Step 1: Before you Begin

Before starting, make sure all other Auction Flex workstations, auction flex mobile server, and RF modem servers are completely closed.

Further, make sure you are in a time and place where you can access support assistance (available during the hours of 9 AM to 5 PM EST, Monday through Friday).

Step 2: Create a Backup

Before upgrading Auction Flex to a newer version, it’s important to back up your data and validate it to prevent issues during the upgrade.

To begin, make sure you are accessing Auction Flex from your primary computer.

From the top menu, click Backup.
Select Backup Data.
Enter a name for the backup in the text box and click OK.
You will get a popup noting that you will need to specify where the backup will be copied to on your computer; click OK to continue.
Auction Flex will automatically select your default backup location (usually c:\auctionflex\backup). However, if you want to change the location, navigate to the desired folder from the “Select Destination Path” box and click Select.
When the backup finishes, you will see a confirmation message. Click OK.
You will then see a warning that the backup does not include images. Click OK to continue.

Your backup is now complete.

Step 3: Run Data Utilities

After the backup is complete, you must run data utilities to fix any corruption and remove unnecessary information.

Note: Do not run these utilities until the backup has been created.

To ensure the safety of your data, you will see a reminder before each step confirming that a backup was created. Further, depending on the size of your data, these steps may take a longer to complete; ensure you have ample time to do so.

3.1 Verify Data and Indexes

Click Verify Data and Indexes.
You should see a message stating that no corrupted tables or indexes were found. Click OK.

Note: If the system reports that it found and fixed errors, repeat this step until you receive the message above. If you receive any other error, contact support.

3.2 Check for Data Irregularities

Click Check for Data Irregularities.
You should see a message stating “No data irregularities were found.” Click OK.

Note: If errors are found and fixed, repeat this step until no irregularities are shown. If you receive any other error, contact support.

3.3 Pack Data and Rebuild Indexes

Click Pack Data and Rebuild Indexes.
When complete, you should see the message “Table Maintenance was successful.” Click OK.

Note: If errors were found and fixed, repeat this step until the process completes cleanly. If you receive any other error, contact support.

Once all three utilities complete successfully, you’re ready to upgrade.

Step 4: Update the Software and Upgrade Your Data

Before you begin, download the latest version of Auction Flex here:

Note: Save the installer to your Primary Auction Flex folder found in the C: drive of your primary computer (c:\auctionflex). By saving in this folder instead of the default “Downloads” folder, it will be easier to find and install in secondary computers.

Double-click the Auction Flex installer.
On the welcome screen, click Next.
After you read the Terms and Conditions, check the box to accept, then click Next.
Next, you’ll need to set the destination folder. The default is C:\AuctionFlex, but if your current Auction Flex installation is in a different location this can be fixed by clicking Change and navigating through the windows explorer pop up.
With the destination folder set, click Next.
Click Install.
When installation completes, click Finish to launch Auction Flex and begin the data upgrade.
With the update installed, Auction Flex will automatically install novaPDF, which is required for generating reports.

The update is now installed; however, the data has not yet been upgraded.

Step 5: Upgrade the Data on the Primary Computer

You will be prompted to confirm this is a “Primary Installation”, meaning that this is being done on the primary computer. Click Yes.
Auction Flex will ask if you want to back up before upgrading the data. Click OK.
Enter a name for the backup in the text box and click OK.
Auction Flex will automatically select your default backup location. However, if you want to change the location, navigate to the desired folder from the “Select Destination Path” box and click Select.
When the backup finishes, you will see a confirmation message. Click OK.
Auction Flex will begin upgrading your data. It’s important to note that upgrade time will vary based on:
1. The version you are upgrading from
2. The size of your data
3. The speed of the computer
When the upgrade completes, click OK on the reminder window.
Finally, click OK on the “Data has successfully been updated” message.

Note: If you see any error messages or the upgrade fails, contact support for further assistance.

Step 6: Best Practices Screens

You will be guided through a few best practice reminders; to begin, click Next.

For each of these, read the best practice carefully, then check the “I Understand” box and click Next.

Do not to network secondary pcs over Wi-Fi.
Do use an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS).
Do perform frequent backups.

4. Lastly, choose your preferred interface:

Easy Navigator Mode: This mode is simplified and straightforward, intended for simpler activities and initially learning the software.
Advanced Navigator Mode: This mode showcases the full capabilities of Auction Flex, allowing for more complex activities.

Note: Before continuing on to upgrading any secondary computers, open Auction Flex and ensure it is navigable and functioning.

Step 7: Upgrade Secondary Computers

Note: AFM Clerking Computers must all use the exact same version of Auction Flex as your primary computer. We recommend loading the v10 Installer onto a USB flash drive or other data storage device and running it on all RF Modem Clerking computers. It does not matter if you choose Primary or Secondary Installation in this instance.

After the primary computer and data are upgraded: