Last week, we tackled the topic of Internet connections. In that post, I noted that many of our Members found that WebPT works best via a cable connection. That got me thinking: what about browsers, hardware, routers, and all that other tech gear that makes your clinic run?
Apparently, I wasn’t the only one wondering these things. Frequently, our Members ask us what technologies we recommend to optimize WebPT. While our software works great with just about any setup, there are some steps you can take to create the most ideal WebPT experience.
Internet Connection
We recommend Cable or DSL Internet with a connection speed of at least 1 Mbps (megabits per second) upload and 10 Mbps download. If your clinic uses QuickScan and/or eDoc, you’ll benefit from a faster upload speed.
Wireless Routers
Pretty much any current wireless router will work great with WebPT. However, many therapists have said that the Linksys E3000 and Asus RT-N16 router models work well. Just make sure that the quality of your router is in in proportion to your clinic’s router workload; (the more Internet users, the better the router you’ll need).
PC Hardware and Software
Are you a PC? If so, we recommend running Windows 7 Home Premium, Professional, or Ultimate with at least 4 GB of RAM, 500 GB Hard Drive, and a 20” Monitor—anything less than 20″ and your eyes may plot your demise while you sleep.
As for a web browser, your WebPT experience will be most excellent with Firefox version 3.6 or later, Google Chrome 13 or later, or Internet Explorer 9 or later. For your computer’s anti-virus software, we vote Microsoft Security Essentials, which is available as a free download from Microsoft.
Macintosh Hardware and Software
If you’re a Mac, use any current model, except the MacBook Air, and you’ll meet our recommended requirements of 4 GB RAM and 500 GB disk space. For your operating system, we suggest OS X 10.5 Snow Leopard or later.
On Macs, WebPT performs best with Firefox version 5 or later or Google Chrome 13 or later.
iPad
We recommend the 32 GB iPad 2 or better as well as the standard Wi-Fi connection on all iPad 2 models. We don’t currently recommend using the iPad 3G network connection.
Android Tablets
Unfortunately, the Motorola Xoom, Samsung Galaxy Tab, Amazon Kindle Fire, and the Barnes & Noble’s Nook Color and Tablet do not offer an ideal user experience with WebPT. The good news is that Android tablets are constantly improving and we’re always evaluating (and reevaluating) technology; so hopefully, these tablets can join the WebPT party soon.
There you have it: the ideal WebPT setup.
If you don’t have all these recommendations, no worries. As I said before, WebPT works well with just about any setup. But if you’re considering investing in a new computer or iPad for your clinic (or are looking to collect my blog posts like Pokemon cards), definitely keep these recommendations handy.
