwords can be set here for the PageGate program application.  If the first password is set, it will be required to run the PG Admin program and to get into the setup screen in the NotePager Net client program.  If the second password is set, it will be required to start the NotePager Net client programs.


Database

Description - The database object is found beneath the PageGate object.  It contains settings, status information, and tools that relate to the PageGate database.

Settings - The only settings for this object is 'Purge After'.  This sets the number of days that delivered messages are kept in the PageGate database before they are deleted.  This setting also controls when old input files processed by the GetAscii interface are removed.

Status - Shows the statistics of the PageGate database

Tools - Procedures to import data, export data and rebuild the PageGate database

Import - these objects allow you to import information into the PageGate database from comma deliminated files

Advanced Ascii - settings for advanced polling used by the GetAscii module

Connectors - settings relating to the PageGate dialers

Carriers - settings for the carriers used by PageGate

Recipients - settings for recipients (formerly know as users)

Groups - settings for groups

On-Call - Schedules to send messages to on-call groups

Export - these objects allow you to export information from the PageGate database to comma deliminated text files.

Advanced Ascii - settings for advanced polling used by the GetAscii module

Connectors - settings relating to the PageGate dialers

Carriers - settings for the carriers used by PageGate

Recipients - settings for recipients (formerly know as users)

Groups - settings for groups

On-Call - Schedules to send messages to on-call groups

Rebuild database - This option will compact and rebuild the PageGate database.  All of PageGate's modules must be stopped in order to rebuild the database (this can be accomplished by clicking on the pager icon in the Windows system tray (next to the clock) and choosing 'Quit' or 'Stop' from the popup menu).  All NotePager Net GUI clients must also be exited.  Please note that an external rebuild utility is also included with PageGate.  It is called 'Compact DB Utility' and can be found in the PageGate program group in the Windows start menu.  This utility can be used in cases where the PG Admin program is unable to start due to certain types of database corruption.  After the database is rebuilt, you will have to restart the PageGate service module.  If PageGate is running as an application or Windows 9x service, restart PageGate by choosing 'PageGate' from the Windows start menu.  If PageGate is running as a Windows NT service, click on the pager icon in the Windows system tray (next to the clock) and choose 'Start' from the popup menu.

Password Protect - Entering a database password will restrict access to the database from programs like Microsoft Access.  Without the password, the database cannot be opened.  If this password is set,  the next time each NotePager Net client is started, the you will need to enter it (NotePager Net will prompt you for it automatically).  The NotePager Net client will only prompt for this password once, and then it will be stored for future program startups (unless the password is changed again).  DO NOT LOSE THIS PASSWORD.  If this password is lost, the database may become permanently inaccessible!


Scheduler

Description - This object contains settings and status information that relates to the scheduler module.

Functions (accessible by right-clicking on the object)

Start - this will start the scheduler module (if the PageGate application is currently running).

Stop - this will stop the scheduler module (if the PageGate application is currently running).

Settings - the only settings for the scheduler is 'Polling Interval'.  This sets how often (in seconds) the scheduler checks the database for new unscheduled messages.  The scheduler also uses this time interval to check if any of the dialers need a new carrier to connect to.

Status - shows the current state of the scheduler

Log - If logging is enabled, this log shows the activity of the scheduler module. This includes all messages processed by PageGate.

Refresh - displays the most current entries in the log

Print - sends a copy of the log file to a printer

Purge - deletes the log's entire contents

Clipboard - copies the log's contents to the Windows clipboard, allowing it to be pasted into another application


Interfaces

Description - Interfaces are the PageGate modules that accept messages into the paging server.  The NotePager Net GUI client is not included here, because it is not a server based interface.

Functions (accessible by right-clicking on the object)

Start All - this will start all the installed interfaces (if the PageGate application is currently running).

Stop All - this will stop all the installed interfaces (if the PageGate application is currently running).


Global

Description - This object contains information that relates to all the PageGate server interfaces.

Functions (accessible by right-clicking on the object)

Start All - this will start all the installed interfaces (if the PageGate application is currently running).

Stop All - this will stop all the installed interfaces (if the PageGate application is currently running).

Status - this displays the current status of all of the PageGate interfaces.


GetAscii

Description - This object contains settings and status information for the GetAscii interface.

Functions (accessible by right-clicking on the object)

Start - this will start the GetAscii interface (if the PageGate application is currently running).

Stop - this will stop the GetAscii interface (if the PageGate application is currently running).

Settings

Enabled - check this  box to enable the GetAscii interface.  The interface cannot be enabled unless a valid polling directory is provided

Polling directory - the polling directory is the location where the GetAscii interface looks for text files with paging information in them.  If the sendpage.exe program is being used, this is where it should create its temporary data files.

Advanced Polling Options - advanced polling options can be used when you don't have control of the format of the Ascii text files to be accepted by the GetAscii interface.  It uses file locations and filenames to specify which recipient(s) the messages are for.

Polling Interval - the polling interval sets how often (in seconds) the GetAscii interface checks its polling directory(s) for new messages

Status - this displays the current state of the GetAscii Interface

Log - If logging is enabled, this log shows the activities of the GetAscii interface, including all messages accepted and rejected by it.

Refresh - displays the most current entries in the log

Print - sends a copy of the log file to a printer

Purge - deletes the log's entire contents

Clipboard - copies the log's contents to the Windows clipboard, allowing it to be pasted into another application


GetMail

Description - This object contains settings and status information for the GetMail interface.

Functions (accessible by right-clicking on the object)

Start - this will start the GetMail interface (if the PageGate application is currently running).

Stop - this will stop the GetMail interface (if the PageGate application is currently running).

Settings

Enabled - check this  box to enable the GetMail interface.  The interface cannot be enabled unless valid local and network mail server paths are provided

Mail Server Path (local) - sets the path to the MDaemon mail server.  This is a local path to the server (i.e. C:\Mdaemon\)

Mail Server Path (network) - sets the path to the MDaemon mail server as it would be accessed by another workstation (i.e. \\MailServer\C-Drive\Mdaemon\).  If all of PageGate, including the PG Admin program, and MDaemon are running on the same computer, the local path can also be used for the network path setting.

Polling Interval - the polling interval sets how often (in seconds) the GetMail interface checks the mail server for new messages

Default Domain Name - the domain name used by PageGate when it sends out email to inform a message sender the status of their message, it is also used when PageGate forwards copies of messages, that has received, to an additional email address

Status - this displays the current state of the GetMail Interface

Log - If logging is enabled, this log shows the activities of the GetMail interface, including all messages accepted and rejected by it.

Refresh - displays the most current entries in the log

Print - sends a copy of the log file to a printer

Purge - deletes the log's entire contents

Clipboard - copies the log's contents to the Windows clipboard, allowing it to be pasted into another application


GetWeb

Description - This object contains settings and status information for the GetWeb interface.

Settings

Enabled - check this box to enable the GetWeb interface.  The interface cannot be enabled unless valid paths are provided for the 'Web Pages Path' and the 'CGI Data Path'

Web Pages Path - sets the location where, on the web server, PageGate will automatically generate web pages for recipients (if desired).

CGI Data Path - sets the location where the GetWeb interface collects the data files generated by the webgate.exe CGI program.

Polling Interval - sets how often (in seconds) the GetWeb interface checks for new messages from the web.

Status - this displays the current state of the GetWeb Interface

Log - If logging is enabled, this log shows the activities of the GetWeb interface, including all messages accepted and rejected by it.

Refresh - displays the most current entries in the log

Print - sends a copy of the log file to a printer

Purge - deletes the log's entire contents

Clipboard - copies the log's contents to the Windows clipboard, allowing it to be pasted into another application


GetTTY

Description - This object contains settings and status information for the GetTTY interface.  The GetTTY interface is for use with TTY and TDD devices, commonly used by the deaf and hearing impaired.  This interface is only available by special request.


Connectors

Description - Connectors are the PageGate modules that actually send out messages to the paging carriers.  Connectors can use a modem or a direct cable connection.

Functions (accessible by right-clicking on the object)

Start All - this will start all the installed dialers (if the PageGate application is currently running).

Stop All - this will stop all the installed dialers (if the PageGate application is currently running).


Global

Description - This object contains settings and status information that relates to all of PageGate's connectors.

Functions (accessible by right-clicking on the object)

Start All - this will start all the installed dialers, if the PageGate application is currently running.

Stop All - this will stop all the installed dialers, if the PageGate application is currently running.

Settings

Polling Interval - sets how often (in seconds) the dialers check their queues for messages waiting to be sent out.

Dial Threshold - sets the number of messages that can be pending for a single carrier, before an additional dialer is started to assist in delivery.  More than one dialer must be purchased for this setting to have any effect.

Retries - sets the number of times the same message will be retried before the message is marked as bad.  It also sets the number of times a carrier will be retried before all pending messages for it will be marked as bad.

Retry interval - sets how long (in seconds) a failed delivery attempt will wait until it is tried again.

Status - shows the state of all the connectors


Dialers

Description - These objects contain information for each of PageGate's dialers.  PageGate comes standard with one dialer.  Additional dialers can be purchased separately.

Functions (accessible by right-clicking on the object)

Start - starts an individual dialer (if the PageGate application is currently running).

Stop - stops an individual dialer (if the PageGate application is currently running).

Settings

Dialer - the name of the currently selected dialer

Init String - a modem initialization string needed by this particular dialer.  Init strings needed to connect to a particular carrier can be set under the carrier object.  This setting can be used to help support the use of different model modems on a single PageGate server.

Dialing Prefix - a touch-tone dialing prefix needed to make outside calls for this particular dialer.

Dedicated Carrier - sets as single carrier to be serviced by this dialer.  This is mostly used with a direct cable connection.

Port - the serial or com port used by this dialer.  This is usually the com port for a modem.

Direct Connect - sets the dialer to use a direct cable connection to a paging terminal (no modem).

Status - shows the state of this dialer

Log - If logging is enabled, this log shows the activities of this dialer, including all messages delivered by it.

Refresh - displays the most current entries in the log

Print - sends a copy of the log file to a printer

Purge - deletes the log's entire contents

Clipboard - copies the log's contents to the Windows clipboard, allowing it to be pasted into another application


Carriers

Description - Carrier objects contain the information needed to connect to paging terminals.  If you will be connecting to outside paging service providers, you may need to contact them to obtain some of the necessary settings.

Functions (accessible by right-clicking on the object)

        Add - this allows you to add a new carrier

        Cancel Messages - this will cancel all pending messages for all carriers

Carrier(s)

Description - Under the main carrier object you will see carrier objects for each new carrier you setup.

Functions (accessible by right-clicking on the object)

Delete - this will delete this carrier.  Note: carriers cannot be deleted if there are recipients currently setup to use it.

Cancel Messages - this will cancel all pending messages for this carrier

Settings

Carrier - a name that identifies the carrier.  This name cannot be changed later.

Phone Number - the phone number to connect to the carrier's paging terminal

Baud Rate - the baud rate to use when connecting to the paging terminal.  1200 baud is the most common setting

Parity - the type of parity to use when connecting to the paging terminal (e = even, o = odd, n = none). Even parity is the most common setting

Stop Bits - the number of stop bits to use when connecting to the paging terminal.  1 stop bit is the most common setting

Init String - an init string can be set to change modem settings before the carrier is called.  In most cases an init string is necessary to reliably connect to most carriers.  See the section 'Init Strings' for more information

Max Chars - the maximum number of characters that the paging terminal will accept in a single message.  Some carriers accept as little as 80 characters.  Others accept over 1000.  240 is a common limit.

Password - some carriers require a password to accept messages.  Most don't require a password.

Drop not-printable characters - many pagers don't accept formatting characters like carriage returns, line feeds, and tabs.  Check this box if you don't want these 'not printable characters' sent out in the message.

Pulse Dial - If touch-tone dialing is not available, check this box to dial using pulse.

TT Messages - some carriers don't accept the TAP/IXO protocol for sending messages to numeric pagers.  Check this box if you wish to send numeric messages to numeric pagers by using touch tones.  Only use this method as a last resort.  There is no error detection/correction or confirmation when sending tone messages.

TT Wait String - this settings is used in conjunction with the 'Tone Msg' setting.  See the section 'Sending Touch Tone Messages to Numeric Pagers' for more detailed information.


Recipients

Description - The main recipient object contains objects beneath it for each pager/phone/wireless messaging device setup in PageGate (recipients were called 'Users' in previous versions of PageGate).

Functions (accessible by right-clicking on the object)

        Add - this allows you to add a new recipient

        Send Message - this will send a single message to all recipients

        Requeue Messages - this allows you to re-send messages that have already been sent (to any/all recipients)

        Cancel Messages - this will cancel all pending messages for all recipients

        Pending Messages - this will show all pending messages for all recipients.  It also allows you to cancel single pending messages.

Recipient(s)

Description - Under the main recipient object, you will see a recipient object for each new recipient that is setup (recipients were called 'Users' in previous versions of PageGate).

Functions (accessible by right-clicking on the object)

Send Message - this will send a message to the selected recipient

Requeue Messages - this allows you to re-send messages that have already been sent to this recipient

Cancel Messages - this will cancel all pending messages for the selected recipient

Pending Messages - this will show all pending messages for the selected recipient.  It also allows you to cancel a single pending message for the recipient

Delete - this will delete the selected recipient.  Note: all of PageGate's modules are temporarily paused and then restarted when a recipient is deleted, so as not to remove a recipient that is currently being processed.  When removing a large number of recipients, it is most efficient to manually stop PageGate's modules, delete the recipients, and then restart the modules.

Settings

Recipient - a short unique name to identify the recipient

Full Name - the recipients full name or long description

ID - the ID or PIN number for the pager

Carrier - a list of all the available carriers.  Choose the carrier that this recipient uses.

Forward To - used with the email (GetMail) interface to forward a copy of each message for this recipient, to an email address.

Max Characters - The number of characters PageGate will send to this recipient from a message.  If this number is greater than the Max Characters setting for the carrier, the message will be broken up into multiple messages (according to the carrier's max character settings), numbered, and then sent.

Notify Code - If the 'Notify Only' setting is enabled, this message will be sent instead of the actual message text.

Alpha - check this box if the recipient's device (pager) accepts both letters and numbers

Notify Only - check this if the recipient should receive the 'Notify Code' (above) rather than the actual message.  This setting is commonly used with numeric pagers.

Reliapage - when reliapage is enabled, PageGate will sequentially number each message it sends out to the recipient.  This is useful for detecting if a message has been missed (a number is missing).  Messages then can be re-sent by using the 'Requeue' function.

Enabled Services - check the interfaces that will be allowed as a source of messages for this recipient.

Advanced Options

Maintain Mailbox - specifies whether a mailbox should be setup on the mail server for this recipient.  This option is used when using the 'Multi-Page' option.

Multi-Page - check this box if the recipient is to be used for the multi-page feature.  See the 'Multi-Page' section for more details.

Email Outcome - if the GetMail interface is used, checking this box will send an email back to the message's sender with it's delivery outcome.

Ad-Hoc - check this box if this recipient is to be used for the ad-hoc feature.  See the section 'Ad-Hoc' for more details.

Remove Sender's Domain - checking this box will remove the domain name portion of a sender's address, from the from field of the message.  This can save characters especially when a typical message sender has a long domain name in their email address.

Drop Non-Printable Characters - many pagers don't accept formatting characters like carriage returns, line feeds, and tabs.  Check this box if you don't want these 'not printable characters' sent out in the message.

Groups - the groups object allows you to choose which groups (if any) this recipient belongs to

WebPage - If the web service is enabled for this recipient, this button allows you to choose a template, and to enter information for the automatic generation of a personal webpage for this recipient.  See the 'GetWeb' section for more details.


Groups

Description - The main groups object contains objects for each group setup in PageGate.  Groups allow a single message to be sent to several recipients.

Functions (accessible by right-clicking on the object)

Add - this allows you to add a new group to PageGate

Send Messages - this will send a message to all groups

Requeue Messages - this allows you to resend message that have already been sent to any group

Cancel Messages - this will cancel all pending messages for all groups

Group(s)

Description - Under the main group object, you will see a group object for each group that has been setup

Functions (accessible by right-clicking on the object)

Send Messages - this will send a message to all the members of this group

Requeue Messages - this allows you to resend messages that have already been sent to this group

Cancel Messages - this allows you to cancel all pending messages for this group

Delete - this will delete the selected group.  Note: all of PageGate's modules are temporarily paused and then restarted when a group is deleted, so as not to remove a group that is currently being processed.  When removing a large number of groups, it is most efficient to manually stop PageGate's modules, delete the groups, and then restart the modules.

Settings

Group - a short unique name to identify the group

Description - a longer description of the group

Forward To - used with the email (GetMail) interface to forward a copy of each message for this group, to another email address.

Enabled Services - check the interfaces that will be allowed as a source of messages for this group.

Advanced Options

Maintain Mailbox - specifies whether a mailbox should be setup on the mail server for this group

On-Call Group - the on-call group feature allows for users to send a message to a group, and only the recipient(s) that is currently on-call is sent the message.  See 'On-Call Groups' for more information

On-Call Schedule - this button allows you to set a schedule for which recipients in this group are on-call and when.  See 'On-Call Groups' for more information.

Members - the members object allows you to select which recipients belong to this group.  Clicking on a recipient moves it from one list to the other

WebPage - If the web service is enabled for this group, this button allows you to choose a template, and to enter information for the automatic generation of a webpage for this group.  See the 'GetWeb' section for more details.


Logging

Description - The logging object contains settings related to the status and logging functions of PageGate.

Settings

Log to Disk - checking this box turns on PageGate's logging to disk feature.  PageGate will log to text files information about each message accepted and delivered.  Log to Disk must be enabled to see information in the log objects in the admin program.

Detailed Log - when detailed logging is selected, the history logs will contain more detailed information about what is happening in each of PageGate's modules (especially the dialers).

Max Log Length - each night the log files are trimmed down so that they are no longer than this setting (measured in characters - previous versions of PageGate measured this in lines)

Use PG Monitor - The PageGate Monitor program allows you to monitor PageGate real-time.  PG Monitor can be run on the local computer, or from any location accessible via TCP/IP.  For more information, refer to the section 'PageGate Monitor'

PG Monitor Port - the TCP/IP port number for PageGate to communicate with PG Monitor.

PG Monitor Host 0 - the Host0 address is always set to 127.0.0.1.  This is the localhost address, which means if PG Monitor is enabled, status information will always be sent to the PG Monitor program running on the local computer.

PG Monitor Host 1-3 - the host name or IP address of computers that will run the PG Monitor program.


Reports

Description - Reports about information in the PageGate database

Carrier List - prints the currently setup carriers and their settings

Recipient List - prints the currently setup recipients and their settings

Message Count - prints the number of messages sent to each recipient during a specific time period.  Note: this report can only give information for dates less than the 'Purge After' setting under the database object.


Registration

Description - the registration object allows you to enter registration information to unlock PageGate and turn it into a fully operational, licensed version.

IMPORTANT - when you are entering registration information, ALL of the user and company information must be typed EXACTLY as it appears on the registration you receive. The registration information is both case and punctuation sensitive. The registration key also must be typed exactly to be accepted.  If you get a message 'Invalid Registration Key', DOUBLE and TRIPPLE CHECK all the information you have entered.


Help

Description - this object gives access to PageGate's on-line help system.


Overview

The PageGate Monitor program (PGMonitor.exe) allows for real-time monitoring of the PageGate server.  It can be run on the PageGate server, or on any workstation that the server is able to communicate with via TCP/IP.

In order to use PG Monitor, both the paging server and the monitoring workstation must have TCP/IP installed and operational.  The two systems must be able to communicate with each other via TCP/IP (this can be verified by using the Windows ping utility). The workstation that PG Monitor is to be run on must have a static IP address or host name.


Starting & Stopping

There are two ways to start the PageGate Monitor Program (PG Monitor).  If you are on the paging server, click on the pager icon in the system tray (bottom right corner of the screen, next to the clock).  From the menu choose 'PG Monitor'.  Alternately, you can access PG Monitor form the Windows start menu (Start > Programs > PageGate > PageGate Monitor).

PG Monitor can be exited by choosing 'File' and then 'Exit' from the menu.  Also, clicking on the 'X' control on PG Monitor's main window, will close the program.  If you want the window positions for the log displays saved for the next time you start PG Monitor, check the 'Save Window Positions on Exit' setting on the 'Settings' screen found under the 'File' menu.


Configuration

In PG Admin:

PageGate's Admin program is used to setup the IP address(s) or host name(s) for the workstation(s) that will run PG Monitor

1. Choose the 'Settings' object from under the 'Logging' object

2. Check 'Use PG Monitor'

3. Enter the TCP/IP port number you want to use (10101 by default) into the 'PG Monitor Port' field.

4. Enter the IP address or host name of the workstation that is to run PG Monitor into one of the 'PG Monitor Host' fields.

5. Apply your changes

In PG Monitor

No initial settings are needed unless you are using a different TCP/IP port than the default (10101).  To change the port number, choose 'Settings' from the 'File' menu.


Using

The PageGate Monitor Window

This window shows the state of each of PageGate's modules, and statistics about them.  Each module is listed on this window.  Clicking on the 'Show All Dialers' button will show information about all of PageGate's dialers.  'Hide Dialers' will only show summary information for the dialers.  The module labels change colors to indicate the state of each module.  A red label means that the module is stopped.  A green label means that the module is running.  If a module is running, each time it polls for information, the label will change shades of green.  A running module will be constantly changing shades of green (i.e. with a polling interval of 5 seconds, the shade of green will change about every 5 seconds).  Next to the module name are two fields labeled 'Good' and 'Bad'.  These fields show how many messages have been processed by the module (since PG Monitor was started), and whether they have been successful or have failed.  After the modules is a 'Pending' field.  This field shows how many messages have been accepted, but not yet delivered.

In addition to the main PageGate Monitor window, separate real-time log screens can be viewed for each of PageGate's modules.  Log windows can be opened by choosing 'View' from PG Monitor's menu, and then choosing the log you wish to view.  Each log can be moved, resized or closed as desired.  Choose 'Settings' from the 'File' menu and check the 'Save Window Positions on Exit' box if you want to save the window positions and sizes for the next time PG Monitor is run.  Choosing 'Cascade' from the 'View' menu will cascade all the visible log windows so that at least part of them can be seen.  Choosing 'Reset Counters' from the 'View' menu will reset all the module's counters back to zero.

IMPORTANT - by right-clicking on the log windows, you can toggle between the regular log view and the auto-scroll view.  When auto-scroll is on, the log will always keep the most current information on the screen.


Overview

The PageGate service manager (PageGate.exe) runs on all computers that run a portion of the PageGate server application (except PG Admin, PG Monitor, or the NotePager Net client).  It runs in the background whenever the PageGate application is active.  The service manager can run as an application, a Windows 9x service, or a Windows NT service.  It is responsible for starting and stopping all the other server modules.  If PageGate is setup to run as a Windows NT system service, it is the only module set to start automatically (it will start the other modules).  This is the only server module that should ever have more than one instance running (only if PageGate is installed across multiple machines).

When PageGate is running as an application or Windows 9x service, the PageGate service manager's icon (small pager) will appear in the Windows system tray (bottom right corner of the screen, next to the clock). Note: the PG Admin and PG Monitor programs can easily be started by clicking on this icon.  Quitting the icon when PageGate is running as an application or Windows 9x service will stop the ENTIRE PageGate application.  If the PageGate service manager is running as a Windows NT system service, a separate application (PGSystray.exe) runs in the windows system tray to provide the icon and popup menu.  This program gives similar functionality as the pager icon when PageGate is running as an application or Windows 9x service.  However,  stopping this program has no effect on the rest of PageGate.


Starting & Stopping

The PageGate service manager controls the state of the rest of PageGate's modules.  The entire PageGate application is started or stopped by starting or stopping the PageGate service manager.

Application

Start - If PageGate is setup to run as an application, it can be started by choosing the PageGate icon from the Windows start menu.

Stop - If PageGate is setup to run as an application, it can be stopped by clicking on the pager in the Windows system tray (bottom right corner of the screen next to the clock), and then choosing 'Quit' from the menu.

Windows 9x service

Start - If PageGate is setup to run as a Windows 9x service, the application should start automatically when the computer is started.  If you need to restart it for any reason, PageGate can be restarted the same way you would start it if it were an application (from the Windows start menu).

Stop - If PageGate is setup to run as a Windows 9x service, it can be stopped by clicking on the pager in the Windows system tray (bottom right corner of the screen next to the clock), and then choosing 'Quit' from the menu.

Windows NT service

Start - If PageGate is setup to run as a Windows NT system service, the application should start automatically when the computer is started.  If you need to restart the service for any reason, you may do so by clicking on the pager in the Windows system tray (bottom right corner of the screen next to the clock), and then choosing 'Start' from the menu.  Alternately, the PageGate service manager can be started from the 'Services' icon in the Windows control panel.

Stop - If PageGate is setup to run as a Windows NT system service, it can be stopped by clicking on the pager in the Windows system tray (bottom right corner of the screen next to the clock), and then choosing 'Stop' from the menu.  Alternately, the PageGate service manager can be stopped from the 'Services' icon in the Windows control panel.


Overview

PageGate's scheduler program is responsible for queuing all messages to be sent out by PageGate's dialers.  Groups, on-call groups, scheduled messages, and repeating messages are also the responsibility of the scheduler.  In addition, the scheduler also runs a cleanup routine each night which trims down log files, purges old message entries in the database, and cleans up other PageGate files.  The scheduler must be running in order for any messages to be delivered by PageGate.


Starting & Stopping

The scheduler can be started or stopped by using the PG Admin program.  Right-click on the 'Scheduler' object and then choose 'Start' or 'Stop' from the popup menu.  The scheduler will start within a few seconds.


Overview

PageGate can support up to sixteen simultaneous dialers for message delivery.  Each dialer can have a direct cable connection to a paging terminal, or can use a modem to dial out to a paging terminal.  Modems used with PageGate must be dedicated to the purpose (i.e. they can't be shared with other applications such as fax programs or internet dialers).


Starting & Stopping

The PageGate dialers can be started and stopped as a group or individually.  The PG Admin program is used to do either.  Right-click on the 'Connectors' object and then choose 'Start All' or 'Stop All' from the popup menu to start or stop all of the dialers at the same time. An individual dialer can be started or stopped by right-clicking on the dialer object and choosing 'Start' or 'Stop' from the popup menu.  The dialer will start or stop after a few seconds.


Multiple Dialers

PageGate can support up to 16 simultaneous dialers.  PageGate comes with a single dialer by default.  Additional dialers can be purchased separately.  Each dialer has the option to be a direct connection and/or dedicated to a single dialer.  The dialers are intelligent and will try to deliver messages in the most efficient manner possible.  If more than one dialer is owned, a new dialer will start for each carrier that has messages pending for it.  Once a carrier connection is made, all pending messages for that carrier will be delivered.  If any dialers are still idle, the 'Dialer Threshold' value will be checked to see if any carrier has more pending messages than this value.  If so, an additional dialer will connect to the same carrier to assist in message delivery.  Dialers are also rotated through on each connection, so if a particular dialer is down for any reason, it will not stop messages from being delivered by the other dialers.


Direct connect

PageGate's dialers support direct cable connection to paging terminals.  If the paging terminal is in-house, this is the most efficient method for connection.  Additional dialers (if purchased) can be used at the same time to deliver messages to other carriers too.  To make a dialer direct connect: in PG Admin, choose the settings option from under the dialer object.  Check the 'Direct Connect' option, and then choose a 'Dedicated Carrier' from the drop-down list.


Dedicated Carriers

Each dialer has the option to be dedicated to a single paging carrier.  This is used with direct cable connections.  This option can also be used if a modem is connected to a phone line with a special phone service that gives beneficial rates, when dialing to a particular carrier.  To make a dialer dedicated to a single carrier: in PG Admin, choose the settings option from under the dialer object and then choose a 'Dedicated Carrier' from the drop-down list.


Touch Tone Delivery

Some paging carrier only accept messages for their numeric pagers by using touch tones.  This is accomplished by dialing the pager's phone number, waiting for a prompt (voice message or series of beeps) and then sending a series of tones via the phone dial-pad.  PageGate  supports delivering numeric messages in this manner, but it is not the preferred method.  This method of message delivery has no provisions for error detection/correction or message confirmation.  It is sometimes known as 'blind dialing' because there is no way to really know if the other end actually received the message.

How to setup a recipient for touch-tone messages:

First a 'touch-tone' carrier must be setup.  Only a single 'touch-tone' carrier is needed to send message to all numeric pagers.  To make a carrier a 'touch-tone' carrier, check off the 'TT Messages' checkbox on the carrier setup screen.  When this option is chosen, the only relevant setting (other than the carrier's name) on the form is the 'TT Wait String' field.  The default wait string ',,@' should work for most pagers.  If you need to use different wait string for different pagers, you will need to create multiple 'touch-tone' carriers (one for each unique wait string needed).  The wait string can be changed to support pagers with different input methods.

The comma (,) is used to pause (about one second)

The at sign (@) is used to wait for silence (about five seconds)

The default wait string will dial the pager's number, pause for a couple of seconds, and then wait for a five second period of silence (after the beeps or greeting message) and then send the message (touch tones).

To setup a recipient as a 'touch-tone' recipient, simply put the numeric pager's phone number in the 'ID' field on the recipient setup screen, and choose the 'touch-tone' carrier you just setup as the carrier.  If you have setup several carriers with different wait strings, choose the carrier that will work with this pager's service provider.

Some paging providers use a common phone number for all numeric pagers.  The user must dial this number, wait for a tone, dial their pager's id number, wait for another message, and then type the numeric message.  This can be accomplished in PageGate by setting the 'touch-tone' carrier's wait string to wait a predetermined amount of time (using multiple commas).  This would  be the wait time between sending the pager's ID number and sending the actual touch-tone message.  On the recipient setup screen, in the recipient's 'ID' field, put the paging company's common phone number followed by a few commas and then the pager's ID number.  This will give the following results:  The phone number will be dialed from the recipient's ID field,  PageGate will pause for the number of commas in the recipient's ID field, PageGate will send the second set of number in the recipient's ID field and then pause for the number of commas in the carrier's wait field.  PageGate will then send the touch-tone message.


Overview

The GetAscii module enables PageGate to accept messages from many off-the-shelf, third-party, and custom applications.  It is responsible for accepting messages sent via the sendpage.exe commandline program, and for polling a predetermined directory for Ascii text files containing message information.  This interface is very popular in several different types of applications.  Many third-party programs have the ability to issue a DOS/Windows commandline command (shell command).  The GetAscii interface will enable these programs to send messages to PageGate by using the sendpage command.  Many developers find that using the GetAscii interface can easily add paging capabilities to their applications.  The GetAscii interface can even be used to accept messages from other operating systems.  With an FTP application running, message files can be transferred into the directory being polled by GetAscii.  This would enable MAC's Unix systems, mini computers, etc. to send messages with PageGate.


Starting & Stopping

The GetAscii interface can be started or stopped by using the PG Admin program.  Right-click on the 'GetAscii' object (found under the 'Interfaces' object) and then choose 'Start' or 'Stop' from the popup menu.  The GetAscii interface will start or stop within a few seconds.


Using sendpage.exe

The sendpage commandline program can be used to send messages to PageGate.  It can be run from a DOS or Windows commandline, or from within any program that can issue a commandline (shell) command.  There is a DOS limitation that limits the number of characters that can be sent on a single commandline to 128.  Sendpage must be told where to create its temporary message files.  This location must be the same as the Polling Directory, which is set in PageGate's Admin program.  The person or application that runs sendpage.exe must have sufficient rights to create files in this directory.  The syntax of sendpage.exe is as follows (typing sendpage.exe /? will also give this information):

sendpage [-dir=dest] to from message

'sendpage' is the name of the program itself

-dir= is a commandline option that sets the directory to where the temporary message files will be stored.

'dest' should be replaced with the actual path to the GetAscii Polled directory

'to' should be replaced with the recipient's name of who the message is to (can not be blank)

'from' should be replaced with who the message is being sent from (can not be blank)

'message' should be replaced with the actual message text (can not be blank)

Example:  sendpage -dir=c:\pages Chris Peter This is a test message

Optionally a DOS environment variable can be set so that the [-dir=dest] option does not need to be included in the command.  The environment variable name is SNDPGDIR.

Example:  SET SNDPGDIR=C:\PAGES

Here is the same example message with the SNDPGDIR environment variable set:

Example:  sendpage Chris Peter This is a test message


Using ascii text files

The GetAscii front-end interface can be used to poll a directory for Ascii text files that contain messages.  An Ascii text file is simply a file containing text only.  The DOS EDIT and Window NotePad programs create Ascii text files by default.  Ascii text files can also be created from within virtually any programming environment.  In order for GetAscii to pick-up Ascii text file messages, the file must be put in the Polled Directory specified in PageGate's Admin program.  GetAscii will only look for files with the .asc extension (see 'Advanced ascii polling' for other polling options).  If more than one file with a .asc extension exists in the polled directory, the files are sorted alphabetically and then processed in alphabetical order.  The format of the .asc files is as follows:

to

from

message

Please note that each line must have a carriage return terminating it (or carriage return and line feed).

'to' should be replaced with the recipient's name of who the message is to (can not be blank)

'from' should be replaced with who the message is being sent from (can not be blank)

'message' should be replaced with the actual message text.  The 'message' area is actually everything after the 'from' line.  Therefore multiple lines of message data is valid. (can not be blank)

Example file named test.asc:

Chris

Peter

This is a

test.


Advanced ascii polling

Overview

In previous version of PageGate, the GetAscii module only checked for files in a single directory and with .asc as a file extension.  Furthermore, the text files had to be in a particular format so that the recipient's name and the from field could be extracted from the message file.  This is still true for GetAscii's primary polling algorithm.

PageGate version 3.0 has significantly enhanced the GetAscii module's polling capabilities by adding the 'Advanced Ascii Polling' feature.  By using advanced ascii polling, GetAscii can check for files in an unlimited number of different directories, and for files with any name.  In addition, the text files don't need any special header information in them, and can be slotted for a particular recipient  by the file's name, by it's location, or by both values.

Setting Advanced Polling Options

The 'Advanced Polling Options' screen can be accessed from the GetAscii 'Settings' screen.  An unlimited number of advanced polling rules can be setup to collect data from many sources.  Simply fill in each row on the 'Advanced Polling Options' screen with a new set of polling parameters.  An existing rule can be deleted by clicking to the left of the row (thus highlighting the entire row) and by hitting the delete key on your keyboard.

Fields:

Recipient - This field can contain either an asterisk (*) or an existing PageGate recipient.  If an asterisk is used, the from field is ignored, and the files described by the 'File(s)' and 'Path' fields are assumed to be in the 'regular' GetAscii format.  The message's recipient and from fields are extracted from the message file.  The asterisk is typically used when you have control of the ascii text file's format, but don't have control of what the file is named, or where it is written.  If a recipient's name is used instead of an asterisk, the from field is used, and any files that are described by the 'File(s)' and 'Path' fields are collected and sent to this recipient.

From - This field is ignored when an asterisk is used in the 'Recipient' field.  Otherwise, the 'From' field becomes part of each message that is collected by this rule.

File(s) - This field is used to describe what files are collected by this rule.  Wildcard characters ('*' and '?') can be used.  For example, an entry of '*.txt' will collect all files that end with '.txt'.  An entry of '?at' will collect files like 'cat' and 'bat' and 'rat', but not 'flat'.

Path - This field is used to set where (which directory or folder, and on what drive) the ascii text files will be collected from.  Wildcards are not valid in this field.


Ad-Hoc

Ascii text files can be used to send messages to pagers by using their PIN (ID) numbers.  This option is only available with the 5000 pager license or greater.  The advantage of this feature is that a user account for each pager does not have to be setup in PageGate.  Only a single Ad-Hoc recipient needs to be setup for each carrier.  The disadvantage is that the sender must know the PIN (ID) numbers of the pagers (harder to remember than recipient names).  Sending messages using Ad-Hoc is similar to sending Multi-Page messages.  In PageGate's Admin program, create a recipient and set it as an Ad-Hoc recipient.  The carrier information must be correct; it is used to set which carrier the messages are sent to.  If  'ahu' were an Ad-Hoc recipient, this would be a sample text file to send Ad-Hoc messages:

ahu 1234567 7654321 2468086

Peter

This is a test Ad-Hoc message

The above example would dial the carrier specified by the ahu account and send the message to the pagers with PIN (ID) numbers 1234567, 7654321 and 2468086.  Multiple PIN (ID) numbers on the 'to' line should be separated by spaces, commas, or semi-colons.


MultiPage

Multi-Page

A single text file can be used to send a message to more than one recipient, by using PageGate's Multi-Page option.  In PageGate's Admin program, create a recipient and set it as a Multi-Page recipient.  This recipient is simply used as a flag to say that more recipients follow.  For example, if a recipient named 'mpu' is setup as a Multi-Page recipient, this would be an example of a message being sent to more than one recipient:

mpu Chris Bob Mary Steve

Peter

This is a test sent to four people

The above example would send the same message to Chris, Bob, Mary, and Steve.  Multiple names on the 'to' line should divided by spaces, commas, or semi-colons.


Additional Notes

The Ascii/Commandline engine will check the directory you setup in the Admin program for files that have .asc as an extension (additional polling directories/filenames can be setup using the 'Advanced ascii polling' option.  see the section above for more information).  It will check for the files at the polling interval (in seconds) which is also setup in the Admin program.  When the directory is polled, and a file is found, it is immediately moved to the process subdirectory (underneath the polled directory) and given a unique filename (the .asc is replaced with a unique number).  If in the same polling period, two or more files are put into the polled directory with the same filename, the first file will be overwritten by the second.  The files are not given a unique name until the directory is actually polled.  To avoid this, if the files are being written by an application, be sure to use unique filenames.  If the sendpage program is being used, unique filenames are automatically generated.  When the message is polled, if the format of the message or the recipient name is invalid, it will be immediately moved to the 'bad' subdirectory (under the polled directory).  The file will have the same filename it was originally given, but the extension will be changed to a unique number.  If the message is in a valid format and the recipient is also valid, the message will be moved to the 'process' subdirectory (under the polled directory) and then given to the paging engine for delivery.  When the paging engine is done with the message, it will be moved from the 'process' subdirectory to either the 'good' or the 'bad' subdirectory depending on the ability of the engine to send the message to the carrier.  Application programs can check the 'process', 'good' and 'bad' subdirectories for the original filename (with .* as an extension), to verify the status of the message.  Messages are purged from the 'good' and 'bad' directories when they are older (in days) than the 'purge after' setting in the PG Admin program.


Overview

The GetMail module enables PageGate to act as an email to pager gateway.  Using PageGate, information in email messages can be sent to recipient's pagers.  GetMail is responsible for retrieving email messages from the MDaemon* mail server.  The from field, subject field, and message body are extracted from the email messages.  Attachments such as graphics etc. are ignored.  A copy of messages sent to each recipient's pager can be optionally forwarded to an additional email address for that recipient.  This way the recipient can have a 'hard copy' of all messages sent to his/her pager, in their regular email mailbox.  This forwarding option is also very useful when used with the other front-end interfaces.  For example, if a message is sent to a recipient via GetAscii, Get Web or NotePager Net, a copy of the message can be forwarded to the recipient's email mailbox.  When new account are added into PageGate, PageGate automatically creates an email account for that recipient on the mail server.  Account maintenance for the email recipients is automatic: no maintenance is necessary at the mail server.

*The MDaemon mail server is not a NotePage, Inc. product.  Purchasing and support of MDaemon is handled by Deerfield communications (www.deerfield.com).


Starting & Stopping

The GetMail interface can be started or stopped by using the PG Admin program.  Right-click on the 'GetMail' object (found under the 'Interfaces' object) and then choose 'Start' or 'Stop' from the popup menu.  The GetMail interface will start or stop within a few seconds.  The MDaemon mail server must be fully operational in order for the GetMail interface to work.


Overview

Using MDaemon with a registered domain name, a static IP address, and a dedicated internet connection.

Advantages - This is the most efficient way to run MDaemon in regards to both speed of message delivery, and use of computer resources.  When configured this way, MDaemon can easily also act  as the primary mail server for your organization.

Disadvantages - Dedicated internet connections can sometimes be costly.

Using MDaemon with a registered domain name and a dialup connection

Advantages - This configuration is relatively efficient as far as computer resources go, and is one of the most economical ways to obtain functionality.  When configured this way, MDaemon can act as the primary mail server for your organization.

Disadvantages - There is a delay in message collection, which is directly proportional to how often MDaemon is set to dialup and check for messages.

Using MDaemon behind another mail server (i.e. MS Exchange or Unix based server)

Advantages - MDaemon runs efficiently this way.

Disadvantages - There is a small delay due to the message being passed from one server to another.  There is some setup necessary on the existing mail server.  NotePage, Inc. cannot give the exact steps necessary to configure the existing mail server.

Using MDaemon without a registered domain name and using POP mail collection

Advantages - Mail can be collected from many mailboxes on different mail servers.  This option can be used with any of the methods above.  This method can be used with either a dialup connection, or a dedicated internet connection.

Disadvantages - There is a delay in mail collection, which is directly proportional to how often MDaemon is set to collect MultiPOP mail.  There is some manual setup for each recipient within MDaemon.  This method is the least efficient in regards to both connection bandwidth and computer resources.  The connection and processor speeds can limit the number of MultiPOP accounts that can be collected.


Where to get MDaemon

The best place to get the most recent version of MDaemon is from the publisher's website: www.deerfield.com.  This is also the best source for support, update and other MDaemon information.  MDaemon is also available from one of our download sites (please note that there are two versions of MDaemon, one for Windows95/98 and one for Windows NT):

Windows95/98

www.notepager.net/download/mdaemon9x.exe

www.notepager.com/download/mdaemon9x.exe

www.notepage.net/download/mdaemon9x.exe

Windows NT

www.notepager.net/download/mdaemonnt.exe

www.notepager.com/download/mdaemonnt.exe

www.notepage.net/download/mdaemonnt.exe

FTP sites

ftp.notepager.net

ftp.notepager.com

ftp.notepage.net


Purchasing MDaemon

MDaemon is not developed or distributed by NotePage, Inc.  MDaemon must be purchased from Deerfield Communications at www.deerfield.com.


Installing MDaemon

*Note - these instructions are for MDaemon version 2.8. Other versions should be similar, but there could be minor differences between the screens.  If you run into difficulties installing or setting up MDaemon, the best resource for support information is on MDaemon's publisher's website:  www.deerfield.com

The initial installation of MDaemon is quite simple. After downloading the file:

1.  Run the executable file you downloaded.

2.  When you receive the 'Welcome to MDaemon' screen, hit the 'Next' button

3.  When you receive the 'License Agreement' screen, read the license agreement and then hit the 'I Agree to the Above' button.

4.  The next screen will prompt you for a destination directory to install MDaemon into.  Either change the destination by clicking on the browse button, or accept the default location (remember this location, you will need to enter it into PageGate later on).

5.  When you receive the 'Registration Information' screen, enter the necessary information and then hit the 'Next' button

6.  The next screen will prompt you for what components you want to install.  You must choose at least the 'MDaemon server v2.8 and supporting files' option.  It is recommended that you also choose the 'MDaemon documentation and help' option.  The other options are not used by PageGate, but you may want to select them if MDaemon is to also be used as you organization's primary mail server.  Hit the 'Next' button.

7.  When you receive the 'Ready to Install' screen, hit the 'Next' button

8.  A bar graph will now appear and show the progress of the installation of MDaemon's program files.

9.  When all the necessary files are copied, you will be asked to enter a primary and backup DNS server address.  If Mdaemon is used only for PageGate and you will not be sending out any mail or forwarding any mail, you can use the localhost address: '127.0.0.1'.  Otherwise, enter the DNS servers on your local network or your ISP's (Internet Service Provider) DNS servers.  Hit the 'Next' button when you are done.

10.  On the next screen, you can select how you want MDaemon to startup.  Choose 'Setup MDaemon as an auto-starting system service' if you want MDaemon to automatically start each time the computer is started.  Choose 'Do NOT setup MDaemon as an auto-starting system service' if you want to manually start MDaemon from the Windows start menu.  Choose 'I am upgrading so don't touch my existing service settings' only if you are upgrading from a previous version of MDaemon.  Hit the 'Next' button.

11.  The next screen will give you two options: 'Guide me through the configuration process' and 'I don't want to use the configuration wizard'.  Choose the second option so you can use the following directions.  Hit the 'Next' button

12.  When you receive the 'Installation Complete' screen, hit he 'Finish' button.

13.  At this point, a MDaemon readme document may appear, or if you have chosen to setup MDaemon as an auto-starting system service,  MDaemon will start.  Either way, please refer to the section below which best describes your MDaemon installation, to continue with the setup of MDaemon.


MDaemon with a registered domain name, static IP address, and dedicated internet connection

1.  If MDaemon wasn't automatically started by its installation program, start it now from the Windows start menu.

2.  The first screen will say 'Your domain settings and server setup information was missing…'.  Hit the 'OK' button

3.  The 'Domain Configuration' window will appear.  If the 'Domain/Gateway' tab is not the current tab, click it now.

4.  Enter the domain name that MDaemon will service into the 'Domain Name' field.   Enter the same name into the 'When sending mail use this domain in SMTP HELO instruction' field.

5.  If you have a high-speed internet connection, choose the 'Retry Undeliverable Mail Later' or the 'Send Undeliverable Outbound Mail to the Gateway Host' option.  If you have a slow internet connection, choose the 'Send Every Outbound Message to the Gateway Host' option.  If you choose either of the first two options (on the setup screen), you will also need to enter the name or address of your ISP's (Internet Service Provider) SMTP mail server.

6.  Next, click on the 'Unknown Local Mail' tab.  Check the 'Route Messages Back to Sender' box if you want incorrectly addressed mail received by MDaemon sent back to the message's sender.  For PageGate, it is recommended that you DO NOT check the 'Send Message to the Postmaster User', but you can check the 'Place Message in Bad Message Directory'.  If you do check the 'Send Message to the Postmaster User', you must manually create a mailbox for the postmaster and assign the postmaster alias to it (see the MDaemon on-line help for more information).  Hit the 'OK' button

7.  A screen will appear with the message 'Since your domain setup was incomplete at startup…'.  Hit the 'OK' button.

8.  The 'New Account Defaults' window will now appear.  If you are using MDaemon with PageGate only, uncheck the 'Allow POP Access' and 'Allow Remote Control' boxes.  If you plan to use MDaemon as your organization's mail server, refer to MDaemon's on-line documentation for explanations of the settings on this screen.  Hit the 'OK' button when you are satisfied with you settings.

9.  A screen will now appear that says 'Next, please review the default settings…'.  Hit the 'OK' button.

10.  The 'Miscellaneous Options' screen will appear.  If you are using MDaemon only for PageGate, hit the 'OK' button.  Otherwise, review the default settings that will be used to create new mail accounts and make the necessary adjustments before hitting the 'OK' button.

11.  The next screen will indicate that the setup is complete.  Hit 'OK' to finish the setup.

12.  At this point you should see an envelope icon in the Windows system tray (next to the clock).  This is MDaemon's service icon and can be double-clicked on to open the MDaemon

administration/status window.

13.  The installation and configuration of MDaemon is now complete.  PageGate must now be setup to use the MDaemon mail server.  If PageGate is not yet installed and operational, do this before continuing.

14.  Start the PG Admin program.

15.  Open the 'Interfaces' object, and then the 'GetMail' object.  Choose the 'Settings' object from beneath the 'GetMail' object.

16.  Enter the location of where you installed MDaemon into the 'Mail Server Path (local)' field.  This must be a local path on a local drive (i.e. C:\MDAEMON\).  The browse button '…' can also be used to find MDaemon's directory.

17.  In the 'Mail Server Path (network)' field you should also enter the location of where you installed MDaemon.  However, this path should be a network path (UNC) pointing to the same directory (i.e. \\THISSERVER\C-DRIVE\MDAEMON\).  If the PageGate Administration program (PG Admin) will NEVER be run from a remote workstation, you can use the same path that you used for the local path above.

18.  Check the 'Enabled' box.  If the 'Enabled' box will not check, one of the mail server paths is incorrect.

19.  Enter a default domain name to be used if PageGate sends outgoing mail in the 'Default Domain name' field.  This should match the domain name you used in MDaemon's setup.

20.  Hit the 'Apply' button.

21.  PageGate is now ready to accept email.

Notes:

- PageGate will automatically create, maintain, and delete the necessary accounts in MDaemon for PageGate to operate.  There is no need to administer anything through the MDaemon administration interface.

- If you have setup PageGate to use MDaemon after already setting up recipients and groups in PageGate, you will have to edit each recipient or group that was setup and enable the mail service for that recipient or group.

- All new recipients and groups that are setup will have the mail service enabled by default.

- Be sure that the 'Maintain Mailbox' option is also checked for each recipient or group you want to receive email.


MDaemon with a registered domain name and a dialup connection

1.  If MDaemon wasn't automatically started by its installation program, start it now from the Windows start menu.

2.  The first screen will say 'Your domain settings and server setup information was missing…'.  Hit the 'OK' button

3.  The 'Domain Configuration' window will appear.  If the 'Domain/Gateway' tab is not the current tab, click it now.

4.  Enter the domain name that MDaemon will service into the 'Domain Name' field.   Enter the same name into the 'When sending mail use this domain in SMTP HELO instruction' field.

5.  If you have a high-speed internet connection, choose the 'Retry Undeliverable Mail Later' or the 'Send Undeliverable Outbound Mail to the Gateway Host' option.  If you have a slow internet connection, choose the 'Send Every Outbound Message to the Gateway Host' option.  If you choose either of the first two options (on the setup screen), you will also need to enter the name or address of your ISP's (Internet Service Provider) SMTP mail server.

6.  Next, click on the 'Unknown Local Mail' tab.  Check the 'Route Messages Back to Sender' box if you want incorrectly addressed mail received by MDaemon sent back to the message's sender.  For PageGate, it is recommended that you DO NOT check the 'Send Message to the Postmaster User', but you can check the 'Place Message in Bad Message Directory'.  If you do check the 'Send Message to the Postmaster User', you must manually create a mailbox for the postmaster and assign the postmaster alias to it (see the MDaemon on-line help for more information).  Hit the 'OK' button

7.  A screen will appear with the message 'Since your domain setup was incomplete at startup…'.  Hit the 'OK' button.

8.  The 'New Account Defaults' window will now appear.  If you are using MDaemon with PageGate only, uncheck the 'Allow POP Access' and 'Allow Remote Control' boxes.  If you plan to use MDaemon as your organization's mail server too, refer to MDaemon's on-line documentation for the explanations of the settings on this screen.  Hit the 'OK' button when you are satisfied with you settings.

9.  A screen will now appear that says 'Next, please review the default settings…'.  Hit the 'OK' button.

10.  The 'Miscellaneous Options' screen will appear.  If you are using MDaemon only for PageGate, hit the 'OK' button.  Otherwise, review the default settings that will be used to create new mail accounts and make the necessary adjustments before hitting the 'OK' button.

11.  The next screen will indicate that the setup is complete.  Hit 'OK' to finish the setup.

12.  At this point you should see an envelope icon in the Windows system tray (next to the clock).  This is MDaemon's service icon and can be double-clicked on to open the MDaemon configuration/status window.

13.  The next step is to setup MDaemon to connect to your ISP (Internet Service Provider) so it can collect and send email.  In order to do this, Windows 'Dial-up Networking' must already be installed and operational.  Test connecting to your ISP before continuing the setup of MDaemon.

14.  Double-click on the envelope icon in the Windows system tray (next to the clock).  This will bring up the MDaemon administration screen.

15.  Choose 'Setup' and then 'RAS dialup/dialdown' from the menu.  The 'RAS Dialup Settings' window will appear with the 'Dialup Setting' tab selected by default.

16.  Check the box labeled 'Enable RAS Dialup/Dialdown Engine', and uncheck 'Inform Postmaster When Dialup Attempts Fail'.  You should review the rest of the settings on this screen to see if you want to make any other changes for your installation.

17.  Choose the second tab on this screen labeled 'ISP Logon Settings'.  Check the box 'Use Any Currently Active Dialup Session'.  Enter the logon name and password you use to connect to your ISP in their respective fields.  Then choose which existing RAS dialup profile you want MDaemon to use (dialup networking should already be setup).  When satisfied with you settings, hit the 'OK' button.

18.  Choose 'Setup' and then 'Send/receive scheduler' from the menu.  Set the 'Local Mail Processing Interval' to one minute.  Uncheck the box 'Process Remote Mail at Local Interval Also'.  Under the 'Simple Scheduling' section, check the 'Wait' box and enter how often you want MDaemon to check for mail next to it.  There are many options on this screen for how and when you want MDaemon to check for mail.  Please refer to MDaemon's on-line help files for more information on these options.  Hit 'OK' when you are done.  If MDaemon asks you if you want it to automatically setup trigger times, hit the 'Yes' button.

19.  The installation and configuration of MDaemon is now complete.  PageGate must now be setup to use the MDaemon mail server.  If PageGate is not yet installed and operational, do this before continuing.

20.  Start the PG Admin program.

21.  Open the 'Interfaces' object, and then the 'GetMail' object.  Choose the 'Settings' object from beneath the 'GetMail' object.

22.  Enter the location of where you installed MDaemon into the 'Mail Server Path (local)' field.  This must be a local path on a local drive (i.e. C:\MDAEMON\).  The browse button '…' can also be used to find MDaemon's directory.

23.  In the 'Mail Server Path (network)' field you should also enter the location of where you installed MDaemon.  However, this path should be a network path (UNC) pointing to the same directory (i.e. \\THISSERVER\C-DRIVE\MDAEMON\).  If the PageGate Administration program (PG Admin) will NEVER be run from a remote workstation, you can use the same path that you used for the local path above.

24.  Check the 'Enabled' box.  If the 'Enabled' box will not check, one of the mail server paths is incorrect.

25.  Enter a default domain name to be used if PageGate sends outgoing mail in the 'Default Domain name' field.  This should match the domain name that you used in MDaemon's setup.

26.  Hit the 'Apply' button.

27.  PageGate is now ready to accept email.

Notes:

- When using a dialup connection, you can force an immediate dialup/collection by choosing 'Process local and remote queue' from MDaemon's 'Queues' menu, or by clicking on the icon with the blue arrows pointing in a circle on MDaemon's button bar.

- PageGate will automatically create, maintain, and delete the necessary accounts in MDaemon, for PageGate to operate.  There is no need to administer anything through the MDaemon administration interface.

- If you have setup PageGate to use MDaemon after already setting up recipients and groups in PageGate, you will have to edit each recipient or group that was setup and enable the mail service for that recipient or group.

- All new recipients and groups that are setup will have the mail service enabled by default.

- Be sure that the 'Maintain Mailbox' option is also checked for each recipient or group you want to receive email.


MDaemon behind another mail server (i.e. MS Exchange or Unix based server)

Pre-Setup Issues:

- If hostnames are assigned to your computers that resolve to their IP addresses, be sure to use the hostname of the computer that MDaemon is running on for MDaemon's domain name.

- If hostname to IP address resolution is not operational at your installation, follow these steps to create an imaginary domain to be used with MDaemon.

1.  Assign a static IP address to the computer that MDaemon will be run on.

2.  Edit the hosts file on both the MDaemon computer and on the computer running you current mail server.  Make an entry in each file with the IP address of the MDaemon computer and an imaginary domain name (i.e. pagingserver.com).

3.  If done correctly, typing 'ping pagingserver.com' (or whatever you chose), on both machines should successfully ping the MDaemon computer.

4.  Use this imaginary domain name for MDaemon's domain name.

- In order for PageGate/MDaemon to receive messages, a forwarding rule must be setup for each email account on the existing mail server, that will forward a copy of all messages to the recipient's account on the MDaemon server.  The account to forward to would be <the PageGate recipient's username>@<the domain name setup above>.  For example if the domain for MDaemon is 'pagingserver.com' and a recipient is setup in PageGate called 'mypager', messages should be forwarded from the recipient's existing email account on the existing mail server to 'mypager@pagingserver.com'.

1.  If MDaemon wasn't automatically started by its installation program, start it now from the Windows start menu.

2.  The first screen will say 'Your domain settings and server setup information was missing…'.  Hit the 'OK' button

3.  The 'Domain Configuration' window will appear.  If the 'Domain/Gateway' tab is not the current tab, click it now.

4.  Enter the domain name that MDaemon will service into the 'Domain Name' field (see 'Pre-Setup Issues' above).   Enter the same name into the 'When sending mail use this domain in SMTP HELO instruction' field.

5.  Next, choose the 'Send Every Outbound Message to the Gateway Host' option and enter the hostname or IP address of your existing mail server into the 'Gateway Host's IP or Domain Name' field.

6.  Next, click on the 'Unknown Local Mail' tab.  For PageGate, it is recommended that you DO NOT check the 'Route Messages Back to Sender' and DO NOT check 'Send Message to the Postmaster User', but you can check the 'Place Message in Bad Message Directory'.  If you do check the 'Send Message to the Postmaster User', you must manually create a mailbox for the postmaster and assign the postmaster alias to it (see the MDaemon on-line help for more information).  Hit the 'OK' button

7.  A screen will appear with the message 'Since your domain setup was incomplete at startup…'.  Hit the 'OK' button.

8.  The 'New Account Defaults' window will now appear.  If you are using MDaemon with PageGate only, uncheck the 'Allow POP Access' and 'Allow Remote Control' boxes.  Hit the 'OK' button when you are satisfied with you settings.

9.  A screen will now appear that says 'Next, please review the default settings…'.  Hit the 'OK' button.

10 At the 'Miscellaneous Options' screen, hit the 'OK' button.

11.  The next screen will indicate that the setup is complete.  Hit 'OK' to finish the setup.

12.  At this point you should see an envelope icon in the Windows system tray (next to the clock).  This is MDaemon's service icon and can be double-clicked on to open the MDaemon administration/status window.

13.  The installation and configuration of MDaemon is now complete.  PageGate must now be setup to use the MDaemon mail server.  If PageGate is not yet installed and operational, do this before continuing.

14.  Start the PG Admin program.

15.  Open the 'Interfaces' object, and then the 'GetMail' object.  Choose the 'Settings' object from beneath the 'GetMail' object.

16.  Enter the location of where you installed MDaemon into the 'Mail Server Path (local)' field.  This must be a local path on a local drive (i.e. C:\MDAEMON\).  The browse button '…' can also be used to find MDaemon's directory.

17.  In the 'Mail Server Path (network)' field you should also enter the location of where you installed MDaemon.  However, this path should be a network path (UNC) pointing to the same directory (i.e. \\THISSERVER\C-DRIVE\MDAEMON\).  If the PageGate Administration program (PG Admin) will NEVER be run from a remote workstation, you can use the same path that you used for the local path above.

18.  Check the 'Enabled' box.  If the 'Enabled' box will not check, one of the mail server paths is incorrect.

19.  Enter a default domain name to be used if PageGate sends outgoing mail in the 'Default Domain name' field.  This should match the domain name that you used in MDaemon's setup.

20.  Hit the 'Apply' button.

21.  PageGate is now ready to accept email.

Notes:

- PageGate will automatically create, maintain, and delete the necessary accounts in MDaemon, for PageGate to operate.  There is no need to administer anything through the MDaemon administration interface.

- If you have setup PageGate to use MDaemon after already setting up recipients and groups in PageGate, you will have to edit each recipient or group that was setup and enable the mail service for that recipient or group.

- All new recipients and groups that are setup will have the mail service enabled by default.

- Be sure that the 'Maintain Mailbox' option is also checked for each recipient or group you want to receive email.


MDaemon without a registered domain name and using POP mail collection

Pre-Setup Issues

- In order to collect mail from POP mail boxes, you must have the name of the POP mail server to collect from, the logon name, and the password for the mail account.

- Some mail systems do not allow you to collect POP mail unless you are connected directly through their network (some sort of email firewall).

- Some mail systems are proprietary and cannot be collected from by using the standard POP protocol (i.e. AOL, CompuServe, etc.)

- If you are using this option with a dedicated connection, ignore steps 13-18 which deal with the setup of dialup networking  connections.

1.  If MDaemon wasn't automatically started by its installation program, start it now from the Windows start menu.

2.  The first screen will say 'Your domain settings and server setup information was missing…'.  Hit the 'OK' button

3.  The 'Domain Configuration' window will appear.  If the 'Domain/Gateway' tab is not the current tab, click it now.

4.  If you have a registered domain name for your organization, enter it into the 'Domain Name' field.  Otherwise, you can make up an imaginary domain name here because MDaemon will not be acting as an incoming SMTP server (i.e. pagingserver.com).   Enter the same name into the 'When sending mail use this domain in SMTP HELO instruction' field.

5.  If you have a high-speed internet connection, choose the 'Retry Undeliverable Mail Later' or the 'Send Undeliverable Outbound Mail to the Gateway Host' option.  If you have a slow internet connection, choose the 'Send Every Outbound Message to the Gateway Host' option.  If you choose either of the first two options (on the setup screen), you will also need to enter the name or address of your ISP's (Internet Service Provider) SMTP mail server.  These settings are not important if you are not sending any outgoing mail with MDaemon.

6. Next, click on the 'Unknown Local Mail' tab.  For PageGate, it is recommended that you DO NOT check the 'Route Messages Back to Sender' and DO NOT check 'Send Message to the Postmaster User', but you can check the 'Place Message in Bad Message Directory'.  If you do check the 'Send Message to the Postmaster User', you must manually create a mailbox for the postmaster and assign the postmaster alias to it (see the MDaemon on-line help for more information).  Hit the 'OK' button.

7.  A screen will appear with the message 'Since your domain setup was incomplete at startup…'.  Hit the 'OK' button.

8.  The 'New Account Defaults' window will now appear.  If you are using MDaemon with PageGate only, uncheck the 'Allow POP Access' and 'Allow Remote Control' boxes.  If you plan to use MDaemon as your company's mail server too, refer to MDaemon's on-line documentation for the explanations of the settings on this screen.  Hit the 'OK' button when you are satisfied with you settings.

9.  A screen will now appear that says 'Next, please review the default settings…'.  Hit the 'OK' button.

10.  The 'Miscellaneous Options' screen will appear.  If you are using MDaemon only for PageGate, hit the 'OK' button.  Otherwise, review the default settings that will be used to create new mail accounts and make the necessary adjustments before hitting the 'OK' button.

11.  The next screen will indicate that the setup is complete.  Hit 'OK' to finish the setup.

12.  At this point you should see an envelope icon in the Windows system tray (next to the clock).  This is MDaemon's service icon and can be double-clicked on to open the MDaemon administration/status window.

13.  The next step is to setup MDaemon to connect to your ISP (Internet Service Provider) so it can collect and send email.  In order to do this, Windows' 'Dial-up Networking' must already be installed and operational.  Test connecting to your ISP before continuing the setup of MDaemon.

14.  Double-click on the envelope icon in the Windows system tray (next to the clock).  This will bring up the MDaemon administration screen.

15.  Choose 'Setup' and then 'RAS dialup/dialdown' from the menu.  The 'RAS Dialup Settings' window will appear with the 'Dialup Setting' tab selected by default.

16.  Check the box labeled 'Enable RAS Dialup/Dialdown Engine', and uncheck 'Inform Postmaster When Dialup Attempts Fail'.  You should review the rest of the settings on this screen to see if you want to make any other changes for you installation.

17.  Choose the second tab on this screen labeled 'ISP Logon Settings'.  Check the box 'Use Any Currently Active Dialup Session'.  Enter the logon name and password you use to connect to your ISP in their respective fields.  Then choose which existing RAS dialup profile you want MDaemon to use (dialup networking should already be setup).  When satisfied with you settings, hit the 'OK' button.

18.  Choose 'Setup' and then 'Send/receive scheduler' from the menu.  Set the 'Local Mail Processing Interval' to one minute.  Uncheck the box 'Process Remote Mail at Local Interval Also'.  Under the 'Simple Scheduling' section, check the 'Wait' box and enter how often you want MDaemon to check for mail next to it.  There are many options on this screen for how and when you want MDaemon to check for mail.  Please refer to MDaemon's on-line help files for more information on these options.  Hit 'OK' when you are done.  If MDaemon asks you if you want it to automatically setup trigger times, hit the 'Yes' button.

19.  As a final step, from MDaemon's 'File' menu choose the 'Enable MultiPOP server' option (this should disable MultiPOP).  Next, choose 'File' and 'Enable MultiPOP server' again (this will re-enable MultiPOP).  You will now receive a window with two choices.  Select the 'Collect MultiPOP Mail Every Time Remote Mail is Processed' option.  Hit 'OK' when done.

20.  The installation and general configuration of MDaemon is now complete.  PageGate must now be setup to use the MDaemon mail server.  If PageGate is not yet installed and operational, do this now.

21.  Start the PG Admin program.

22.  Open the 'Interfaces' object, and then the 'GetMail' object.  Choose the 'Settings' object from beneath the 'GetMail' object.

23.  Enter the location of where you installed MDaemon into the 'Mail Server Path (local)' field.  This must be a local path on a local drive (i.e. C:\MDAEMON\).  The browse button '…' can also be used to find MDaemon's directory.

24.  In the 'Mail Server Path (network)' field you should also enter the location of where you installed MDaemon.  However, this path should be a network path (UNC) pointing to the same directory (i.e. \\THISSERVER\C-DRIVE\MDAEMON\).  If the PageGate Administration program (PG Admin) will NEVER be run from a remote workstation, you can use the same path that you used for the local path above.

25.  Check the 'Enabled' box.  If the 'Enabled' box will not check, one of the mail server paths is incorrect.

26.  Enter a default domain name to be used if PageGate sends outgoing mail in the 'Default Domain name' field.  This should match the domain name that you used in MDaemon's setup.

27.  Hit the 'Apply' button.

28.  For each recipient setup in PageGate, there will be some manual setup necessary in MDaemon for the MultiPOP function to work.  After setting up a recipient in PageGate, go back to the MDaemon administration screen (double-click on the envelope icon in the Windows system tray) and follow the next steps.

29.  Choose 'Accounts' and then 'Edit account' from the MDaemon menu.

30.  Highlight a recipient that you have setup in PageGate, and hit the 'OK' button.

31.  The 'Account  Editor' screen will appear.  Click on the 'MultiPOP' tab along the top

32.  Check the 'Enable MultiPOP Mail Collection For This Account' box.  In the 'Server' field, enter the name or IP address of the POP mail server you want to collect mail from.  Enter the logon name and password for the mail account you want to collect into their respective fields.  Make sure the 'Enable This Entry' box is checked.  Check the 'Leave a Copy of Message on POP Server' box if you only want to collect a copy of the mail message, and want to leave the original message in the mailbox that you are collecting from.  Hit the 'Add' button and then the 'OK' button.

33.  MultiPOP mail collection is now setup for this recipient.  Please note that more than one remote mailbox can be collected from for a single PageGate recipient by making multiple entries into the account's MultiPOP screen.

34.  PageGate is now ready to accept email.

Notes:

- When using a dialup connection, you can force an immediate dialup/collection by choosing 'Process local and remote queue' from MDaemon's 'Queues' menu, or by clicking on the icon with the blue arrows pointing in a circle on MDaemon's button bar.

- If you have setup PageGate to use MDaemon after already setting up recipients and groups in PageGate, you will have to edit each recipient or group that was already setup and enable the mail service for that recipient or group.

- All new recipients and groups that are setup will have the mail service enabled by default.

- Be sure that the 'Maintain Mailbox' option is also checked for each recipient or group you want to receive email.


Ad-Hoc

Email messages can be used to send messages to pagers by using their PIN (ID) numbers.  This option is only available with the 5000 pager license or greater.  The advantage of this feature is that a user account for each pager does not have to be setup in PageGate.  Only a single Ad-Hoc recipient needs to be setup for each carrier.  The disadvantage is that the sender must know the PIN (ID) numbers of the pagers (harder to remember than recipient names).  Sending messages using Ad-Hoc is similar to sending Multi-Page messages.  In PageGate's Admin program, create a recipient and set it as an Ad-Hoc recipient.  The carrier information must be correct; it is used to set which carrier the messages are sent to. To send an Ad-Hoc email message, address the email to the Ad-Hoc recipient, and then specify all the PIN (ID) numbers the message should be sent to in the subject line of the email message.  PIN (ID) numbers in the subject line should be separated by spaces, commas, or semi-colons.


MultiPage

A single email message can send its contents to many PageGate recipients by using the Multi-Page feature.  A Multi-Page recipient must first be setup in PageGate's Admin program.  It is simply used as a flag, the recipient information is not important.  To send a Multi-Page message, address the email to the Multi-Page recipient, and then specify all the recipients the message should be sent to in the subject line of the email message.  Recipient names in the subject line should be separated by spaces, commas, or semi-colons.  If some recipients are to be used exclusively with the Multi-Page option, you may not want them to actually have a mailbox on the mail server.  See 'Maintain Mailbox' below.


Maintain Mailbox

By default, a mailbox is created on the mail server for all recipients that have the email service enabled.  If any recipients are setup with the intention of only being used with the Multi-Page feature, there is no need for those recipients to have a mailbox on the mail server. On the recipient setup screen, this box can be unchecked so that no mailbox will be maintained for that recipient.


Email Outcome

When email is used to send messages to PageGate, the sender has no way of knowing if the message was actually received, accepted as valid, or sent to the paging terminal.  When the Email Outcome option is checked, an email message will be sent back to the sender if there is a problem with the message or when the message is successfully sent to the paging terminal.


Remove Sender's Domain

When email messages are sent to PageGate, the sender's email address is used as the 'from' field, and sent with the message to the paging terminal and ultimately to the recipient's pager.  Some pagers do not hold or display a lot of characters, and also some email addresses can be very long.  If you want the domain portion of the sender's address (the part after the @) stripped off, check this box in the recipient's setup screen.


Additional Notes

PageGate automatically maintains mail accounts on the MDaemon mail server for its recipients (if the GetMail service is enabled for the recipient).  The email address in the mail server is the same as the recipient's username in PageGate.  When forwarding information is changed, or recipients are deleted within PageGate, the changes are made automatically in the mail server too.  The MDaemon mail server can be run as the sole mail server or in conjunction with an existing mail server.  Many PageGate users are using MDaemon for their paging installation only.  They simply setup the user accounts on their existing mail server to forward a copy of each user's email messages to the recipient's account on the 'Paging' (MDaemon) mail server.


Overview

The GetWeb module enables PageGate to take messages that have been entered in a form on a web page, and sent them to a pager.  It is responsible for retrieving these messages from a web server.  A CGI program (webgate.exe) is included with GetWeb to be used with the web server.  Webgate is a Windows CGI program and therefore can only be used with Windows based web servers.  When recipient accounts are added into PageGate, personal web pages, for the recipients, can be automatically created from a web page template (some example templates are included).  Optionally, custom designed web pages can be used for each recipient.  Groups defined within PageGate can also have web pages automatically created for them.  Other web page options are: A generic web page that can be used to send a message to any recipient by entering their username.  An Ad-Hoc web page where a pager's PIN (ID) number can be entered to send a message.  And, a drop-down list web page where the sender can choose one or more names from a list of recipients.  Web pages can even be hosted on any number of remote servers, and still use the webgate CGI program on the local server to send messages to PageGate.


Starting & Stopping

The GetWeb interface can be started or stopped by using the PG Admin program.  Right-click on the 'GetWeb' object (found under the 'Interfaces' object) and then choose 'Start' or 'Stop' from the popup menu.  The GetWeb interface will start or stop within a few seconds.


Overview

PageGate can be used with any Windows based web server.  Although we are unable to give details here on every available web server, integrating PageGate into an existing web server is a simple process with very straight-forward concepts.  Please refer to your web server's documentation for the exact steps necessary to accomplish the requirements outlined in the following sections.


Setup

1.  PageGate can automatically create web pages for each of its recipients and groups.  In order for this to be possible, PageGate must have full rights to the webpage directories used by the web server.  In PageGate's GetWeb settings, the 'Web Pages Path' must be set to this directory.

2.  PageGate uses a CGI program to collect data from the generated (or custom made) web pages.  Most web servers setup, by default, a directory to hold CGI programs (usually named 'Scripts', 'cgi-bin', or 'cgibin').  If not, one must be setup.  The web server program must have sufficient rights to be able to execute the CGI programs.

3.  PageGate's CGI (webgate.exe) creates temporary data files as part of its operation.  This CGI must have sufficient rights to create these files.  In most cases, the temporary files are created in the same directory as the CGI (Microsoft IIS users, please see  the notes regarding IIS at the end of this section).

4.  The PageGate application must have full access to the temporary files produces by the webgate CGI program.  In PageGate's GetWeb settings, the 'CGI Data Path' must be set to this directory.

5.  If the location of the temporary files is different than the location of the CGI program (webgate.exe), you may have to manually copy the webgate.exe program from the PageGate program directory to the web server's CGI directory.

*Notes for Microsoft IIS (web server)

- IIS creates a default location for CGI programs.  It is named 'Scripts' and can be found under the 'inetpub' directory.  This is the best place to put PageGate's CGI program (webgate.exe), as it is already setup with all the proper rights.  If you use a different location for your CGI programs, be sure that this location has all the proper rights to run CGI programs.  If not, you will most likely receive 400 or 500 series errors in you web browser when trying to send messages to PageGate.

- Different version of IIS store the webgate CGI's temporary data files in different locations.  Some versions put them in the same directory as the CGI ('Scripts' by default).  This is how most other web servers work.  Other versions of IIS put the temporary data files in the web pages root directory ('wwwroot' by default).  If PageGate doesn't pickup any messages when using one settings, try the other for GetWeb's 'CGI Data Path'.


Advanced web server concepts

In order for PageGate to collect data from web pages, the webgate.exe CGI program's data files must be directly accessible by PageGate's GetWeb module.  In most cases, this means that the web server must be running on the same LAN (local area network) as PageGate.  Also, for availability reasons, the web server needs to have a dedicated (see 'Solution3' below for an option that can use a dialup connection) connection to the internet.  This does not mean, however, that all your organization's web pages must reside on this local web server.  Here are some examples:

Although your location has a dedicated internet connection, it is not fast enough to host your organization's web pages (your connection may be a dedicated dialup connection or something else less than a T1).  Because of this, your webpages are stored on a remote web hosting company's server (often a virtual or co-located host) which has multiple high-speed internet connections.

Problem:  PageGate's CGI program can't be put on the remotely hosted web server because it's data files are not directly accessible by PageGate.

Solution1:  Run a web server in-house that hosts only the web pages used by PageGate and that hosts PageGate's CGI (webgate.exe).  The web pages on the remotely hosted website could easily link to the locally hosted web pages when necessary.  This way the CGI's data files will be on the local server and accessible by PageGate.  There would be minimal bandwidth needed for this configuration.

Solution2:  Don't setup PageGate to automatically create web pages for you.  Create your own web pages for sending messages, and keep the pages on the remotely hosted web server.  Put the PageGate CGI on an in-house web server.  In the web pages that reside on the remotely hosted web server, point the CGI to execute from the in-house web server.  This way, the CGI's data files will be on the local server and accessible by PageGate.  There would be very little bandwidth used for this configuration.

Solution3:  Although this solution is not supported by NotePage, Inc., several customers have made this work.  Put PageGate's CGI program (webgate.exe) up on the remotely hosted web server.  Do not set PageGate to automatically generate web pages.  Create your own web pages for sending messages and put them up on the remotely hosted web server too.  The webgate CGI program will create its data files up on the remotely hosted web server (this can only work if the remote web server is Windows based).  Next setup an FTP program at the local site to periodically log onto the remotely hosted website and download the CGI's data files (several shareware applications are available with this capability).  Setup the PageGate GetWeb module's 'CGI Data Path' to the location where the CGI data files are downloaded to by the FTP program.  This configuration can be used with a dialup internet connection if a dedicated connection is not available.


Overview

When a person fills out a form on a web page and presses the submit button, a program is run by the web server and given the information that was typed into the form.  One kind of program that can be run by the web server is called a CGI.  The webgate.exe CGI program is included with the GetWeb interface for this purpose.  Webgate must be put on the web server in a directory where the server looks for CGI programs.  This is usually the cgi-bin or scripts directory.  When you specify the CGI Data Path in PageGate's Admin program, the webgate.exe program is copied to that location.  The webgate.exe CGI can be named as the form action in any web page to enable the form's data to be sent to it.  Here is a simple web page example that uses webgate.exe:

<HTML>

<HEAD>

<TITLE>

Sample Pager Web Page

</TITLE>

</HEAD>

<BODY>

<H2><CENTER>Enter a message to be sent to a pager</CENTER></H2>

<HR>

<FORM ACTION ="http://www.mydomain.com/cgi-bin/webgate.exe" METHOD=POST>

<CENTER>FROM</CENTER>

<CENTER>

<INPUT SIZE=40 MAXLENGTH=100 NAME="FRM"></TEXTAREA>

</CENTER>

<BR>

<CENTER>MESSAGE</CENTER>

<CENTER>

<TEXTAREA COLS=60 ROWS=5 WRAP=VIRTUAL NAME="MSG"></TEXTAREA>

</CENTER>

<BR>

<CENTER>

<INPUT TYPE=SUBMIT NAME = "SEND" VALUE = "SEND PAGE">

<INPUT TYPE=RESET VALUE = "CLEAR FORM">

</CENTER>

<INPUT TYPE=HIDDEN NAME="USER" VALUE="pageruser">

</FORM>

</BODY>

</HTML>

In this example, please notice the path used for the webgate.exe CGI program.  In web pages the path should be set to the full URL of the CGI program.  You should substitute your domain name for 'mydomain.com'.  The recipient name of the pager in this example is 'pageruser'.  Every web page that is to use webgate must have the following variables included in them.  They can be either entered by the user of the webpage, or hard coded into the form:

FORM ACTION - naming webgate.exe as the form's action

FRM - a text field that will contain the name of who the message is being sent from

MSG - a text field that will contain the actual message text

USER - a text field that will contain the name of the recipient (pager) the message is to be sent to

Here are some optional fields that can be used:

NOPAGE - if this field is set to 'NOPAGE', the message won't actually be sent to the recipient's pager.  It will however be forwarded to the recipient's email forwarding address (if GetMail is setup).  This would turn the web page into a sort of web to email gateway.

SUBJECT - to use the Multi-Page option, a SUBJECT field is used for the recipient names.

This is an example where the pager's recipient is not hard-coded into the web page, and can be typed manually each time (also the NOPAGE option is given):

<HTML>

<HEAD>

<TITLE>

PageGate's Page-A-User Web Page

</TITLE>

</HEAD>

<BODY>

<H2><CENTER>Fill in This Form to Send a Page</CENTER></H2>

<FORM ACTION ="http://www.mydomain.com/cgi-bin/webgate.exe" METHOD=POST>

<CENTER>

USER <INPUT SIZE=40 MAXLENGTH=40 NAME="USER"></TEXTAREA>

</CENTER>

<BR>

<CENTER>

FROM <INPUT SIZE=40 MAXLENGTH=80 NAME="FRM"></TEXTAREA>

</CENTER>

<BR>

<CENTER>MESSAGE</CENTER>

<CENTER>

<TEXTAREA COLS=60 ROWS=5 WRAP=VIRTUAL NAME="MSG"></TEXTAREA>

</CENTER>

<BR>

<CENTER>

<INPUT TYPE=SUBMIT NAME = "SEND" VALUE = "SEND PAGE"><INPUT TYPE=RESET VALUE = "CLEAR FORM">

</CENTER>

</FORM>

</BODY>

</HTML>


Custom webpages

Custom web pages can be used with PageGate instead of pages created from templates.  Simply check off the 'Custom Page' option on the recipient's web page setup screen to tell PageGate not to create web pages for that recipient.


Templates

A custom web page could be written for each recipient, however this approach may be overwhelming for a large-scale installation.  PageGate allows you to create web page template files that are used to automatically create web pages for its recipients.  When you are creating a new recipient, or editing an existing recipient in PageGate's Admin program, you can hit the 'Web Page' button to create or edit the web page for the current recipient (GetWeb must be enabled for this button to be active).  First, you must choose a template file from the drop-down list (template files belong in the 'templates' directory beneath the 'Web Pages Path' directory).  After a template is chosen, enter the text messages to be inserted into the template file.  Below is an example template file that would be used to create a web page similar to the first example above (this template is shipped with PageGate and named basic.htm).

<HTML>

<HEAD>

<TITLE>

~~~text1~~~

</TITLE>

</HEAD>

<BODY>

<H2><CENTER>~~~text2~~~</CENTER></H2>

<HR>

<FORM ACTION ="http://www.mydomain.com/cgi-bin/webgate.exe" METHOD=POST>

<CENTER>FROM</CENTER>

<CENTER>

<INPUT SIZE=40 MAXLENGTH=100 NAME="FRM"></TEXTAREA>

</CENTER>

<BR>

<CENTER>MESSAGE</CENTER>

<CENTER>

<TEXTAREA COLS=60 ROWS=5 WRAP=VIRTUAL NAME="MSG"></TEXTAREA>

</CENTER>

<BR>

<CENTER>

<INPUT TYPE=SUBMIT NAME = "SEND" VALUE = "SEND PAGE">

<INPUT TYPE=RESET VALUE = "CLEAR FORM">

</CENTER>

<INPUT TYPE=HIDDEN NAME="USER" VALUE="~~~user~~~">

</FORM>

</BODY>

</HTML>

PageGate uses text substitution with the template files to insert message text and recipient names into the template files (notice ~~~text1~~~, ~~~text2~~~, and ~~~user~~~ in the above example).  If you chose this template while setting up a new recipient in PageGate, you would set the Text1 field on the recipient's web page setup screen to 'Sample Pager Web Page', and the Text2 field to 'Enter a message to be sent to a pager'.  The ~~~user~~~ field will automatically replaced with the recipient.  Up to ten text variables (~~~text1~~~ through ~~~text10~~~) can be used in the template files for automatic substitution.  In addition, up to five image variables(~~~image1~~~ through ~~~image5~~~) can be used to substitute image file names into the template (these files must exist in the \images directory beneath the 'Web Pages Path' directory).

When PageGate creates a web page for a recipient, it creates a directory under the 'Web Pages Path' directory that is specified on the GetWeb's settings screen.  The directory is named the same as the PageGate recipient's name.  The web page is named default.htm (and copied to index.htm) and placed into the newly created directory.  This structure allows for easy addressing of recipient web pages.  For example if the 'Web Pages Path' was set to the root directory of the web server at 'mydomain.com', and a recipient was created with the name 'chris', you could get Chris' web page by going to www.mydomain.com/chris.  If the root directory of the web server were c:\webserver\wwwroot, Chris' web page file would be c:\webserver\wwwroot\chris\default.htm (or index.htm).


Drop-down list pages

Group list web pages enable PageGate to maintain web pages that have a drop-down list of recipient names on them.  These pages allow web users to choose one or more names from a drop-down list to send a message to.  When recipients belonging to groups that have drop-down lists change, the drop-down list web pages are automatically updated.  To enable Group List web pages, you must first have a group setup in PageGate with recipients in it.  Create a web page for the group by pressing the 'Web Page' button on the group's setup screen.  Choose a Group List template file to be used (an example called list.htm is included).  Fill in any needed text or image fields and check the 'Group List' option box.  A Group List web page will be created for that group.  Optionally you can check the 'Full Names' option box.  This option will display the recipient's full name in the web page's drop-down list, in addition to the recipient's user name.  When a message is entered from the web into the Group List web page, only the recipients selected from the list will be sent the message, not the entire group (unlike any other group web page).  Below is an example of a Group List web page:

<HTML>

<HEAD>

<TITLE>

~~~text1~~~

</TITLE>

</HEAD>

<BODY>

<H2><CENTER>~~~text2~~~</CENTER></H2>

<HR>

<FORM ACTION ="http://www.mydomain.com/cgi-bin/webgate.exe" METHOD=POST>

<INPUT TYPE=HIDDEN NAME="USER" VALUE = "~~~user~~~">

<CENTER>

<SELECT NAME="SUBJECT" SIZE=5 MULTIPLE>

~~~list~~~

</SELECT>

</CENTER>

<BR>

<CENTER>

FROM

</CENTER>

<CENTER>

<INPUT SIZE=40 MAXLENGTH=100 NAME="FRM"></TEXTAREA>

</CENTER>

<BR>

<CENTER>MESSAGE</CENTER>

<CENTER>

<TEXTAREA COLS=60 ROWS=5 WRAP=VIRTUAL NAME="MSG"></TEXTAREA>

</CENTER>

<BR><BR>

<CENTER>

<INPUT TYPE=CHECKBOX NAME="NOPAGE" VALUE = "NOPAGE">Send Email Only (do not send page)

</CENTER>

<BR>

<CENTER>

<INPUT TYPE=SUBMIT NAME = "SEND" VALUE = "SEND PAGE"><INPUT TYPE=RESET VALUE = "CLEAR FORM">

</CENTER>

</FORM>

</BODY>

</HTML>


Ad-Hoc

Messages can be sent to pagers by using their PIN (ID) numbers.  This option is only available with the 5000 pager license or greater.  The advantage of this feature is that a user account for each pager does not have to be setup in PageGate.  Only a single Ad-Hoc recipient needs to be setup for each carrier.  The disadvantage is that the sender must know the PIN (ID) numbers of the pagers (harder to remember than recipient names).  Sending messages using Ad-Hoc is similar to sending Multi-Page messages.  In PageGate's Admin program, create a recipient and set it as an Ad-Hoc recipient.  The carrier information must be correct; it is used to set which carrier the messages are sent to. With the Ad-Hoc recipient set as the web page's USER field, the SUBJECT field is used to receive the PIN (ID) numbers.  The PIN (ID) numbers can be separated by spaces, commas, or semi-colons:

<HTML>

<HEAD>

<TITLE>

PageGate's Ad-Hoc Web Page

</TITLE>

</HEAD>

<BODY>

<H2><CENTER>

Fill in This Form to Send a Page

</CENTER></H2>

<FORM ACTION ="http://www.mydomain.com/cgi-bin/webgate.exe" METHOD=POST>

<INPUT TYPE=HIDDEN NAME="USER" VALUE = "put ad-hoc user name here">

<CENTER>

TO <INPUT SIZE=60 MAXLEN=200 NAME="SUBJECT"></TEXTAREA>

</CENTER>

<BR>

<CENTER>

FROM <INPUT SIZE=40 MAXLENGTH=80 NAME="FRM"></TEXTAREA>

</CENTER>

<BR>

<CENTER>MESSAGE</CENTER>

<CENTER>

<TEXTAREA COLS=60 ROWS=5 WRAP=VIRTUAL NAME="MSG"></TEXTAREA>

</CENTER>

<BR><BR>

<CENTER><INPUT TYPE=SUBMIT NAME = "SEND" VALUE = "SEND PAGE"><INPUT TYPE=RESET VALUE = "CLEAR FORM"></CENTER>

</FORM>

</BODY>

</HTML>


MultiPage

A message can be sent to many PageGate recipients (pagers) by using the Multi-Page feature.  A Multi-Page recipient must first be setup in PageGate's Admin program.  It is simply used as a flag, the recipient information is not important. With the Multi-Page recipient set as the web page's USER field, the SUBJECT field is used to receive the actual recipient names.  The recipient names can be separated by spaces, commas, or semi-colons:

<HTML>

<HEAD>

<TITLE>

PageGate's Multi-Page Web Page

</TITLE>

</HEAD>

<BODY>

<H2><CENTER>

Fill in This Form to Send a Page.

More than one username can be input

</CENTER></H2>

<FORM ACTION ="http://www.mydomain.com/cgi-bin/webgate.exe" METHOD=POST>

<INPUT TYPE=HIDDEN NAME="USER" VALUE = "put multi-page username here">

<CENTER>

TO <INPUT SIZE=60 MAXLEN=200 NAME="SUBJECT"></TEXTAREA>

</CENTER>

<BR>

<CENTER>

FROM <INPUT SIZE=40 MAXLENGTH=80 NAME="FRM"></TEXTAREA>

</CENTER>

<BR>

<CENTER>MESSAGE</CENTER>

<CENTER>

<TEXTAREA COLS=60 ROWS=5 WRAP=VIRTUAL NAME="MSG"></TEXTAREA>

</CENTER>

<BR><BR>

<CENTER>

<INPUT TYPE=CHECKBOX NAME="NOPAGE" VALUE = "NOPAGE">Send Email Only (do not send page)

</CENTER>

<BR>

<CENTER>

<INPUT TYPE=SUBMIT NAME = "SEND" VALUE = "SEND PAGE"><INPUT TYPE=RESET VALUE = "CLEAR FORM">

</CENTER>

</FORM>

</BODY>

</HTML>


Returning to a specific webpage

When the user submits a message to PageGate, they are given a response webpage indicating the success or failure of their request.  In either case, on the response webpage an option 'Back to Message Form' is given.  This normally returns the user to the webpage form.  By setting the variable BACK_REF in the webpage, you can specify another webpage to return to rather than the form just used.

Example: (this text would be included in the web page)

<INPUT TYPE=HIDDEN NAME="BACK_REF" VALUE="http://www.mydomain.com/UseThisPage">


Custom response webpages

When a user submits a valid message to PageGate, they are given a response webpage indicating the acceptance of the messages.  You can use your own webpage to indicate the message was accepted.  You can create a standard html webpage named webgate.rsp and put it into the same directory as the webgate.exe CGI program.  If it exists, this webpage will be used instead of the standard response page.  If you want to make this file different for each user, it can be saved in the same directory as the recipient's webpage (if it exists in the user's webpage directory, it will be used before the one in the CGI directory)


Nopage option

The webgate CGI recognizes a field called 'nopage'.  If this option is selected on the webpage, the message is accepted into PageGate, but no message is sent to the recipient's pager.  If PageGate's email interface is active and the forwarding option for the recipient is setup, this option can turn the web form into a web-to-email gateway.


Additional Notes

Some knowledge of writing web pages is required to write template files (or any other web page for that matter).  The example web page files and templates (anyuser.htm, ad-hoc.htm, basic.htm, list.htm, and multipage.htm) should be used and studied before making your own.  When a web page form is submitted, the webgate CGI program checks for the existence of all required fields, and checks the recipient names against a list of valid PageGate recipients.  If any of these check fail, the web user is given an error message screen telling them what they did wrong.  The web user can then backup, fix the problem, and resubmit the form.  If the form data is accepted, the web user is given a screen stating that the message has been successfully accepted for processing.


Overview

PageGate's GUI module is a windows based client application named NotePager Net.  It is designed to run on the same Local Area Network (LAN) as the PageGate server.  NotePager Net has many advanced features such as: personal recipient lists, personal pre-programmed messages, scheduled messages, repeating messages, and spell checking.  NotePager Net is easy to install and has a very intuitive user interface.  With NotePager Net, messages can be sent from any workstation on the LAN.  The PageGate server queues up the messages and sends them with its dialers.  The workstations receive real-time status information on the messages they have sent.

Documentation for the use of the NotePager Net GUI client can be found on-line from within the NotePager Net client program, or in the windows start menu on any machine that has NotePager Net installed on it.


Starting & Stopping

NotePager Net can be started with the 'NotePager Net' icon in the Start menu.  Alternately, the NPNet.exe program can be manually run to start the client interface.

To stop NotePager Net, choose 'Exit' from the 'File' menu, or click on the 'X' control on NotePager Net's window.

When NotePager Net is minimized, it will turn into a pager icon in the Windows system tray (bottom right corner of the screen, next to the clock).  The NotePager Net window can be restored by clicking on this icon.


Additional Notes

Denying Access to the Network recipient List:

NotePager Net clients can be restricted to only sending messages to recipients in their local recipient list.  This blocks them from the network recipient list to which they have access to by default.  This option is enabled from the 'Setup' screen inside the NotePager Net client program.  Check the 'Local Userlist Only' box to stop the user from seeing the network recipient list.  You would also want to password protect the setup screen so that the user can't simply uncheck this setting.  A password can be set for the NotePager Net setup screen from the PG Admin program: click on the 'Password Protect' object found under the 'Program' object to access this setting.

Centralized Local Recipient Lists:

NotePager Net client can be setup to use shared local recipient lists.  To use this functionality, specify a local recipient list file in the NotePager Net Client's local recipient list setup screen.  The local recipient list files are simple ascii files that contain a single recipient on each line of the file.  The local recipient list files can be created and maintained from a central location by using the text editor of your choice.


Carrier

A carrier is the company you pay for your pager service.  They control the antennas, satellites, broadcast, and computer systems that are used to send the messages to your pager.  You may purchase your paging service from a reseller who represents several paging carriers.  They resell the paging service, but are not actually the paging carrier.  When setting up PageGate, you will need some information about the actual carrier that your pager is serviced by (see the installation part of the documentation for specifics).


Group

Groups can be created to help when sending the same message to many pagers.  After a group is created you can add several recipients (or other groups) into the group's member list.  Messages can be sent to a group in exactly the same way messages are sent to individual pagers.  The message, however, is delivered to all the members of the group.  *Note: be careful not include any groups within a group that has the original group as a member.  This would create a never-ending circle of pages.


Init String

What is an init string?

Different modems can't necessarily talk to each other as setup right out of the box.  Modems use many different settings and protocols.  In order for two modems to communicate, they must agree on many things such as speed, error correction, compression algorithms, etc...  By sending a modem an init string, you can control some of these parameters.

What do I need to put in my init string?

In general, the modems used by paging carriers run at a speed from 300 to 2400 baud (1200 being the most common).  They don't typically use any form of error correction or data compression protocols.  In many cases, if your modem tries to use either of these protocols, your modem will be unable to communicate with the paging terminal's modem.  In your init string you should include settings to lock you modem's baud rate to that of your carrier's modem, disable error correction protocols, and disable data compression protocols.  In addition PageGate would like your modem to issue English response codes (rather than numeric response codes), and issue complete connection information.

Do all modems use the same init string?

No, many different modem manufacturers use their own set of init string.  Init string may even be different between models by the same manufacturer.

My init string works on one carrier but not the other.

You may need a different init string to connect to each carrier.  In general your init strings will be the same, but not always.

What init string should I use?

There is no easy answer to that question.  In general, if your modem is a 2400 baud model or slower (very old models) you won't need an init string.  These older modems sometimes work best when communicating with the paging terminals.  Anything faster (9600, 14.4, 28.8, 33.6, 56K, etc.), will probably require an init string.  Some of the most common init strings are listed below.  If you have a less well known brand modem, you may need to use the documentation include with you modem to create an init string.

Common Init Strings

AT&FQ0V1X4&D2   - Minimal settings.  Works with most 1200 and 2400 baud modems. Some modems use &F0 rather than &F.  All '0' are zeros not ohs.

AT&FQ0V1X4&D2N0S37=5   - Hard coded baud rate.  Works with many 14.4 and 28.8 modems.  The added codes locks the connection baud rate to 1200 baud.  Use S37=3 for a 300 baud connection, and S37=6 for a 2400 baud connection.  Some modems use &F0 rather than &F.  All '0' are zeros not ohs.

AT&FQ0V1X4&D2N0S37=5\N0%C0   - No compression/error correction.  Works with many 14.4, 28.8 and 33.6 modems.  The added codes turn off data compression and error correction.  You can try using only one of the two additional codes (\N0 or %C0) if you modem rejects using both.  Use S37=3 for a 300 baud connection, and S37=6 for a 2400 baud connection.  Some modems use &F0 rather than &F.  All '0' are zeros not ohs.

AT&F0Q0V1X4&D2&B1&K0&M0&N2   - USRobotics (3Com) string.  Works with most USRobotics/3Com 33.6 and 56K modems (and some others too).  Use &N1 (instead of &N2) for a 300 baud connection, or &N3 for a 2400 baud connection.

Note: all '0' characters in the init strings are zeros not ohs

***More init strings may be available on our web site: www.notepager.net


Interfaces

PageGate has several front-end interfaces, which allows it to accept messages from many sources.  Each interface can be used alone, or in conjunction with the other interfaces.  Some of the interfaces gain added capabilities when used with each other.  For example, if the email gateway interface is used at the same time as the web interface, a copy of each message received via a web page can be forwarded to the recipient's normal email account (this gives the recipient a record of messages received in his/her email mailbox).  Currently supported front-end interfaces are: Windows GUI client (NotePager Net), Commandline/Ascii Interface, Email Gateway, WWW Gateway, and TTY/TDD Gateway.


Log Files

Each of PageGate's server modules can keep a log of the messages it processes.  PageGate also keeps a general log of all messages that it has sent.  A detailed log option is also available which, when enabled, provides more detailed information in each log.  The log files are accessed from the PG Admin program.


Message Content

Messages sent by PageGate are sent with more information than just the message itself.  Messages will be prefixed with the reliapage index (if enabled), the block number (if it is part of a large message that has been broken into smaller pieces.  i.e. 1 of 3, 2 of 3, 3 of 3), the sender's name, the subject of the message (optional), and then the message itself.  Each of these fields is separated with a colon (:).  Most pagers have a limited character set usually consisting of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and some symbols (periods, commas, dollar signs, exclamation points, etc.).  Non printing characters such as carriage returns, line feeds, and tabs can optionally be removed from a recipient's messages.


Message Length

PageGate supports messages of up to 2000 characters in length.  Not all carriers will support messages of this length.  If a recipient's character limit is set larger than the carrier's character limit, the message will be automatically broken into smaller messages and numbered (i.e. 1of3, 2of3, 3of3), and then sent sequentially.  The numbering of messages is important because, although PageGate sends the messages in the correct order to the paging carrier, the messages may not be received by the pager in the same order (this is possible due to the way the paging systems operate).


Modularity/Scalability

PageGate has a very modular design that allows for its high scalability.  On busy systems up to 16 intelligent dialers, each controlling it's own modem or direct cable connection, can be used.  Each of PageGate's modules can be run on a separate computer (or all on a single computer).  With all of PageGate's modules in use, the PageGate application could actually be spread across more than 10 machines.  This architecture enables PageGate to handle a very large volume of messages per hour.


Notify Only

Recipients in PageGate can be set as 'Notify Only'.  When this option is enabled, a predefined (settable) numeric message (notification code) is sent instead of the actual message.  This is most commonly used to notify a recipient with a numeric pager that an email message or a message from the web has been received (PageGate's email or web gateways must be running to receive email or web messages).


Numeric (digital) Pagers

Some pagers are only capable of displaying numbers (no letters).  These are commonly called numeric or digital pagers (beepers).  PageGate fully supports numeric pagers.  If a message is sent to a numeric pager, and the message contains letters, the recipient's notification code (999 by default) is sent instead.  This alerts the recipient that they have been sent a message that was alphanumeric in nature, and they should take steps to retrieve the actual message.  *Note: this option is very popular with PageGate's email gateway.  Recipients with numeric pagers can be notified if they receive an email message (Email Notification).  They can then connect to the Internet and check their email.


On-Call Group

PageGate has built into it a feature than can be very useful in an on-call service environment.  A schedule of recipients can be setup defining when a recipient is on-call (starting day and time, and ending day and time).  These recipients are then added to a group that has been defined as an on-call group.  When a message is sent to the group, the schedule is consulted to see which recipient or recipients the page should be sent to.  That way, only the recipients that are scheduled to be on-call receive the page.


Pager (Beeper)

Throughout PageGate's documentation the word 'pager' is used.  'Pager' is better defined as 'wireless messaging device'.  PageGate can be used to send messages to many devices other than pagers.  For example messages can be sent to digital/cellular/mobile/pcs phones, pager cards for portable computers, Personal Information Managers (PIMs), billboards, and many other wireless messaging devices.


Recipient

In PageGate, 'recipient' is synonymous with 'pager'.  A recipient is the person who carriers the actual pager or wireless messaging device. When PageGate refers to a 'recipient' it is really referring to the recipient's pager or wireless messaging device.  This approach simplifies things for the end users.  For example if a recipient were to replace their pager with a new unit, the recipient name will stay consistent, even though the pager's information would change.  Note: in previous versions of PageGate the term 'user' was used instead of 'recipient'.


Reliapage

As you are probably aware, traditional paging uses a one-way transmission.  There is no confirmation sent back from the pager that messages have (or have not) been received.  In poor coverage areas, messages can be, and are missed.  PageGate's Reliapage option sequentially numbers each message sent out.  A numbering sequence is maintained for each individual recipient.  This way, if a recipient receives messages with a number missing, they will know that they have missed a message.  Messages for an individual or group of users can be resent from within PageGate's administration program.


Repeating Pages

PageGate allows you to send a repeating message.  The message's start date and time is set.  A repeat interval is set (repeat every ? minutes, hours, and days).  Then a stop date and time is set.  This option is currently only available when using the NotePager Net (GUI) client application.


Reports

PageGate has several useful reports to help you manage the application.  Log files containing PageGate's activity are found under each module's object in the PG Admin program. Other reports include: current recipients and their settings, current carriers and their settings, and message useage by recipient.


Scheduled Pages

PageGate allows you to schedule a message to be sent at a future date and time.  This option is currently only available when using the NotePager Net (GUI) client application.


Touch-Tone Messages

Touch-tone messages are messages sent by calling a pager's phone number and sending a series of tones (like a touch tone phone) as a message.  The tones are converted to their equivalent numbers and sent to the recipient's pager.  Some paging carriers do not accept messages for numeric pagers via the TAP (IXO/PET) protocol.  They only accept touch-tone numeric messages.  PageGate can send touch-tone messages to numeric pagers if the 'TT Messages' option on the carrier setup screen is checked.


Advanced Installation

PageGate's flexibility and scalability is due to its modular design.  The modularity of PageGate allows each of its modules to be run on a separate computer.  Here is an example:

- The PageGate Scheduler module and the PageGate Database run on the production file server.

- The GetMail module runs on the mail server

- The GetWeb module runs on the web server

- 1 to 16 Dialer modules run on a communications server

- The PageGate Administration and Monitoring programs run on an administrator's workstation

- The NotePager Net GUI client runs on several workstations on the LAN

In contrast, all of the above modules can run on a single workstation or server.

Steps to install PageGate's modules on additional computers:

1.  Run PageGate's setup program.  Install the PageGate application on the new workstation or server (refer to the regular installation instructions for details).

2.  Run PageGate on the new computer.

3.  The first time PageGate is run, you will be given the 'PageGate Setup Screen' (this screen can be accessed later by choosing 'Settings' from the 'Program' object in the Admin program).

4.  Set the 'Program Directory' to where you installed PageGate on the local machine.

5.  Set the 'Database Directory' to the same location as in the existing PageGate installation (this would need to be a shared folder on the network).

6.  Set the 'Log Directory' to the same location as in the existing PageGate installation (this would need to be a shared folder on the network).

7.  Choose which of PageGate's modules are to run on this computer.  Be sure to disable the modules you choose on any existing PageGate servers.  If you are installing PageGate simply to use the Administration program, leave all the module boxes unchecked.

8.  Apply your changes.  PageGate will now start..

9.  Use the above procedure on each computer that will run one or more of PageGate's modules.


Run Styles

PageGate can be configured to run in three different styles, depending on the operating system that is on the PageGate computer: Application, Windows  9x (95 or 98) Service,  and Windows NT Service.

Here are the differences:

Application - This style will run on either Windows 9x or Windows NT.  PageGate is started and stopped just like any other program.  PageGate can be automatically run at startup by putting a shortcut to it in the Windows startup group.  The disadvantages to this style, is that if the Windows 9x computer is configured to show a login screen at startup, PageGate  can't automatically start until someone logs onto the computer.

Windows 9x service - This style will run only on a Windows 95  or 98 computer.  This style is the same as the application style with the exception that PageGate is automatically started each time the computer restarts (prior to the login screen).

Windows NT service - This style will run only on a Windows NT computer.  This option will run PageGate as a true NT system service.  Like other services, PageGate will startup even if the computer is just sitting at the Windows NT login screen.  Here are a few important notes regarding running PageGate as an NT system service:

1. When switching the run style to an NT service, you will be prompted for a user account and password for PageGate to use to log itself in.  You can leave both these fields blank to use the local computer's System Account (as long as PageGate's doesn't need to open files on another computer).  Otherwise, choose an account that already has 'Log on as a service' and 'Administrator' rights (before switching).  The administrator account does NOT have the 'Log on as a service' right by default.  You must add this right manually to the user account you intend to use.  Follow these instructions to give an existing account 'Log on as a service' rights:

a. Click on 'Start' > 'Programs' > 'Administrative Tools' > 'User Manager'.

b. From the menu choose 'Policies' and then 'User Rights'.

c. Check off 'Show Advanced Rights'

d. Choose 'Log on as a service' from the drop-down listbox.

e. Click the 'Add' button

f. Choose the user account you will be using for PageGate.

g. Click 'Add' and then 'OK'

h. Click 'OK' again

i. Click 'Quit' and then quit out of the User Manager program

2. If you change the password on the account that PageGate is using, you must update it for each of PageGate's services too.  You can use the 'Services' utility from the Windows control panel to do this, or you can switch PageGate to run as an Application and then back to run as a NT service, so you will be re-prompted for the account information.

3. The account you choose to use with the PageGate service must have sufficient rights to access all directories setup in PageGate for it's various functions (i.e. program files, database directory, log files, interface directories, etc…).

4. Like many services, PageGate may not be completely started before you log in and get the Windows desktop.  Be patient.  On computers that load several services, it can take several minutes for all the services to start.

5. In the Windows NT 'Services' utility (found in the control panel), you will see several PageGate services installed.  ONLY the one labeled 'PageGate' is set for automatic startup.  This is by design and should not be changed.

6. Starting or stopping PageGate when it is running as a service can take several minutes, especially if it is in the middle of transmitting messages to a carrier.  Please be patient.

7. You can easily start or stop PageGate's services be clicking on the pager icon in the system tray, and choosing 'Start' or 'Stop' from the menu.

8. If you are running PageGate's modules across more than one computer, each computer will run the 'PageGate' service along with the specific module(s) setup to run on that computer.  In other words, there should  only be a single instance of any module running, with the exception of the 'PageGate' service (which will be running on every computer).


Uninstalling PageGate

To uninstall PageGate you must run the 'Uninstall PageGate' utility from PageGate's program group in the Windows start menu.  Uninstalling PageGate by using the 'Add/Remove Programs' icon in the Windows control panel will NOT remove all of PageGate's settings from the computer.

When running the 'Uninstall PageGate' program, you are given two choices for what type of uninstall you want to perform: 'Uninstall Application Files Only' and 'Uninstall Entire Application'.  The first choice will leave your database and program settings intact.  This option is typically used to re-install or upgrade PageGate.  The second option removes all programs, data files, and settings from the computer.

PageGate should not be running when attempting to uninstall PageGate.  All NotePager Net clients should also be shutdown before attempting to uninstall PageGate.  The uninstall process can take several minutes and may require you to restart your computer when it has finished.


Installation

Problem:  Any number of different problems

Solution:  Be sure that there are no other programs running when you install PageGate.  There may be programs running even if you don't see them in your task bar.  Pressing <ctrl><alt><del> will bring up a list of running programs in Windows 95 and 98.  In Windows NT you can choose 'Task Manager' after hitting <ctrl><alt><del> for similar information.  Stop any program that you believe is causing the conflict.  WARNING: this should only be done by an experienced user.  WARNING: Randomly ending tasks can lock up your computer, lose data or worse.  Please consult with and experienced technician before killing any processes.  A clean reboot can sometimes also help.  Holding down the shift key while windows is starting will stop some programs from starting that automatically load at startup.  Try re-running the PageGate setup program.

Problem:  The setup program does not fully start, or the setup program for a completely different application starts

Solution: clear out the files from your temporary directory.  In Windows 95 and 98 the default location of the temporary directory is C:\Windows\Temp.  In Windows NT it is C:\Temp.  Also move, rename, or delete any existing files in your Windows or Winnt directory named setup.exe, setup1.exe or setup.lst.  Try re-running the PageGate setup program.

Problem:  The install program says it can't replace a file because it is in use

Solution:  See the first item above regarding other programs that are running while trying to install PageGate.  If that doesn't help, try to rename the existing file that is reported to be in use (moving or deleting the file usually won't work).  In most cases you will find the offending file in the C:\Windows\System or the C:\Winnt\System32 directory.  Try re-running the PageGate setup program.

Problem:  The install program still says that it can't replace a file because it is in use

Solution: - Windows 9x:  Don't try this without the help of an experienced Windows administrator.  Restart your computer and enter the 'Command Prompt Only' mode.  Rename the file that is causing the problem.  Restart windows.  You may receive some error messages on startup.  Continue past the errors if possible.  If Windows won't start, reboot, startup in 'Command Prompt Only' mode again and put the files back.  Otherwise, you should now be able to successfully run the install program.  Be sure to reboot after the installation is finished.

Solution: - Windows NT:  Don't try this without the help of an experienced Windows administrator.  Sometimes the file causing the problem is in use by a Windows NT system service (i.e. some backup programs that run as a service use the same MS Jet database drivers that PageGate does).  From the 'Services' icon in the control panel, try stopping any services that may be using the file in question.  WARNINNG: Stopping some services can lock up your computer, lose data or worse.  Please consult with and experienced technician before stopping any services.


Init Strings

What is an init string?

Different modems can't necessarily talk to each other as setup right out of the box.  Modems use many different settings and protocols.  In order for two modems to communicate, they must agree on many things such as speed, error correction, compression algorithms, etc...  By sending a modem an init string, you can control some of these parameters.

What do I need to put in my init string?

In general, the modems used by paging carriers run at a speed from 300 to 2400 baud (1200 being the most common).  They don't typically use any form of error correction or data compression protocols.  In many cases, if your modem tries to use either of these protocols, your modem will be unable to communicate with the paging terminal's modem.  In your init string you should include settings to lock you modem's baud rate to that of your carrier's modem, disable error correction protocols, and disable data compression protocols.  In addition PageGate would like your modem to issue English response codes (rather than numeric response codes), and issue complete connection information.

Do all modems use the same init string?

No, many different modem manufacturers use their own set of init string.  Init string may even be different between models by the same manufacturer.

My init string works on one carrier but not the other.

You may need a different init string to connect to each carrier.  In general your init strings will be the same, but not always.

What init string should I use?

There is no easy answer to that question.  In general, if your modem is a 2400 baud model or slower (very old models) you won't need an init string.  These older modems sometimes work best when communicating with the paging terminals.  Anything faster (9600, 14.4, 28.8, 33.6, 56K, etc.), will probably require an init string.  Some of the most common init strings are listed below.  If you have a less well known brand modem, you may need to use the documentation include with you modem to create an init string.

Common Init Strings

AT&FQ0V1X4&D2   - Minimal settings.  Works with most 1200 and 2400 baud modems. Some modems use &F0 rather than &F.  All '0' are zeros not ohs.

AT&FQ0V1X4&D2N0S37=5   - Hard coded baud rate.  Works with many 14.4 and 28.8 modems.  The added codes locks the connection baud rate to 1200 baud.  Use S37=3 for a 300 baud connection, and S37=6 for a 2400 baud connection.  Some modems use &F0 rather than &F.  All '0' are zeros not ohs.

AT&FQ0V1X4&D2N0S37=5\N0%C0   - No compression/error correction.  Works with many 14.4, 28.8 and 33.6 modems.  The added codes turn off data compression and error correction.  You can try using only one of the two additional codes (\N0 or %C0) if you modem rejects using both.  Use S37=3 for a 300 baud connection, and S37=6 for a 2400 baud connection.  Some modems use &F0 rather than &F.  All '0' are zeros not ohs.

AT&F0Q0V1X4&D2&B1&K0&M0&N2   - USRobotics (3Com) string.  Works with most USRobotics/3Com 33.6 and 56K modems (and some others too).  Use &N1 (instead of &N2) for a 300 baud connection, or &N3 for a 2400 baud connection.

Note: all '0' characters in the init strings are zeros not ohs

***More init strings may be available on our web site: www.notepager.net


File Version Problems

The PageGate application is dependent on several Microsoft libraries.  If these support libraries are not up to date or of conflicting versions, PageGate can develop unreliable behavior (these conditions can have negative effects on any applications that access them, not just PageGate).  If your PageGate installation is displaying such behavior, you should use the following information to insure your system files are current.

***IMPORTANT:  These files must be checked on ALL computers that run ANY part of the PageGate application.  This includes workstations that run the NotePager Net client or the Administration program.

Microsoft Jet database engine files:

Make sure each file below is equal to, or greater than the version listed.  To find the version of a file, find the file in the Windows file explorer.  Right-click on the file and choose 'Properties' from the popup menu.  Choose the 'Version' tab from this window.  The first piece of information is the file version.

C:\Program Files\Common Files\Microsoft Shared\Dao\

dao350.dll	3.51.1027.0

C:\Windows\System\  or  C:\Winnt\System32\

msjet35.dll	3.51.3328.0

msjint35.dll	3.51.0623.0

msjter35.dll	3.51.0623.0

msrd2x35.dll	3.51.0623.0

msrepl35.dll	3.51.3225.0

If any of your files are of a lesser version, please download the updated versions from one of our websites:

www.notepager.net/download/msupdt.exe

www.notepager.com/download/msupdt.exe

www.notepage.net/download/msupdt.exe

After downloading the file, execute it to extract the necessary files.  Then, after exiting all running applications, copy the extracted files over the existing files on your system.

Microsoft virtual redirector:

Some version of Windows95 were shipped with a buggy version of the Windows virtual redirector.  Make sure the version you have is equal to, or greater than the version listed.  To find the version of a file, find the file in the Windows file explorer.  Right-click on the file and choose 'Properties' from the popup menu.  Choose the 'Version' tab from this window.  The first piece of information is the file version.

C:\Windows\System\

vredir.vxd	4.00.1116

If your file is of a lesser version, please download the updated version from one of our websites:

www.notepager.net/download/vredrupd.exe

www.notepager.com/download/vredrupd.exe

www.notepage.net/download/vredrupd.exe

After downloading the file, exit out of all running applications.  Then run the downloaded file to update your system.

OLE:

The Microsoft OLE system is used by the Microsoft Jet database engine and by other controls that PageGate uses.  The following updates are for Windows 95 or Windows 98 only.  They will not update systems with Windows NT or 2000.  To be sure that your system is running the latest version of OLE, you can download the following file from one of our websites:

For Windows 95:

www.notepager.net/download/dcom95.exe

www.notepager.com/download/dcom95.exe

www.notepage.net/download/dcom95.exe

For Windows 98:

www.notepager.net/download/dcom98.exe

www.notepager.com/download/dcom98.exe

www.notepage.net/download/dcom98.exe

After downloading the file, exit out of all running applications.  Then run the downloaded file to update your system.

Windows NT:

If you are running PageGate on either a Windows NT server or workstation, be sure to have service pack 5 installed.  It fixes many known problems with Windows NT.


Make sure your modem is operating correctly

Hyperterminal is a terminal emulation program that comes with Windows.  It can be used to test communications with your modem.  You should do this test even if other applications work correctly with your modem.  PageGate talks to your modem by addressing it's serial port.  Other applications may bypass the port settings and work even if your port settings are incorrect.  Hyperterminal can be found under the 'Accessories' option on your Windows start menu.  Depending on the version of Windows you are running, it may be under a group below 'Accessories' called 'Communications'.

If Hyperterminal is not installed, you can install it by choosing 'Add/Remove Programs' from within the Windows control panel.  Choose the tab labeled 'Windows Setup'.  Hyperterminal can be found under the 'Communications' group.

After choosing hyperterminal from accessories, invoke the hyperterminal program by either choosing the 'Hyperterm' icon from the group window, or by choosing 'Hyperterminal' from the next group of programs on the Windows start menu.  If it is the first time you have run hyperterminal, you may be asked to enter your area code.  If so, do it now.  The next screen will ask you for a name for your new connection.  The name is not important.  Use something like 'test'.  Hit 'OK'. On the next screen, among other things, you are asked for what modem to use ('Connect Using').  Do not choose the name of your modem.  Instead, choose the name of the com port you entered into PageGate (i.e. 'Direct to Com 2').  Hit 'OK'.  The next screen will ask you for 'Port Settings'.  Use the settings that were used when the carrier in question was setup in PageGate.  Choose 'None' for flow control.

You should now get a somewhat blank hyperterminal window with a blinking cursor.  If you don't, then your modem or com port settings are incorrect, your hardware is not setup correctly, or some other program is using the modem.  Otherwise, you should now be able to type 'AT <cr>' (don't type the ' symbols, and ,<cr> stands for the carriage return or enter key).  The letters 'AT' may or may not appear on the terminal window.  Don't be alarmed if they don't.  However, in either case, your modem should respond with and 'OK'.  If you don't receive an 'OK' then your serial port or modem is not operating correctly and must be fixed before PageGate can use them.  If you do get an 'OK', then continue to the next step.


Make sure you have a dial tone

If you can hear PageGate pick up the phone and get a dial tone before it dials, skip to the next step.  If you don't currently have hyperterminal running, follow the steps in the above section so that hyperterminal is running and responds with an 'OK' when you type 'AT<cr>'.

Type 'ATDT<cr>'. You should hear a dial tone.  Some modems may have their speakers turned off.  That is ok.  After a little while you should get one of two messages on the hyperterminal screen: 'No Carrier' or 'No Dialtone'.  'No Carrier' is a good response, you have dialtone.  'No Dialtone' … well that one needs no further explanation.


Make sure you are connecting to a modem

Using a regular phone, dial the phone number you entered into PageGate.  Now is a good time to note that many modem lines may have different requirements to get an outside line than a phone system does (i.e. just because you dial a '9' to get an outside line on your phone system, you may not need one on your modem line, or vice versa).  After dialing the number, you should hear it ring and then pickup.  Next you should hear a long high-pitched tone (at least 10 seconds and steady).  If you don't, you have the wrong number for your paging service provider's terminal.  Often times if you are given the wrong number, you will hear a voice message or a beep-beep-beep.


Make sure you are connecting to a paging terminal

If you have gotten this far, you are at least calling a modem.  Next, we have to be sure we can connect to the modem on the other end, and that it is a paging terminal that supports the TAP/IXO protocol.

Follow the steps in the first section so that you are running hyperterminal and are getting an 'OK' response to typing 'AT<cr>'.  Now type 'ATDT<phone number><cr>' where <phone number> should  be replaced with the phone number you entered into the carrier in PageGate.  After the modem dials it should connect to the modem at the other end and you should get a 'CONNECT' message on the hyperterminal screen.  If you can't connect, either the phone number is wrong (there really isn't a paging terminal at the other end) or you need to use an init string to make a connection to it.  You will find some common init strings in the 'Init Strings' section or on our website (www.notepager.net).  To try an init string, simply type it into hyperterminal and hit the enter key.  If the string is accepted, you should get an 'OK' back.  If the string is invalid for your modem, you will get and 'ERROR' response.  After entering a valid init string, try connecting to the carrier again ('ATDT<phone number><cr>').  If hyperterminal can't connect to the carrier, PageGate won't be able to either.

After you receive a 'CONNECT' message, you should receive an 'ID=' message within about five seconds.  If not, try hitting the enter key about every three seconds.  After retrying the carrier a couple of times, if you still don't get and 'ID=' prompt, either you don't have a proper init string, your communications settings are incorrect (baud, data bits, etc.), or you aren't connecting to a paging terminal.  If you do receive the 'ID=' prompt, quit out of hyperterminal, start PageGate, and go to the next step.

Note:  If you used a different init string here to get this far, be sure to update the carrier's init string in PageGate before continuing.


Check the PageGate Dialer Log

In the PageGate Admin program, select the 'Settings' object found underneath the 'Logging' object.  Make sure 'Log to Disk' and 'Detailed Log' are both checked.  Apply your changes.  You can view the dialer's log file by selecting the 'Log' object from under the 'Dialer1' object, which is found under the 'Connectors' object.  Next, send a test message and then review the dialer log.  Here are failure messages for the dialers and their possible causes:

Unable to send dialer init string - the dialer init string was sent to the modem, but not accepted.  Verify the syntax of the init string, or try a new one.

Unable to send carrier init string - the carrier init string was sent to the modem, but not accepted.  Verify the syntax of the init string, or try a new one.

Unable to connect to carrier - the dialer didn't receive a 'CONNECT' message from the modem.  This is usually caused by a wrong phone number, incorrect modem settings, or improper init string.

Checksum error - your message was transmitted to the carrier, but the data received didn't match the data you sent.  This can be caused by a bad connection or improper init string.

Bad message content - your message was received by the carrier without any errors.  However, the carrier rejected the message due to invalid data in it.  This is almost always caused by an incorrect ID/PIN number, or by sending a message that is longer than what the carrier will accept in a single message (try lowering the 'maxchars' setting for the carrier).

Disconnect requested by carrier - this message could mean a number of different things.  It is sometimes simply given because the carrier has a limit to the number of messages it will accept in a single session, and wants you to hang up.  In most other cases, the terminal has detected a condition which prohibits it from continuing to accept messages, and wants to terminate the session.

No response from carrier - somewhere in the middle of transmitting messages, contact was lost with the carrier.  This is usually caused by a bad phone connection, or the need for a better init string.

Message retry limit reached - the message has been retried the number of times specified in the global dialer settings, without being sent successfully.  The message at this point is marked as bad, and not retried again.  Please check the error message previous to this one in the log for causes.

Carrier retry limit reached - This means that a specific carrier has been unable to be reached after being retried for the number of times set in the global dialer settings.  Check the log for failure messages prior to this one for more information on how the connection failed.  This message is usually due to an outage of service at the carrier or a modem/phoneline/hardware failure.  All pending messages currently queued for this carrier are marked as bad, so as not to delay the delivery of message to other carriers that are still accessible.


I receive the error 'Unable to access modem'

This message is given if PageGate is unable to talk to your modem.  Check the port you have set PageGate to use for the dialer in question.  If you have an external modem, make sure it is connected and turned on. There may be another program running on your system that is using the modem. For example, you will get this error if you have a fax program running in the background waiting to receive faxes, or you may have a remote control program such as PCAnywhere running in the background waiting for a call. PageGate requires exclusive use of the modem. For more information, please refer to the section 'Connecting to a carrier' in the 'Troubleshooting' chapter of the PageGate help file.


I receive the message 'Warning unable to access the database'

This message is warning you that one of PageGate's modules has temporarily lost contact with the PageGate database.  If PageGate is running on a real busy computer or network, you may intermittently receive this message.  This can be normal in a busy environment.  PageGate is simply letting you know that it did not get through right away, and it will keep trying.  However, if the module is unable to re-connect to the database, this error will eventually lead to the error 'Program halted. Database error...' (see the information that follows).


I receive the error 'Program halted.  Database error...'

This error is the result of one of two different problems.  Either one of PageGate's modules has lost contact with the PageGate database, or there is some corruption in the PageGate database.  If the PageGate module that reports this error is running on a different computer than where the PageGate database file resides, chances are you have a network connectivity problem (possible an intermittent one).  If the PageGate module that reports this error is running on the same computer as the PageGate database file, there is most likely corruption in the PageGate database.  Corruption is caused by one of the following conditions:

1. Abnormally terminating PageGate

  -  PageGate should ALWAYS be shut down in an orderly manner.  PageGate's administration program and ALL of the running NotePager Net (GUI) clients should be exited before shutting down the computer that PageGate runs on.  Next, each of PageGate's modules should be set to a 'stopped' state (red in PG Monitor).  The PageGate service manager should be stopped by clicking on the pager icon in the Windows system tray and then choosing 'Quit' or 'Stop' from the popup menu.  All of the above should be done before shutting down or restarting the computer that PageGate is running on.  Not following these procedures can in some cases cause database corruption.

  -  All NotePager Net (GUI) client programs should be closed by choosing 'File' and then 'Exit' from their menus, or by clicking on the 'X' control on their windows (Note: when NotePager Net is minimized, it appears as a pager icon in the Windows system tray.  Be sure not to shut down or restart with it still there.).  Not following this procedure can in some cases cause database corruption.

2. Freezing, locking, abnormal shutting down/rebooting, or other hardware failures

  -  If any computer that is running ANY part of PageGate or its GUI client (NotePager Net) freezes, locks up, reboots, shuts down, catches on fire, etc. without using normal shutdown procedures, in some cases can cause corruption in the PageGate database.

3. Operating system errors

  -  If computers running ANY part of PageGate (including the NotePager Net (GUI) client) receive errors such as: 'the blue screen of death', general exception errors, processor exception errors, illegal instruction errors, page fault errors, etc., in some cases the PageGate database can become corrupt.

4. Incorrect or out-of-date database support files

  -  PageGate uses the Microsoft Jet database engine (common with MS Access 97) for data access.  If any of the database engine files are out of date (older versions are buggy), corruption can appear in the PageGate database.  Please refer to the section 'File version problems' in the 'Troubleshooting' chapter of the PageGate help file for more details.

5. Bad or out-of-date operating system files.

  -  If PageGate is running on Windows NT, be sure that the NT Service Pack 5 or later is installed on all computers that run ANY part of PageGate or the NotePager Net (GUI) client.

  -  If PageGate is running on Windows 95 or 98, make sure ALL computers that run ANY part of PageGate or the NotePager Net (GUI) client have the current Windows redirector and OLE files.  In particular, there is a serious problem with the redirector shipped with some versions of Windows 95 that will almost certainly cause database corruption.  Please refer to the section 'File version problems' in the 'Troubleshooting' chapter of the PageGate help file for more details.


When I start the PG Admin program, I get the error 'Error 35602 key is not unique in collection...'

PageGate will never allow two recipients (users) with the same user name.  If you are inserting records directly into the PageGate database by your own means, be sure that you don't allow duplicates.  This is the message you will get if there is one.


I have a US Robotics (3 Com) modem. I have tried the init string but still get inconsistent results.

Some model US Robotics modems have difficulty communicating with the computer at low baud rates (i.e. under 9600 baud). Try setting the baud rate on the carrier setup screen to 19200. Also use the init string given to lock the baud rate between the modems to a lower rate.


I am certain that everything is set correctly, but PageGate won't dial with my modem.

We have seen problems with some of the new faster modems communicating with the computer at lower baud rates. Set the carrier's baud rate 19200 and use a modem initialization string to lock the modem to modem connection speed to 1200 baud.


I have a 56K modem and am unable to connect to the paging carrier.

Many new 56K modems are 'voice' modems, which means that they support features such as speakerphone, voice mail, sound recording, etc.  In order for these features to be supported, the modem locks itself in a high-speed connection mode which can't be over-ridden by using init strings.  To disable the voice capabilities of the modem follow these instructions:

1. From the Windows start menu choose: 'Start' > 'Settings' > 'Control Panel'

2. From the control panel double-click on the icon labeled 'System'.

3. On the 'System Properties' screen click on the tab labeled 'Device Manager'

4. Find the entry called 'Sound, video and game controllers' (if there isn't one,

you don't have a voice modem)

5. Click on the '+' sign next to the entry

6. Select the entry under 'Sound, video and game controllers' called: 'Wave device for voice modem' (if there isn't one there, you don't have a voice modem).

7. Click on the 'Properties' button.

8. The properties screen for the device will appear.  Check the box labeled 'Disable in this hardware profile'.

9. Click 'OK' and then 'OK' again.

10. Restart your computer.


My modem does not hang up after sending a message.

You may need to use an init string (or a different one) with your modem.


My pager keeps receiving garbled messages, why?

Garbled messages are caused by a low battery, poor reception (inside some buildings or in fringe areas), or a defective paging unit.


PageGate says the message was sent, but it is never received on the pager, why?

If PageGate indicates that the message has been sent successfully, it means that the paging terminal has confirmed receipt of the message. If the message is not received, you may be out of your paging coverage area (or in a fringe area), your account may be incorrectly set up by the carrier, or you may have an incorrect ID/PIN number.


When I try to install, I get a "missing runtime DLL" message.

Try clearing out the files in your c:\windows\temp directory and then reinstalling.  If this doesn't help, re-download the product.  The download may not have completed successfully.


When I try to send a message through a web page nothing happens. My server is NT 4.0 and my web server is Microsoft IIS.

Put the webgate.exe (CGI) in inetpubs/scripts directory this is where IIS is expecting to find the CGI programs, and be sure to point the getweb interface to the same directory.


When I try to add an email account a message appears that says it is unable to add the account on Mdaemon.

Confirm the path that you have setup PageGate that points to Mdaemon is correct.


Messages aren't being acknowledged by either the scheduler or the dialers.

The scheduler module and the dialer modules currently only support US date format (mm/dd/yy). Check your date format setting in the control panel under 'Regional Settings' to be sure this is the current format.


PageGate stopped sending messages at the end of the month

The scheduler module and the dialer modules currently only support US date format (mm/dd/yy). Check your date format setting in the control panel under 'Regional Settings' to be sure this is the current format.


I'm using commandline/ascii interface and I am trying to send message from notepad.

The notepad program, always appends a .txt extension to it's files. PageGate requires .asc as the last extension on the file. Rename the file manually.


How does your software treat email messages with graphic encapsulation e.g. attachments, jpg, MIME ?

Only the text portions of the email body are sent to the pager. If the user account set to forward messages to an email account. The full message will be forwarded to that account.


Will PageGate support more than one modem per server ?

PageGate supports up to 16 dialers and direct cable connections.


Will PageGate queue messages on the PageGate server for when dialout lines are busy?

Yes


Can I send the same messages to multiple pagers ?

PageGate v1.4 (and higher) supports groups, which allows groups of pagers to share a single web page.


Can PageGate run as a service on a Window  NT computer?

Yes, PageGate version 3.0 and later will run as a true Windows NT system service.


Will PageGate work with a direct connection to the paging terminal (direct cable connection, no modem) ?

Yes, a direct cable connection can be used in conjunction with other dialers that have modems, to allow pages to be sent externally too.


Can PageGate be modified to adhere to a different paging protocol, that requires a '>' character before inputting text ?

Yes, please provide details to products@notepage.com and a price quote for modifications can be provided.


What operating systems operating systems will PageGate work on?

Although the PageGate engine must run on a Windows 95 or NT system, pages can be sent from DOS, windows 3.x, OS/2, Mac's and even Unix stations, if they are networked to the PageGate system. In addition with the email or web front-ends, pages may be sent from anything that can do email or www.


Can PageGate's modules be run on separate machines?

Yes, each of PageGate's modules may be run on a different system. They must all be networked together.


What mail servers does PageGate work with?

PageGate integrates directly with the Mdaemon mail server. However, the Mdaemon mail server can be used in conjunction with any other mail server. There are three different ways this can be done.

1. Your existing mail server can forward messages that you want sent as pages to the Mdaemon mail server.

2. Email can be sent directly to the Mdaemon mail server and it can forward a copy to a mailbox on another server.

3. The Mdaemon multi-pop feature can be used to poll mailboxes on one or more existing mail servers.


Where can I get support for the Mdaemon mail server?

Technical information for Mdaemon is available at http://www.mdaemon.com or http://www.deerfield.com.


How do I get technical support ?

PageGate technical support is handled through email. If you have a question that is not answered here e-mail tech@notepager.net.


What web servers will PageGate work with?

PageGate will work with any windows based web server.