About Maitre'D

Maitre'D is a Point Of Sale Software Suite with an integrated Back-Office application that allows restaurants to manage their operations from front-end sales to inventory control and employee management. Maitre'D helps restaurant owners and managers streamline and centralize operations, track the status of the restaurant in real time, analyze data and follow trends from past periods, and plan for the future. The following points highlight key features that make Maitre'D an indispensable tool for any restaurant.

Easy to use customizable screens

The Maitre'D Point Of Sale workstation screens provide an elegant yet intelligent user interface that simplifies order entry and management functions. This means that customers are serviced more quickly, and it is easier to train new employees on the system. Using the Maitre'D POS Screen Designer, the user interface of each workstation can be completely customized to suit the look and needs of any restaurant.

Centralized Management Functions

The Maitre'D Back-Office allows restaurants to manage everything from one central location. Every task from managing inventory to managing employees and time schedules can be done using the Maitre'D Back-Office Suite. By centralizing management functions, the restaurant owner or manager can access real time information about the restaurant and make timely decisions when required. All common management functions can also be accessed using any Point Of Sale workstation connected to the network.

Support for a Wide Range of Peripheral Devices

Maitre'D supports a wide range of industry standard peripheral devices such as scales, biometric reading devices, scanners and more. By fully supporting OLE for Retail POS (OPOS) Drivers, Maitre'D is compatible with all major peripheral devices in the industry that can be connected using a serial, parallel, USB or an IP connection.

Wireless and Handheld Support

Supporting the latest wireless network technologies, wireless Maitre'D networks eliminate the need to hide connection wires that may otherwise be difficult to conceal in a restaurant environment. Maitre'D allows restaurants to mix and match traditional wire based networks with wireless networks allowing heterogeneous networks to seamlessly integrate with each other.

With wireless handheld support, wireless Point Of Sale devices can be connected to the main network, offering mobility to restaurant staff.Wireless scanning devices can scan inventory items and directly input the data in the Maitre'D inventory database making inventory counting a breeze.

Real Time Inventory Management

Using the Inventory Management module, all items in the inventory can be monitored in real time. This allows the restaurant to control food cost, reduce waste items and generate up to date inventory reports. The Inventory Management module also features an advanced Purchase Order Management system that facilitates ordering.

Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) and Drive Thru Functions

Designed for quick but effective operation, the QSR and Drive-Thru functions include customizable macros that allow restaurants to program a sequence of order events for quick processing, and a new combo engine for automatic combo discount detection. The Maitre'D Software Suite supports multiple drive-thru lanes, as well as a kitchen monitor for order efficiency.

Delivery and Dispatch Module

The Delivery module allows orders to be quickly taken over the phone and entered in the Maitre'D system. Orders are forwarded automatically to the kitchen and checks can quickly be printed. When the customer information is keyed in, the system stores it for future orders thereby generating a database of customers. The Delivery module manages drivers by optimizing their routes, and provides an interface with Microsoft® MapPoint®.

Floor Management

The Floor Management module is an easy to use graphical interface that uses a graphical representation of the restaurant allowing customers to be seated quickly and the restaurant seating space to be used optimally. The purpose of the Floor Management Module is to distribute guests evenly among servers so that every server is occupied during all periods. Real time alerts warn restaurant employees if customers are waiting to be served, or are waiting to pay, and managers can keep track of service levels using the Floor Management application.

Restaurants can create multiple floor plans based on the number of servers working at different times of the day. For example, a floor plan with three servers can be created for lunch, and a floor plan with 7 servers can be created for dinner.

One of the powerful features of the Floor Management module is the waiting list. The waiting list is enabled when all tables in the restaurant are occupied, and allow hostesses and servers to keep track of guests waiting for a table. Using the waiting list, guests can order drinks at the bar, and the bartender can start a tab using the guest information found on the waiting list. When a table is ready and the guests are seated, the running tab can be transferred directly to the table and guests only pay at the end of their meal.

The Floor Management module also offers a set of reports that can be customized, and help analyze employee performance.

Redundancy and Security

A redundant server can be configured to insure that in case of primary server failure, the redundant server will take over and allow uninterrupted service. For convenience, one of the Point of Sale workstations can be configured to act as a redundant server, saving costs because the restaurant does not need to invest in a separate computer to host the redundant server. A convenient Restore function allows the redundant server to transfer control back to the primary server as well as any updated data.

Table Service Restaurant (TSR)

Loaded with features such as Hold and Fire, customizable meals,“On the fly”modifiers, and instructions for special orders, the Maitre'D Table Service Restaurant (TSR) solution allows servers to offer the highest level of table service to customers and provide them with an exceptional dining experience.

With built-in support for both a central cashier configuration and a server banking configuration, Maitre'D TSR can adapt to any restaurant business model.

Employee and Payroll Management

Employees can be managed using the Maitre'D Back-Office. Employees can clock-in and clock-out directly from any Point of Sale workstation thereby eliminating the need for an expensive third party time tracking hardware. Maitre'D also provides a graphical view of the employee schedule and instantly provides a list of availabilities. Using the payroll interface, payroll data can be transferred to an accounting software system such as Automatic Data Processing (ADP) ®.

Maitre'D also provides an analysis of labor costs versus revenue in real time so that managers can determine if they are over-staffed or under-staffed at any given time. This feature allows restaurants to control labor costs while ensuring that customers are receiving the best service.

Integrated Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)

A fully integrated electronic funds transfer (EFT) module allows Point of Sale transactions information to be sent to debit and credit card processors, speeding up transaction processing time. This ensures accuracy throughout the transaction by limiting keypunch errors.

If you are using a generic EFT interface, Maitre'D is compatible with a wide variety of industry standard processors. Internet Processing support allows credit card transactions to be completed within 2 or 3 seconds through a completely secure Internet channel.

Customizable Reporting Features

The Maitre'D Report Center provides a comprehensive set of reports that can be customized to answer the specific needs of any restaurant. Built using the industry standard Crystal Reports ® reporting tools, Maitre'D reports are easy to use, easy to customize and packed with features. Furthermore, as new optional modules are installed, new reports become available in the report center.

Accounting Interfaces and Modules

The accounting modules allow restaurants to manage accounts receivable and print invoices and monthly reports, as well as manage their accounts payable and general ledger. The accounting interfaces allow data to be transferred to almost every major accounting software such as ACCPAC® and QuickBooks™.

Web-based Reporting and Real Time Alerts using DataBoard®

With Maitre'D Databoard®, restaurants can send data to a central website that can be accessed over the Internet. Restaurants can publish reports from Maitre'D to an Internet website, and service packs can be deployed from one central location. Maitre'D Databoard® can be set up to send real time alerts to devices such as pagers, cell phones, or a customized email can be sent to a list of recipients. Encrypted transmissions over a secure Internet channel to transmit information and enforced password protection ensure that all communication between the user and the central website are safe and reliable.

Centralized Database Management using Maitre'D e-Global and Broadcasting

The Maitre'D e-Global Suite allows incremental database information from all restaurants to be sent to a corporate office location for backup and storage on a daily basis. Another powerful feature of Maitre'D e-Global is Broadcasting. This allows the corporate office to push database information, such as new screens or item prices, directly from the corporate office to the individual restaurants. The corporate office system can be programmed to send the data on specific dates thereby automating all updates.

Cooking Schedule Management

The Maitre'D cooking schedule organizes the schedule for items on the menu that take time to prepare and ensures that items advertised on the restaurant menu are always available. Based on past sales, the cooking schedule determines the quantity of an item to prepare for any given time period.

Real time display warns employees when item levels are low, and the cooking schedule constantly updates itself in real time to display the quantity remaining.

Purchase Order Management

Using the Maitre'D Inventory Management module, purchase orders can be generated and tracked. When items in the purchase order are received in Maitre'D, the system automatically updates the inventory levels. Maitre'D offers a versatile purchase order system with a powerful wizard function that uses past sales history and future projections to determine what items to order and the quantities to order. Based on the Product Mix formula, the purchase order wizard can generate purchase orders based on minimum and maximum inventory levels, based on the production schedule, or based on sales history. Other features such as copying from a previous purchase order and setting up recurrent purchase orders simplify the ordering process.

Purchase order information can be exported through the Maitre'D Accounts Payable Interface to a 3rd party accounts payable software for processing.

Message Center

Restaurant managers can send customized messages to specific employees or a group of employees using the Maitre'D Message Center. The message will display the first time the employee logs in, enters a sales transaction, clocks or accesses other employee functions. The manager can attach an employee schedule with the message, and the employee can print the message as well as the attached schedule.

Frequent Diner and Rewards

Loyal customers can be rewarded using the Frequent Diner feature. A database of Frequent Diner Customers is stored in the Maitre'D database, and Frequent Diner Promotions can be offered to these customers. The Frequent Diner Customer database information can be distributed to multiple locations so that Frequent Diners can receive their perks in every restaurant belonging to that chain.

Restaurants can also offer Rewards Coupons to guests when their purchases reach a certain amount. The coupons print automatically when the check is acquitted and restaurants can configure Maitre'D to print different promotions at different times of the day and of the week. For example, when guests purchase sales items that equal 15$ or more at breakfast time, the restaurant can give a Rewards Coupon for a free medium sized French fries when they buy a cheeseburger at lunch time. Similarly, if guests purchase for 15$ or over at lunchtime, they will receive a Rewards Coupon for a free beer during happy hour. The Rewards system is a great way to encourage guests to return to the restaurant.

Front Desk Hotel Interface

The Maitre'D system provides full integration with major hotel Front Desk systems allowing Maitre'D transactions to be posted directly on hotel bills for customers residing in the hotel.

MealZone

Maitre'D MealZone is a web-based application that allows restaurants to offer their menus online for customers wishing to order their meals using the Internet.

The Maitre'D MealZone is linked to the Maitre'D Point of Sale via the Back-Office. Orders that are placed using the restaurant website can be sent directly to the kitchen printer so that they are processed immediately. Customers receive an email to confirm that their order was placed, and also an email to let them know when their order is ready. With Maitre'D MealZone, there is no need for manual entry thereby eliminating the risk of making mistakes and saving valuable time and resources.

Multi-Language Support

With built-in multi-language support, Maitre'D is designed to function in English, French and in Spanish. The system can also be configured to use one language when an employee accesses a Point Of Sale workstation and another language when the customer check is printed. For example, the POS workstations can display the information in Spanish when a server is entering an order, but the customer's check will print in English.

The Maitre'D Open Architecture allows for other ISO 8859-1 (LATIN 1) languages to be configured using an XML file. For example, an XML file can be created to support German, Danish or Italian, and easily incorporated into Maitre'D.

Optional hardware components and manufacturers

Below is a list of optional hardware components and manufacturers supported by Maitre'D.

Magnetic Card Reader

• USB

• Keyboard wedge

• RS-232 (serial)

• OPOS

Customer Display

• AEDEX

• Epson ESC/POS compatible

• Mintronix

• Tekvision

• OPOS

Scale

• Toledo 8213, 8217

• Weigh-Tronix 6710

Cash Drawer

• RS-232 (serial) with or without status

• Through a parallel or serial printer

• OPOS

Kitchen Monitor

• KDS Kitchen Display System from PayFacto

• QSR ePIC (QSR Automation)

Barcode Scanner

• USB

• Keyboard wedge

• RS-232 (serial)

Fingerprint Recognition (biometric devices)

• Digital Persona U.are.U 2000, 2000b and 2400b

Cash Card Reader

• ITC System 1015 or 2015

Fiscal Printer

• Epson TMu200AF for Venezuela

• Québec Sales Recording Module (SRM) – Module d’Enregistrement des Ventes (MEV)

• Belgium Black Box

Surveillance Camera

• Kodicom I3DVR

• Generic XML interface

Bar Dispenser

• Azbar

• Berg

• Auper

• Scanabar

Remote Display

• Texas Digital Accuview

• Delphi Display Systems

EMV Credit/Debit Payment Devices

• See the documentation specific to your processor of choice for detailed lists of supported EMV Credit/Debit Payment Devices.

Performance indicators

Here are a few performance indicators we can use to measure the performance:

CPU Benchmark Score

This is the score of the CPU posted on https://www.cpubenchmark.net/. Note that the posted scores are averages and may vary daily. Higher is better.

Minimum Keystroke Delay

This is the minimum time, in milliseconds, that the user needs to wait between keystrokes to avoid visible lag and missed keystrokes. Lower is better.

Methodology

This value is measured in a lab environment using a tool built into the POS software.

The input keystrokes and the POS' output are compared, and the delay is shortened until one of two things happen:

1. The POS starts "missing" keystrokes. (i.e. a key is pressed but the POS fails to register it), or;

2. There is visible lag, meaning there is a significant and clearly visible delay between the keystroke and the information appearing on the screen.

The delay between keystrokes is then increased gradually until the POS can reliably process all keystrokes without missing one and without creating significant lag, for a period of at least one full minute.

Maximum keys / second

This is the maximum theoretical number of keystrokes per second that a user can achieve without causing the POS to lag. Higher is better.

Methodology

This value is calculated from the minimum keystroke delay. For example, with a minimum keystroke delay of 100 milliseconds, we can have a theoretical maximum of 10 keystrokes per second.

Maximum keys / minute

This is the maximum theoretical number of keystrokes per minute that a user can achieve without causing the POS to lag. Higher is better.

Methodology

This figure is obtained by multiplying Max Keys / Second by 60. This figure is used to put the keystroke delay and keys per second values in perspective. Knowing that an average typist can do between 190 and 200 keystrokes per minute on a keyboard, while a "two-finger" typist does 150 to 160, this figure makes it easy to determine if the POS hardware will be able to keep up with the employees using it.

Copyright & Legal Information

World rights reserved. No part of this publication may be stored in a retrieval system, transmitted, or reproduced in any way, including but not limited to photocopy, photograph, magnetic, or other record, without the prior agreement and written permission of PayFacto Inc.

Trademarks

Maitre'D, the Maitre'D logo, e-Global, Databoard® and MealZone® are trademarks or registered trademarks of PayFacto Inc. in Canada and other countries and may not be used without written permission from PayFacto Inc. Windows is a trademark or a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. PayFacto is not associated with any product or vendor mentioned in this document.

PayFacto Inc has made every effort to prepare this document, and the content is based upon the release of Maitre'D 7.08. Portions of the manuscript may be based upon pre-release versions supplied by software manufacturer(s). PayFacto Inc. makes no representation or warranties of any kind with regard to the completeness or accuracy of the contents herein and accepts no liability of any kind caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly from this document.

For general information on Maitre'D and other products and services from PayFacto Inc, please visit our website at https://payfacto.com.

Audience

The Maitre'D Online User Manual is intended primarily for restaurant owners and managers, but it is equally suited for corporate IT departments, Maitre'D resellers and restaurant employees. This manual provides general information on the use of the Maitre'D Software Suite and introduces the reader to the many features of Maitre'D. It can be used by first time users to familiarize themselves with the Maitre'D Software Suite, or by seasoned users who want to learn more on how to apply the powerful features of Maitre'D to streamline their restaurant business.

Conventions

The following symbols are used throughout this manual to highlight a special section and to introduce the reader to new features in Maitre'D.

Sample Restaurant Database

The Maitre'D Installation DVD and downloaded files contains a sample database that can be installed with Maitre'D during installation. This database contains the necessary pre-configured information to have a Maitre'D system up and running such as employees, items and preferential screens. The sample database contains fictitious sales data that is installed for demo purposes only, and should not be installed in a live environment.

Examples used to illustrate topics in this manual are based on the data and configuration found in this sample database. It is important to note that most restaurant businesses will be configured differently, depending on their needs and the options they have selected. The examples presented in this manual are nevertheless easy to understand and can be transposed to most situations.

Using the Help Menu

Help Topics

Maitre'D has a built-in context sensitive help feature that users can refer to when they need to find out more about a specific function or feature. Many Maitre'D Back-Office windows have a small question mark box on the top right hand corner of the screen. This question mark can be dragged and dropped on any element in a screen. If a help topic associated with this component exists, then a window will appear and the help information will be displayed to the user.

To display the entire help file, the Help Topics option is selected in the Help menu of any of the Back-Office applications.

Maitre'D Online

For further information, consult the Maitre'D website at https://PayFacto.com or contact an authorized Maitre'D reseller for support.

Prepare Maitre’D Back-Office Server PC

Prior to installing Maitre’D, the computer’s hard drive must be properly formatted and partitioned, and a compatible version of Microsoft Windows® needs to be installed. For instruction on formatting and partitioning the hard disk and installing Microsoft Windows®, please refer to Microsoft Windows® documentation or to the documentation provided by your computer's manufacturer.

This manual explains the installation for the Maitre’D software on the Microsoft Windows 10 operating system with Microsoft Network. Maitre’D can be installed on any networking system that uses or emulates the TCP/IP communication protocol. Please refer to the appropriate documentation for more information.

Install all available Windows Updates for your operating system

Your operating system needs to be kept up-to-date with all the latest updates. This will ensure that all critical and security-related updates are installed and will help maintain PCI-DSS compliance.

Enable Windows User Account Control (UAC)

Most recent Windows operating systems use a feature called User Account Control or UAC . This feature exists to improve the operating system's security by preventing some types of applications to run without the user's knowledge. Make sure that this feature is activated and set to the default (recommended) level before installing Maitre’D. Using UAC is required to maintain PCI-DSS compliance and to ensure basic safety of the system.

Enable Windows Smart Screen

Starting with Windows 10, Windows Smart Screen is an integral part of the operating system. This feature is active by default and needs to remain active in order to ensure basic safety of the system and maintain PCI-DSS compliance.

Anti-Virus / Anti-Malware

Install a reputable anti-virus and anti-malware solution on the PC. The Anti-Virus / Anti-Malware solution needs to be fully operational at all times and maintained with the latest updates and virus definitions. It needs to be installed on the main Back-Office PC as well as all POS workstations, Auxiliary Back-Office and Backup Servers. PayFacto does not recommend any brand in particular. However, while Microsoft's Windows Defender solution is free, bundled with Windows and works in most cases, we do recommend using a reputable, independently branded and well reviewed product.

This is a critical component of the Maitre’D system’s security and a requirement for PCI-DSS compliance.

Firewall

In addition to the perimeter firewall which protects your network, a software firewall needs to be installed on the main Back-Office PC as well as all POS workstations, Auxiliary Back-Office and Backup Servers. The Windows Defender Firewall is adequate for most installations.

This is a critical component of the Maitre’D system’s security and a requirement for PCI-DSS compliance.

POS Workstations

POS Workstations are generally pre-configured with an appropriate version of Microsoft Windows. Like the Maitre’D Back-Office Server PC, make sure to:

• Install all Windows Updates.

• Ensure that UAC is enabled and set to the default level.

• Ensure that Windows Smart Screen is enabled.

• Install, update and maintain a reputable anti-virus / anti-malware solution.

• Install, update and maintain a reputable software firewall.

TCP/IP network

Make sure that the TCP/IP network is properly configured so that the Maitre’D Back-Office Server PC and all POS workstations can communicate with each other.

Evaluating Hardware

With modern computer hardware, the speed of the CPU (in Mhz or Ghz) and the core count alone are no longer enough to determine if a given system will perform adequately. There are many more factors to consider, such as the architecture of the CPU, its generation, the technology it is based on, its power consumption, the amount of RAM available, etc.

Benchmarks

The only way to reliably compare CPU’s is by looking at their respective benchmark results. Synthetic benchmark tests compound all CPU attributes into a single numeric score value. Quite simply put, the higher the score, the better the CPU is.

CPUBenchmark.net

PassMark Software’s CPU benchmark is a highly regarded database that contains all the information required to compare millions of different CPU models. The database can be consulted here:

By searching this database and using the provided “Compare” tool, it is easy to determine if the hardware that you plan to buy (or already have) will meet or surpass the performance of the recommended hardware configuration.

Hardware Requirements

To facilitate reading and interpretation of hardware requirements, they are broken down in 3 tiers:

Minimum

The minimum requirement is the bare minimum that will allow the Maitre'D Advanced POS User Interface to operate adequately, without any consideration for possible expansion or "future-proofing".

Recommended

The recommended hardware configuration should yield adequate performance in most situations and provide headroom for future expansion of the system.

Large Sites / High Volume

The hardware configuration for large sites should yield adequate performance in restaurants using 20 or more POS workstations. This requirement also applies to restaurants with high volume of orders, where the number of POS workstations may not be as high as 20, but where the POS Workstations are in near-constant use.

Hardware Requirements for the Maitre'D Back-Office PC, Auxiliary Back-Office and Backup Server

Hardware Requirements for the Legacy POS

Hardware Requirements for the Advanced POS User Interface (HTML POS)

Hardware Requirements for Android Tablets running the Maitre'D Mobile POS app (MPOS)

Hardware Requirements for Apple iPad Tablets running the Maitre'D Mobile POS app (MPOS)

Hardware Requirements for Windows 11

In some cases, Windows 11 may have more stringent hardware requirements than Maitre'D. If you wish to use your POS system with Windows 11, these requirements need to be accounted for:

Additional Information

This topic also includes

Software Requirements

Software requirements are applications, drivers or libraries which may not be included with the operating system by default.

Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 or later

Microsoft .NET framework 3.5 is included with the Maitre'D installation program. It will be installed automatically if the Install Shield Wizard does not detect it on your system.

Microsoft Windows Installer 4.5 or later

Windows 10 already has a more recent version of Windows Installer, but version 4.5 is still supplied with the Maitre'D installation program in case there is a need to install Maitre'D on an earlier operating system which could have an earlier version of Windows Installer.

Java for Windows (formerly Java Runtime Environment (JRE))

While it is optional for Maitre'D itself, Java for Windows is required with some Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) payment solutions like SecureTable and SecurePay. This is also often required by third-party vendors for specific applications. This component needs to be downloaded and installed manually from the Java website.

It can be downloaded and installed from here:

Microsoft Internet Explorer 11 or later

For operating systems prior to Windows 10, this would be supplied through Windows Updates. Since Windows 10, Internet Explorer is bundled with the operating system. It does not need to be the default browser.

All available Windows Updates for your operating system

Your operating system needs to be kept up-to-date with all the latest updates. This will ensure that all critical and security-related updates are installed and will help maintain PCI-DSS compliance.

Anti-Virus / Anti-Malware

Install a reputable anti-virus and anti-malware solution on the PC. The Anti-Virus / Anti-Malware solution needs to be fully operational at all times and maintained with the latest updates and virus definitions. PayFacto does not recommend any brand in particular. However, while Microsoft's Windows Defender solution is free, bundled with Windows and works in most cases, we do recommend using a reputable, independently branded and well reviewed product.

This is a critical component of the Maitre’D system’s security and a requirement for PCI-DSS compliance.

Firewall

In addition to the perimeter firewall which protects your network, a software firewall needs to be installed on the main Back-Office PC as well as all POS workstations. The Windows Defender Firewall is adequate for most installations.

This is a critical component of the Maitre’D system’s security and a requirement for PCI-DSS compliance.

End-of-Life products

Once a Microsoft operating system (OS) reaches the end of support, customers will no longer receive security updates. The OS may still work with programs and hardware after the sale or support of the operating system has been discontinued. However, the possibility increases that new programs and hardware will not be performant on an older OS. This frequently occurs because the manufacturers of new hardware and software make product-design decisions that take advantage of the increased functionality and features in newer operating systems. These manufacturers may decide to discontinue support of their products on older operating systems as appropriate.

For Maitre'D, this means that the POS system will continue to work after the end of support. However, as updates and features are added to Maitre'D after EOL, the possibility increases that new Maitre'D releases become incompatible with older operating systems. Furthermore, deprecated operating systems represent a liability which may compromise the entire POS system's security.

For more information, please see:

End-of-Life products vs. PCI-DSS

Any system using an unsupported or deprecated operating system automatically falls out of PCI-DSS compliance due to the inability of such systems to meet PCI-DSS Requirement 6.2.

PCI-DSS Requirement 6.2 states:

Unsupported products

Some operating systems are not supported by PayFacto even though they are still supported by Microsoft. These can be divided in two categories:

Failed products

Some operating systems never received wide market adoption, such that PayFacto never deemed necessary or profitable to perform any kind of testing on these products. While these operating systems may work with Maitre'D, PayFacto cannot provide any form of guarantee to that effect, as they were never tested. Such products include Microsoft Windows Vista (which is now also EOL) and Microsoft Windows 8 / 8.1.

Consumer products

Microsoft publishes a wide array of Windows editions targeted for home users, educational versions for schools and other specialized versions for niche users. These versions of windows are not supported due to the lack of certain key features, or because of the Microsoft End-User License Agreement (EULA), which may not cover commercial or industrial use cases.

Full list of Unsupported and End-of-Life Operating Systems

Operating System Requirements

Maitre'D is designed for the Microsoft Windows environment and will operate on both 32-bit (x86) and 64-bit (x64) editions of current Windows operating systems. This makes Maitre'D "hardware-agnostic", which means it will work on any hardware that can run Microsoft Windows, as long as it meets the minimum performance requirements.

The table below lists all currently supported operating systems with their projected End-of-Life date issued by Microsoft.

Desktop Operating Systems

Patch levels for Desktop Operating Systems

In addition to the general End-of-Life date issued for Desktop operating systems, Microsoft also issues End-of-Life dates for specific patch levels. This is done by Microsoft to ensure that users keep their operating systems up-to-date.

Server-oriented Operating Systems

• While a POS, Backup Server or Auxiliary Back-Office would work perfectly on a server-oriented operating system, PayFacto does not recommend doing so, unless your operations specifically requires this.

Embedded and "Internet of Things" (IoT) Operating Systems

Enterprise Operating Systems

* Microsoft lists this date as the end of "Mainstream support" for this Windows version. Mainstream support is typically followed by an extended support period, however it is not listed on the Microsoft Lifecycle site at this time.

Windows 11

Microsoft Windows 11 is the latest release of the Windows family of operating systems. It was released on October 5th, 2021. A full test suite has been run on PayFacto's POS products to ensure compatibility.

Windows 11 vs. Microsoft lifecycle

At this time, Microsoft has not issued official end-of-life (EOL) dates for the Windows 11 family of products. The only EOL dates available so far are for patch levels. These dates will be updated when Microsoft releases new feature updates for Windows 11.

Sample hardware configurations

Multiple hardware configurations were tested in a controlled lab environment during the development of the HTML POS. These can be used as benchmarks to compare the hardware you already have or plan to buy.

System #1: Minimum

The first system tested is an All-in-One POS with the lowest hardware specification that was tested in our labs. It is also the oldest, with a manufacture date of late 2008. Still, even at this age, the hardware is slightly above the minimum requirements for the Maitre'D Legacy POS.

System #1 Conclusion

This system is not adequate for HTML POS, however it works just fine with the Maitre'D Legacy POS. If you have older hardware available which can be upgraded to Windows 10 IoT Enterprise, it can still be put to good use for a budget POS system using the Legacy POS software.

System #2: Tablet PC

This system is a Windows 10 Tablet PC, optimized for long battery life.

System #2 Conclusion

While HTML POS was usable on this system, it was a bit on the slow side. However, this is a very good wireless solution for the Legacy Maitre'D POS.

System #3: NUC form factor PC

This system is a Windows 10 NUC form factor PC with a very small footprint. The enclosure of this device measures only 5 in x 5 in, with a thickness if about 1.25 in.

System #3 Conclusion

While HTML POS was also usable on this system, the performance gain from the slightly better CPU was marginal and could not be measured. This is a very good solution for the Legacy Maitre'D POS if you need a low cost and space-efficient solution.

System #4: POS hardware

This system is an All-in-One Windows 10 POS workstation.

System #4 Conclusion

While HTML POS was also usable on this system, the performance gain from the slightly better CPU was marginal and could not be measured. This hardware is more than adequate for the Maitre'D Legacy POS, however.

System #5: High-End POS hardware

This system is a high-end, All-in-One Windows 10 POS workstation.

System #5 Conclusion

The Core i3 desktop CPU and 8Gb of RAM made all the difference with this system, doubling the HTML POS performance compared to previous systems tested. At 400 keystrokes per minute, this system now surpasses the capacity of even the most experienced typists.

System #6: Old Desktop PC

This system is a standard desktop PC manufactured in 2011, which was upgraded to Windows 10.

System #6 Conclusion

While a full-sized desktop computer does not necessarily make sense to use as a POS, this hardware was included here as a point of comparison, and to show that old hardware can still be used very efficiently. Also, similar hardware is available in Small Form Factor (SFF), which has a much smaller footprint.

System #7: High-End Desktop PC

This system is a high-end, Small Form Factor (SFF) desktop PC, running Windows 10 pro and manufactured in 2018.

System #7 Conclusion

A SFF PC such as this one has a relatively small footprint. Coupled with a touch screen, this could effectively run the entire Maitre'D Back-Office suite along with HTML POS as a local workstation without any noticeable drop in performance.

Start the Installation from a DVD (or downloaded DVD files)

Originally, the Maitre'D installer was shipped on a physical DVD. Being fully aware that many recent laptops and even full-sized desktop computers are no longer shipped with optical drives, and also to reduce e-waste and shipping costs, the files are available for download from the Maitre'D Distributor Portal.

Please see:

Download Maitre'D Setup Files

To start the Maitre’D Advanced Restaurant Suite Setup:

Physical DVD ROM:

1. Insert the DVD in the DVD-ROM drive.

2. The disk should auto-play.

If AutoPlay doesn't start:

1. Use File Explorer to browse your DVD-ROM drive.

2. Double-click Autorun.exe.

Downloaded DVD files:

1. Copy all the DVD files to the root of a removable media, such as a USB thumb drive.

2. Use File Explorer to browse the removable media.

3. Double-click Autorun.exe.

Maitre'D Advanced Restaurant Suite Setup

As the Autorun tool starts, you may see a Windows User Account Control (UAC) message. Click Yes.

The first installer screen will be displayed:

Run Demo Tour

Select the option to take a tour of Maitre'D.

Install Back-Office and Point of Sale

Select this option to install the Maitre'D Back-Office Server, Backup Server, Auxiliary Server or Point of Sale software. This will open another menu page with all necessary installation options.

Install Maitre'D e-Global and DataBoard

Select this option to install the Maitre'D e-Global solution. This will open another menu page with all necessary installation options.

Contacts

Select this option to view contact information.

Exit

Select this option to exit from the installer.

Install Back-Office and Point of Sale sub-menu

Install Main Back-Office

Select this option to install the Maitre'D Main Back-Office server software.

The Maitre'D Back-Office needs to be installed prior to any other Maitre'D application. After a successful installation, you will be able to proceed with the installation of the Point of Sale application, and any other software required, such as the Auxiliary Back-Office or Backup Server.

Install Auxiliary Back-Office

Select this option to install a Maitre'D Auxiliary Back-Office.

Install this program if you want access to the Maitre'D Back-Office software, with multi-user capability, from any other computer on the Maitre'D network. This program needs to be installed on each computer that you want to access the Back-Office from.

Install Backup Server

Select this option to install a Maitre'D Backup Server.

The Backup Server will provide additional security to your network by including full redundancy of the Maitre'D Back-Office software on any Point of Sale workstation or any other computer in your network.

Install Windows Point of Sale

Select this option to install the Maitre'D Point of Sale software on a workstation.

The Maitre'D Point of Sale provides you with every function needed in the restaurant industry. Table management, QSR, Delivery, Take-out, Drive-Thru and more. The Point of Sale software can be installed on a wide variety of hardware and supports several devices such as: Printers, scanners, scales, coin dispensers, liquor control systems, etc.

Back

Select this option to return to the previous screen.

To start the installation of the Maitre'D Back-Office, select the first option: Install Main Back-Office. This will launch the Maitre'D Back-Office InstallShield Wizard.

Install Maitre'D e-Global and DataBoard sub-menu

Install Maitre'D e-Global Solution

Select this option to install the Maitre'D e-Global Solution.

The Maitre'D e-Global corporate solution is a powerful package developed to bring increased efficiency to multi-unit food service corporations. It allows them to receive data from all units at the frequency they desire. e-Global also allows them to manage each unit's database remotely, providing more control over menus, promotions and prices.

Install Maitre'D DataBoard WEB Server

Do not use this option, as this version of DataBoard is now obsolete.

Maitre'D Back-Office License Activation

Before activating the license

Before the license can be activated, you need:

License Serial Number

The Maitre’D license serial number can be obtained by ordering a Maitre’D license through our ordering system, by phone or by e-mail.

Commerce Name

Obtain the commerce name from the restaurant owner or manager. The commerce name is limited to 20 characters, including spaces.

When a new license is activated for the first time, you will be given the opportunity to configure the commerce name as it will appear in the Maitre’D Back-Office, on report headers and on the header of printed guest checks, invoices and receipts.

License activation process

With the license serial number and commerce name in hand, you can proceed with the license activation.

1. After restarting from the installation of the Maitre’D Back-Office, Auxiliary or Backup Server software, the Maitre’D License Activation prompt will automatically appear.

1. Enter the required information:

a. Type in the license Serial Number as it appears on your Maitre’D invoice.

b. Type in the Commerce Name as it should appear in the Maitre’D Back-Office, on report headers and on the header of printed guest checks, invoices and receipts.

c. Click Next >> to continue the process.

1. The Site Code will be generated. Select it and copy it to the clipboard.

1. Logon to the Maitre'D Distributor Portal:

1. Select your language.

2. Enter your username and password, then click the Login button.

3. Click the License Activation link, near the top of the page.

1. Type in the license serial number and click the Submit button.

1. Locate the activation record for your license and click the Activate link.

1. If this is the very first activation of this license, you will be allowed to type in the Restaurant Name (commerce name). This name is case sensitive. Otherwise, the restaurant name will be filled in for you and cannot be modified.

2. Paste in the Site Code copied earlier.

3. Click the Generate button.

1. Your Activation Code (key code) will be generated. Select it and copy it to the clipboard.

1. Paste the key code (activation code) in the Key Code field and click Next >> to continue.

1. A confirmation prompt will appear, stating that the computer needs to be restarted.

2. Click Yes to restart your computer.

1. After restarting, the Maitre’D Back-Office Server will attempt to start itself. You may see various progress bars as the Maitre'D database is updated.

1. If the Maitre’D Back-Office Server is not already authorized, a Windows Security Alert will be triggered from the Windows Firewall:

a. If the Maitre’D Back-Office computer is on a domain, select the Domain networks, such as a workplace network option.

b. If the Maitre’D Back-Office computer is on a network without a domain, select the Private networks, such as my home or work network option.

c. Click the Allow Access button.

1. The Maitre'D Back-Office Server will start, and an icon will be added to the notification area.

The Maitre'D Back-Office Software is now licensed to run on this PC.

Download Maitre'D Setup Files

To be able to download files for the Maitre'D POS system, you need a distributor account. Please contact your sales representative to obtain an account if you don't already have one.

Logon to the Maitre'D Distributor Portal

1. Logon to:

   http://distributors.maitredpos.com/

2. Select your language.

3. Enter your username and password.

4. Click the Login button.

Access the Software Downloads Section

1. Click the Support link, either at the very top of the page or in the main body.

1. Click Knowledge Base. (You may need to scroll down a bit) This will open a new browser window.

1. Click the Knowledge Base tile.

1. Click the Software Downloads tile.

1. Click the Maitre'D 7 Back-Office Suite Downloads link.

Download the file(s) you need

For Maitre'D 7, there are 3 downloads:

Service Pack Update

Download this file if Maitre'D is already installed and needs to be upgraded to the latest version.

Maitre'D Back-Office Full Install

Download this file to install Maitre'D from scratch on a new system. Includes Service Pack Update 7.08.000.180.

Maitre'D Back-Office DVD

Download this file to have the full contents of the original Maitre'D DVD, which includes the Maitre'D Back-Office Full Install, with a graphical user interface to facilitate the installation of backup and auxiliary servers, POS workstations, etc.

Related Topics

1. Create your own Custom Maitre'D Installer

2. Installation Process for the Maitre'D Back-Office

3. Installation Process for the Maitre'D Point of Sale

4. Installation Process for the Maitre'D Backup Server

5. InstallationProcessAuxiliaryBack-Office

Create your own Custom Maitre'D Installer

To save some time during the installation of a new Maitre'D POS system, a custom installer set can easily be created with the latest service pack update. This way, Maitre'D will be installed and updated to the latest version in one single operation.

Step 1: Download files

Custom installers can be created from the Maitre'D DVD or the Back-Office full install. Download the one you want (or both), and also download the latest service pack update.

Instructions to download files are provided here:

Download Maitre'D Setup Files

Step 2: Extract Files

The files downloaded from the Distributor portal are *.zip files that need to be extracted before they can be used. Fortunately, even a "vanilla" Windows 10 installation has the necessary tools to work with *.zip files.

1. Copy downloaded files to your Windows Desktop.

2. Right-Click the file you wish to extract, and select the Extract All... option.

1. By default, the Windows Zip extraction tool will create a folder with the same name as the Zip file where files will be extracted. Don't change anything and simply click the Extract button. (Don't worry, the original *.zip file will NOT be overwritten).

1. A new folder will be created to store all the extracted files. You may see a progress bar while large files are being extracted.

1. The folder where files were extracted will open automatically for you. You can minimize it to the task bar. We'll be using this later.

Repeat this process for all 3 downloaded files:

• MDBO708000DVD.zip (Maitre'D DVD)

• MDBO708000BO.zip (Maitre'D Back-Office Full Install)

• MDBO708000xxx.zip (Service Pack update, where "xxx" is the Service Pack version number)

Step 3: Copy the Service Pack File

Now that all files were extracted, we need to copy the latest service pack update in the installer sets.

Maitre'D DVD

1. Open the MDBO708000xxx folder, then right-click the MDBO708000xxx.exe file and select Copy.

1. Open the MDBO708000DVD folder, then browse to the \bo\Disk1\ subfolder.

2. Right-click in an empty space within the folder and select the Paste option.

1. The file will be copied.

2. Copy the contents of the MDBO708000DVD folder to the root of a removable media, such as a DVD-ROM or a USB thumb drive.

Installer files are located at the root of the E:\ drive.

This installer will work.

Installer files are located inside a folder, in E:\MDBO708000DVD.

This installer will NOT work.

Maitre'D Back-Office full Install

1. Open the MDBO708000xxx folder, then right-click the MDBO708000xxx.exe file and select Copy.

1. Open the MDBO708000BO folder, then browse to the \Disk1\ subfolder.

2. Right-click in an empty space within the folder and select the Paste option.

1. The file will be copied.

Step 4: Use the installer

The installers are now ready to be used. With the service pack update file copied to the installer folder, the installer will automatically detect that an update is available and prompt for its installation during the Maitre'D setup process.

You can run the Maitre'D Back-Office installation program straight from your desktop. However, it is recommended to copy the install set(s) to removable media, such as a portable hard drive, DVD-ROM or USB thumb drive.

Installation Process for the Maitre'D Auxiliary Back-Office

1. Start the installation process using one of the following methods:

   • Start the Installation from a DVD (or downloaded DVD files), or;

   • Start the Installation from Downloaded Files.

2. Before performing the actual installation, the InstallShield Wizard will analyze your system. If required software components are missing, these will be installed at this point. Click the Install button to proceed.

1. A splash Screen will be briefly displayed.

1. The InstallShield Wizard will prepare the installation. This could take a few seconds.

1. The welcome screen appears. Read the welcome message to make sure that the InstallShield Wizard will install an Auxiliary Back-Office. Click Next > to continue the installation.

1. Read the license agreement and select I accept the terms of the license agreement. Click Next > to continue.

1. Select the Maitre’D installation folders and click Next > to continue.

1. Select whether you prefer connecting to the Maitre'D Main Back-Office Server by Machine Name or by IP Address.

a. If Select by Machine Name was selected, you will be asked to select the PC on which the Maitre'D Main Back-Office Server is running. Click OK after making a selection.

b. If Select by IP Address was selected, you will be asked to type the IP address of the PC on which the Maitre'D Main Back-Office Server is running. Click Next > after typing the IP address.

1. You will be asked to provide a Workstation User ID Number for the Auxiliary Back-Office. This number needs to be unique (not already used by a POS, another auxiliary or another backup server) and between 1 and 63 inclusively.

1. Files will be installed automatically. This could take a few minutes.

1. If a service pack is available, installation will start automatically. It is highly recommended to always install the latest service pack available before using the Maitre’D software. Click Yes to begin the installation of the service pack.

a. The InstallShield Wizard will prepare the Service Pack installation. This could take a few seconds.

b. The welcome screen appears. Click Next > to continue the installation.

c. Read the license agreement. Click Yes to agree and continue the installation.

d. Select the path where the BO.INI file can be found. This should not need to be changed, but you can click Browse… to change the folder if required. The service pack files will be installed in the path as defined in the BO.INI file. Click Next > to proceed.

e. Files will be copied. This could take a few minutes.

1. After files are copied, the InstallShield wizard will remind you that the computer needs to be restarted before Maitre'D can be used. Click the Finish button.

1. A dialog box will inform you that your computer is about to be restarted. Click OK, and your computer will restart.

1. After the computer restart, start the Maitre'D Auxiliary Back-Office by double-clicking the icon on the Windows desktop.

1. Since there is no license installed, you will be prompted to enter a license serial number and a commerce name.

The installation process is now completed. Please proceed to the Maitre’D license activation.

Related Topics

1. Configure the Maitre'D Sharing Options

2. Old icons are displayed following Maitre'D upgrade

Configure your Windows Network Profile

The Network Profile feature was introduced with Windows Vista and was carried over to later versions of Microsoft Windows. In Windows 10, the default Network Profile settings will prevent Maitre'D from working correctly by disabling File & Printer sharing and forcing Password Protected Sharing. This topic explains how to configure these settings to allow Maitre'D to operate normally.

Change Network Profile from "Public" to "Private" or "Domain"

By default, on a new Windows 10 installation, your Network Profile will be set to "Public". This is the most secure setting, and is intended for use on public networks, such as public WiFi provided at airports, coffee shops, etc. This setting will "hide" the PC from other devices on the network, which will cause issues with Maitre'D. This profile also hides settings that need to be enabled for Maitre'D to work correctly. This needs to be changed to either Private or Domain.

Procedure

1. In the Windows Notification area, click on the Network Connection icon, then click on the network connection you wish to configure. (there could be more than one.)

1. This will bring up basic settings. Click on the Network connection (again).

1. The Network profile options will be displayed. Select either Private or Domain.

Domain or Private Network Profile, which one to select?

If your Maitre'D Main Back-Office PC is part of an Active Directory Domain, your Network Profile needs to be set to "Domain". If the PC is not on a domain, this option will not be available, therefore your Network Profile needs to be set to "Private".

If you believe that the PC should be using the Domain Network Profile but this option is not available, please ask your network administrator for advice.

Change Network Profile Options

1. Just like before, in the Windows Notification area, click on the Network Connection icon, then click on the network connection you wish to configure. (there could be more than one.)

1. This will bring up basic settings. This time, click Change advanced sharing options.

1. Under the Private (or domain) profile, make sure that:

a. Turn on network discovery is selected.

b. Turn on file and printer sharing is selected.

1. Click on the down-arrow next to All Networks. This will display more options.

2. Scroll down to the Password Protected Sharing section and select Turn off password protected sharing.

1. Click Save changes.

This configuration needs to be done on the Main Back-Office PC, all Auxiliary Back-Office and Backup Server PCs, as well as on all POS workstations.

Test Connectivity

The connectivity between the Main Maitre'D Back-Office PC and other components of the Maitre'D network can easily be tested. For the example below, we are testing connectivity to a PC named "MAIN-BACK-OFFICE".

1. From any PC or POS on the Maitre'D network, right-click the Windows Start button and select Run...

1. In the Run... box, type two back-slashes (\\) followed by the name of the PC you want to connect to. For example:

\\MAIN-BACK-OFFICE

1. Click OK.

a. If the Maitre'D Back-Office is already installed, you will see the MaitreD shared folder on the PC named MAIN-BACK-OFFICE.

b. If the Maitre'D Back-Office is not yet installed, you will see an empty folder on the PC named MAIN-BACK-OFFICE.

c. If the network settings are not configured properly, you will see an error message.

The network settings now allow communication between all the components of the Maitre'D Network.

Installation Process for the Maitre'D Back-Office

1. Start the installation process using one of the following methods:

   • Start the Installation from a DVD (or downloaded DVD files), or;

   • Start the Installation from Downloaded Files.

2. Before performing the actual installation, the InstallShield Wizard will analyze your system. If required software components are missing, these will be installed at this point. Click the Install button to proceed.

1. A splash Screen will be briefly displayed.

1. The InstallShield Wizard will prepare the installation. This could take a few seconds.

1. The welcome screen appears. Click Next > to continue the installation.

1. Read the license agreement and select I accept the terms of the license agreement. Click Next > to continue.

1. Select the Maitre’D installation folders and click Next > to continue.

1. Select the type of installation and click Next > to continue. The available types are described below.

Empty Data

Select this option to install Maitre’D with an empty database. It will need to be fully programmed before use.

French demo restaurant data

Select this option to install a generic restaurant data for demonstration purposes in the French language.

Load data at startup

Select this option to restore an existing restaurant data when the software is started for the first time.

Standard demo restaurant data

Select this option to install a generic restaurant data for demonstration purposes in the English language.

1. Select the Maitre’D program group that will be created in the Windows Start Menu. Click Next > to continue.

1. Files will be installed automatically. This could take a few minutes.

1. If a service pack is available, installation will start automatically. It is highly recommended to always install the latest service pack available before using the Maitre’D software. Click Yes to begin the installation of the service pack.

a. The InstallShield Wizard will prepare the Service Pack installation. This could take a few seconds.

b. The welcome screen appears. Click Next > to continue the installation.

c. Read the license agreement. Click Yes to agree and continue the installation.

d. Select the path where the BO.INI file can be found. This should not need to be changed, but you can click Browse… to change the folder if required. The service pack files will be installed in the path as defined in the BO.INI file. Click Next > to proceed.

e. Files will be copied. This could take a few minutes.

1. After files are copied, the InstallShield wizard will remind you that the computer needs to be restarted before Maitre'D can be used. Click the Finish button.

1. A dialog box will inform you that your computer is about to be restarted. Click OK, and your computer will restart.

1. After the computer restart, the Maitre'D Back-Office Server will attempt to start.

2. Since there is no license installed, you will be prompted to enter a license serial number and a commerce name.

The installation process is now completed. Please proceed to the Maitre’D license activation.

Related Topics

1. Configure the Maitre'D Sharing Options

2. Old icons are displayed following Maitre'D upgrade

Installation Process for the Maitre'D Point of Sale

(blank in the original doc)

First login

This section explains how to logon to the Maitre’D Back-Office for the first time after installing and activating the Maitre’D software.

1. From the Windows Desktop, double-click the Maitre’D Back-Office icon.

1. The login prompt appears. Type Distributor (with a capital “D”) in the User Name field, and press the space bar twice in the password field. Click OK to proceed.

1. The language selector appears. Select the appropriate language and click OK to proceed.

1. You will be prompted to create a new Distributor password. Enter a password that meets requirements and click OK to proceed.

1. The Maitre’D Back-Office desktop will be displayed.

Start the Installation from Downloaded Files

Using downloaded files is the quickest way to get a system up and running. However, it gets a bit tricky if you need to install an auxiliary or backup server. These matters will be covered here.

Before you begin, we highly recommend downloading the latest installer and service pack, and creating your own install set. This will allow you to install Maitre'D and get it updated to the latest version in one single operation.

Please see:

Download Maitre'D Setup Files

Create a custom Maitre'D Installer

Start the Installation for the Maitre'D Back-Office

1. Make sure the installer files are extracted, either on you local hard drive or on a removable media. Installation will not work if the files are still within a *.zip archive. (See Extracting Files)

2. Using Windows File Explorer, browse to the folder containing the install files.

3. Locate the file called Setup.exe and double-click on it.

4. You may get a UAC warning. Click Yes.

1. The Maitre'D Back-Office InstallShield wizard will start.

2. Follow the steps described in Installation Process for the Maitre'D Back-Office.

Start the Installation Process for a Maitre'D Auxiliary Back-Office

1. Extract the installation files on you local hard drive. We will be using the command prompt, so to make your life easier, you can copy the files in a folder at the root of the C:\ drive. For this example, we copied the install files to a folder called MD_Install, at the root of the C:\ drive.

1. Open an elevated command prompt by clicking the Windows Start menu and typing "CMD". Select the Run as Administrator option.

You may get a UAC warning. Click Yes.>

1. The command prompt will open at the C:\Windows\System32> prompt. Jump to the root of the C:\ drive by typing the following command:

cd\ [ENTER]

1. navigate to the MD_Install folder by typing the following command at the C:\> prompt:

cd md_install [ENTER]

1. The prompt will not look like this: C:\MD_Install>. Start the Maitre'D Auxiliary Back-Office setup by typing the following command:

setup.exe aux [ENTER]

1. The installation process will start. Follow the steps as outlined in the Installation Process for the Maitre'D Auxiliary Back-Office.

Start the Installation Process for a Maitre'D Backup Server

1. Repeat steps 1 through 5 of the Auxiliary Back-Office setup above.

2. The prompt will not look like this: C:\MD_Install>. Start the Maitre'D Backup Server setup by typing the following command:

   setup.exe backup [ENTER]

1. The installation process will start. Follow the steps as outlined in the Installation Process for the Maitre'D Backup Server.

Related Topics

1. InstallationProcessAuxiliaryBack-Office

2. Installation Process for the Maitre'D Backup Server

Installation Process for the Maitre'D Backup Server

1. Start the installation process using one of the following methods:

   • Start the Installation from a DVD (or downloaded DVD files), or;

   • Start the Installation from Downloaded Files.

2. Before performing the actual installation, the InstallShield Wizard will analyze your system. If required software components are missing, these will be installed at this point. Click the Install button to proceed.

1. A splash Screen will be briefly displayed.

1. The InstallShield Wizard will prepare the installation. This could take a few seconds.

1. The welcome screen appears. Read the welcome message to make sure that the InstallShield Wizard will install a Maitre'D Backup Server. Click Next > to continue the installation.

1. Read the license agreement and select I accept the terms of the license agreement. Click Next > to continue.

1. Select the Maitre’D installation folders and click Next > to continue.

1. Select whether you prefer connecting to the Maitre'D Main Back-Office Server by Machine Name or by IP Address.

a. If Select by Machine Name was selected, you will be asked to select the PC on which the Maitre'D Main Back-Office Server is running. Click OK after making a selection.

b. If Select by IP Address was selected, you will be asked to type the IP address of the PC on which the Maitre'D Main Back-Office Server is running. Click Next > after typing the IP address.

1. You will be asked to provide a Workstation User ID Number for the Backup Server. This number needs to be unique (not already used by a POS, another auxiliary or another backup server) and between 1 and 63 inclusively.

1. Files will be installed automatically. This could take a few minutes.

1. If a service pack is available, installation will start automatically. It is highly recommended to always install the latest service pack available before using the Maitre’D software. Click Yes to begin the installation of the service pack.

a) The InstallShield Wizard will prepare the Service Pack installation. This could take a few seconds.

b) The welcome screen appears. Click Next > to continue the installation.

c) Read the license agreement. Click Yes to agree and continue the installation.

d) Select the path where the BO.INI file can be found. This should not need to be changed, but you can click Browse… to change the folder if required. The service pack files will be installed in the path as defined in the BO.INI file. Click Next > to proceed.

e) Files will be copied. This could take a few minutes.

1. After files are copied, the InstallShield wizard will remind you that the computer needs to be restarted before Maitre'D can be used. Click the Finish button.

1. A dialog box will inform you that your computer is about to be restarted. Click OK, and your computer will restart.

1. After the computer restart, start the Maitre'D Back-Office Server will attempt to start itself in Backup mode.

1. Since there is no license installed, you will be prompted to enter a license serial number and a commerce name.

The installation process is now completed. Please proceed to the Maitre’D license activation.

Related Topics

1. Configure the Maitre'D Sharing Options

2. Old icons are displayed following Maitre'D upgrade

Maitre'D Auxiliary Back-Office License Activation

Before activating the license

Before the license can be activated, you need:

License Serial Number

When activating an Auxiliary Back-Office, the serial number to use is the same as the Main Back-Office. The Auxiliary back-Office is an option that can be purchased through the same channels as new licenses and license add-ons.

Commerce Name

When activating an Auxiliary Back-Office, the Main Back-Office should already be up-and-running, therefore the commerce name is already established and can no longer be changed.

Obtain the commerce name from printed guest checks or receipts, or by looking up the license details on the Main Back-Office PC.

License activation process

With the license serial number and commerce name in hand, you can proceed with the license activation.

1. After restarting from the installation of the Maitre’D Back-Office, Auxiliary or Backup Server software, the Maitre’D License Activation prompt will automatically appear.

1. Enter the required information:

a. Type in the license Serial Number as it appears on your Maitre’D invoice.

b. Type in the Commerce Name as it should appear in the Maitre’D Back-Office, on report headers and on the header of printed guest checks, invoices and receipts.

c. Click Next >> to continue the process.

1. The Site Code will be generated. Select it and copy it to the clipboard.

1. Logon to the Maitre'D Distributor Portal:

1. Select your language.

2. Enter your username and password, then click the Login button.

3. Click the License Activation link, near the top of the page.

1. Type in the license serial number and click the Submit button.

1. Locate the activation record for your license and click the Activate link.

1. If this is the very first activation of this license, you will be allowed to type in the Restaurant Name (commerce name). This name is case sensitive. Otherwise, the restaurant name will be filled in for you and cannot be modified.

2. Paste in the Site Code copied earlier.

3. Click the Generate button.

1. Your Activation Code (key code) will be generated. Select it and copy it to the clipboard.

1. Paste the key code (activation code) in the Key Code field and click Next >> to continue.

1. A confirmation prompt will appear, stating that the computer needs to be restarted.

1. Click Yes to restart your computer.

1. After restarting, start the Maitre’D Auxiliary Back-Office by double-clicking the corresponding icon on the Windows Desktop.

The Maitre'D Auxiliary Back-Office Software is now licensed to run on this PC.

Maitre'D User Editor

After the initial logon and initial user creation is completed, other user accounts will need to be created. These accounts can be used for various tasks, ranging from basic reporting to all types of configuration changes. Due to the sensitive nature of the data that can be accessed through the Maitre’D Back-Office, its access needs to be protected adequately by usernames and passwords.

Furthermore, to ensure compliance with PCI-DSS, individual user accounts need to be created for each user requiring access to the Maitre’D Back-Office. Sharing accounts or disclosing passwords will automatically make your site non-compliant against PCI-DSS rules.

Accessing the User Editor Tool

1. Logon to the Maitre’D Back-Office with appropriate credentials. (Distributor or System Owner)

1. From the main back-office screen, click on the Tools menu, and select the User Editor option.

1. The User Editor window will be displayed. All existing users with access levels equal or lower than yours will be listed here, if any.

Click the New button to create a new user.

Click the Delete button to permanently delete an existing user

This button is only available to PayFacto technicians to reset an account’s password history for troubleshooting purposes.

Click the UnLock button to unlock a locked account.

Click the Discard button to clear information that was entered during the process of creating a new user.

Click OK to commit changes and exit out of the User Editor tool.

Click Apply to commit changes without exiting from the User Editor Tool.

Click Cancel to exit out of the User Editor tool without saving changes.

Create a new user

1. Click the New button to start the process.

2. User Name

Type a user name for this account. The user name should allow the person logging in to be identified.

3. Access Level

Choose an access level for this user:

Distributor

This access is restricted to Maitre’D Certified technicians and Resellers. All other access levels are unable to see or grant this access.

System Owner

The System Owner access level is restricted to the restaurant management. Only top-level managers should have this access, as this allows them to create and delete other users, as well perform any administrative task on the Maitre’D system.

Access Levels 2 through 8

These access levels can be fully customized. These access levels can be used for anyone requiring access to the Maitre’D back-office software.

4. Password

Type in a password for the new user. The password must be at least 7 characters, and comprised of a mix of letters and numbers.

5. Confirm Password

Confirm the password for this new user.

6. User must change password at next login

Enable this option to force the user to change the login password during the next login. This option should be used for every new account and afterwards if there is a doubt that an account password may have been compromised.

7. Apply

Click the Apply button to create the user without exiting the User Editor. This will allow you to create more users.

8. OK

Click OK to save your changes and exit.

Changing passwords

Maitre’D will automatically force users to change their passwords every 90 days. Also, Maitre’D keeps a history of each user’s passwords so that the last 4 passwords cannot be re-used. In case a password becomes compromised or if you have any doubts to that effect, you can force any user to change their password by checking the User must change password at next login box in their account’s properties. Of course, you need to be logged in with Distributor or System Owner access in order to do this.

Locked accounts

After 5 unsuccessful login attempts, Maitre’D will automatically lock the user account. To unlock an account, someone with Distributor or System Owner access needs to login, access the user editor, select the locked account and click the Unlock button.

Locked accounts are marked with a padlock icon:

General user accounts and passwords guidelines

• Never share your password with anyone, for any reason, under any circumstances.

• Use complex passwords. Maitre’D already forces you to use a minimum of 7 characters with a mix of letters and numbers, however:

  • Try using 8 or more characters. Long passwords are harder to guess.

  • Avoid using combinations like 123abcd, or 123456a, or abcdef1, etc. These combinations are easy to guess and can get your system compromised.

  • Avoid using combinations of adjacent letters and numbers on the keyboard, such as “qwertyu8”.

  • Avoid using common words with letters replaced by numbers or symbols, such as “P@ssw0rd” or M1cro$0ft. Unfortunately, hackers know these tricks, too.

  • Try using 8 or more characters mixed in with capital letters, numbers and special characters. A very effective technique is to choose a phrase which only you would know, then take the first few letters of each word to start building your password. Then, throw in a few numbers and add a special character or two.

• Do not use any word from any dictionary in any language. Hackers can use sophisticated dictionary attacks; therefore, any dictionary words are not safe to use as passwords.

• Never use any kind of personal information as your password, such as your spouse’s name, children’s names, birth dates, anniversaries, etc.

• Make sure that only key personnel have Distributor or System Owner access. Give lower access to everyone else.

• If you have even the smallest doubt that someone may know your password, have it changed immediately.

• When an employee quits or is terminated, immediately delete this person’s account from Maitre’D. If you need to keep the account for audit purposes, then immediately change the password.

• Strictly enforce passwords management policies with all employees using any part of your computer system.

Main Back-Office Introduction

The Main Back-Office desktop is the starting point for all tasks that can be carried out at the Maitre'D Back-Office PC. It gives you access to all the Maitre'D modules as well as tools to manage your license options and Back-Office users.

Maitre'D Back-Office Modules

Below is a short description of every module and option that can appear on the Maitre'D Main Back-Office Desktop. For more information on a specific module, please consult the documentation specific to that module.

Point of Sale Control

The Point of Sale (POS) Control module is a core Maitre'D module that is included with every license. It allows restaurants to manage their day-to-day operations from one central location. This is where employee access to the POS workstations is managed and where sales items are created.

Delivery

Delivery is an optional module that can be purchased separately. It allows restaurants to configure the delivery system, including creating, modifying and deleting customers and street code records.

Electronic Funds Transfer

Electronic Funds Transfer is an optional module that allows Maitre'D to interface with various payment solution providers to process credit and debit card payments.

Inventory Management

Inventory Management is an optional module that allows restaurants to keep track of all the stock trough recipes linking ingredients to sales items.

Account Receivable

Account Receivable is an optional module that allows restaurants to manage their customer's accounts. Customers can charge meals to their account and restaurants can send statements to their customers.

Time and Attendance

Time and Attendance is an optional module that allows restaurants to manage employee's schedules, tasks, pay rates, punch-in, punch-out and break times.

Accounting Interface

The Accounting Interface is an optional module that allows Maitre'D to interface with third-party accounting software such as Quickbooks and ACCPAC.

Report Center

Database

System Configuration is a core Maitre'D module that is included with every license. It is used to configure general restaurant data such as postal and shipping addresses, and also to configure localization data such as currency symbols, date and time formats, etc. This module is also used to manage backups of the Maitre'D settings and contains advanced configuration options to modify all the prompts contained in the Maitre'D system.

Server Control

Server Control is a core Maitre'D module that is included with every license. As its name implies, this module contains all the options to manage the Maitre'D Back-Office Server, like starting and stopping the server, performing end-of-days, etc. This module also includes many optional interfaces such as the hotel Interface, gift certificate interface, discount manager, etc.

Local Workstation

The Local Workstation icon appears when the Local Workstation option is enabled within the Server Control module. This option allows the main Back-Office PC to be used as a POS workstation.

Converter

Converter is an optional module that is included with E-Global and DataBoard solutions. It allows the conversion of data files from sales, management, payroll and inventory in industry-standard database format for consumption by E-Global Corporate Communication Module (CCM), DataBoard, or other third-party solution. It also manages incoming data from E-Global.

Floor Management

Floor Management is an optional module that allows restaurants to manage their floor plans, create sections and view the floor plan with a graphical representation.

Exit and log on

The Exit and log on icon is used to quickly close all open Maitre'D Back-Office modules and display the login prompt.

Check Current License Options

1. Logon to the Maitre’D Back-Office with appropriate credentials. (Distributor or System Owner)

1. On the Main Back-Office screen, click on the File menu and select the Licenses… option.

1. The Installed Licenses window will appear.

• Verify all the modules, interfaces and options listed here and make sure they correspond to your Maitre’D invoice.

• Also make sure that the license Serial Number and Commerce Name are correct.

If a purchased option is missing or if there is a mistake in the commerce name, please contact the Maitre’D help desk to have the missing options added to your license.

Maitre'D Access Editor

The Access Editor is located under the Tools pull down menu in the main Back-Office screen.

This option allows the creation and modification of Back-Office access levels.

There are 9 levels of access in Maitre’D. Level Zero is the highest and can access levels 1 to 8. Level 1 may access levels 2 to 8. A lower level access may not have more accesses than a higher level. E.g. Level 5 may only have access to those options available in 6 to 8.

Distributor Access (Level 0)

This access is restricted to Maitre’D Certified technicians and installers. All other access levels are unable to see or grant this access. The properties of this access level cannot be modified, and except for certified technicians, no one should ever have this access, no matter the reason.

System Owner Access (Level 1)

The System Owner access level is restricted to the restaurant management. Only top-level managers should have this access, as this allows them to create and delete other users, as well as take media reports with decrypted credit card PANs and expiration dates. This access cannot see or modify the distributor access.

Access Levels 2 to 8

These levels can be fully customized. Each access level can change the properties of the lower access levels, but not the higher access levels. These levels can be assigned to anyone with a business requirement to use the back-office software. These access levels are typically assigned for price maintenance tasks, report taking, batch closing, etc.

Default Language

The default language used throughout the Maitre’D Back-Office and POS workstations is determined by the language configured for the System Owner access level. All access levels can be assigned different languages, but it’s the System Owner language that will decide which one is the default.

Access Level Selection

Upon opening the Access Editor tool, you will be prompted for an access level. Select the access level which you want to edit. Note that the Distributor access level cannot be edited.

Password Editor

Password

Type in the quick-access password to use to open the Maitre’D Back-Office with this access level. This essentially allows the user to login by typing only a password, without a username.

Fast Access

Enabling the Fast Access option allows you to create scripted tasks for Maitre’D Back-Office users with this access. Instead of gaining full access to all the features of the Maitre’D Back-Office, the user will be forced to perform specific tasks.

Fast Access

Enable this option to enable the Fast Access feature and gain access to the Advanced Access option and Settings button. If this option is enabled without any other option, users will be constricted to their scripted tasks, without any possibility of performing any other action in the Maitre’D Back-Office.

Advanced Access

With this option enabled, users will be able to access all the features of the Maitre’D Back-Office once the scripted tasks have been executed.

Shortcut Access

This option only affects access levels 2 to 8. Enable this option to allow users to use the blue shortcuts throughout the Maitre’D Back-Office.

Settings

Click the Settings button to configure the scripted tasks for this user access.

Language

Select the Maitre’D Back-Office language to be used by this user access. Available choices are English, French or Spanish.

Fast Access Settings

Fast Access Settings are accessed by clicking the Settings button on the Password Editor Screen. This dialog allows you to setup the tasks that users will be able to perform.

Select an existing task and click the Execute button to perform this task.

Click the Add button to create a new task and add it to the list.

Select an existing task and click the Remove button to delete it from the list.

Select an existing task and click the Edit button to change its properties.

Click the Save button to save settings and exit.

Click Cancel to exit without saving.

Access Editor

The access editor allows you to fully customize the Maitre’D Back-Office modules and menu options that users can or cannot access.

The access editor can be used in conjunction with the Fast Access feature to further restrict access to only the features that are necessary for specific employee job function.

A green checkmark indicates that this user can access a module or menu.

A red “X” indicates that this user cannot access the indicated module or menu.

Use the “+” and “-“ signs to expand or collapse branches and sub-branches.

Select a branch or a menu option and click the Toggle button to switch between the green checkmark and red “X”. Toggling the top level of a branch will cause all the sub-elements under that branch to be toggled in one operation.

Click the Apply button to save settings without exiting.

Click OK to save settings and exit.

Click Cancel to exit without saving.

Add-on Option to Existing License

After your Maitre'D license has been activated, it is possible to add new options to it, to keep up with your business' growth. For instance, you could add a new module such as the Inventory Management module, or increase the number of POS workstations to meet your needs.

Purchase add-on options

The first step to add new functionalities to your Maitre'D license is to contact your PayFacto representative to purchase the options you need. Once the purchase and invoicing process has been completed, you will be able to start the activation process.

Add-on activation process

1. Logon to the Maitre’D Back-Office with appropriate credentials. (Distributor or System Owner)

1. On the Main Back-Office screen, click on the File menu and select the Licenses… option.

1. The Installed Licenses window will appear.

1. Click the Modify button. This will bring up the Request Key Code window. Leave this window up on the screen, and proceed to the next step.

1. Logon to the Maitre'D Distributor Portal:

1. Click on Orders and Licensing.

1. Click on License Activation.

1. Enter the Maitre'D license Serial Number for which the add-on was purchased and click the Submit button.

1. Available add-ons will be listed here. Locate the Add-On you wish to activate and click the Activate link. For the purpose of this example, we are activating an add-on for two new Mobile POS workstations.

1. The Distributor Portal will request a Site Code.

1. Copy the Site Code from the Request Key Code window which you left open earlier. Paste the Site Code in the Site Code field of the Distributor Portal. Click the Generate button on the Distributor Portal and click the Next >> button on the Request Key Code window.

1. The Distributor Portal will now display the Activation Code. Select the entire code and copy it to the clipboard by pressing CTRL + C on your keyboard.

1. Maitre'D will now request a Key Code. Paste the Activation Code which you copied from the website by pressing CTRL + V on your keyboard. Click Next >>

1. The Maitre'D license will be updated, which could take a few seconds. Once the license is updated, click Close.

1. You will be prompted to restart the computer. Log off from the Maitre'D distributor portal, save your work and close applications that may be running, then click Yes to restart your computer.

Once the computer finishes restarting, logon to the Maitre'D Back-Office as you normally would and start using your new options.