System Requirements

This page provides a summary of minimum specifications for desktop and laptop computers as well as mobile devices required to run Technosylva’s Desktop, Web, and Mobile applications. For additional details about specific programs, please see the System Requirements page for that program.

Application Overview

• Desktop: A standard Windows application that can be run on a desktop or laptop computer.

• Web: Requires an internet connection and a modern browser, such as Google Chrome, Edge, or Mozilla Firefox (Internet Explorer is not supported).

• Mobile: A native app available on Android and Apple devices.

Internet Connectivity

All desktop and web applications require an internet connection to access data in cloud servers. The fiResponse, Tactical Analyst, and Activity Tracker mobile apps are designed to work offline in a limited capacity provided that the app on the mobile device has conducted an initial sync while connected to a cellular or wireless internet connection.

General Network Requirements

Technosylva utilizes a centralized cloud database to synchronize data for desktop, web, and mobile users of applications. Separate applications exist for desktop, web, and mobile and network bandwidth and latency can greatly influence performance in these platforms.

• Network: An internet connection is required to facilitate contact to the centralized database (hosted using off-site Microsoft Azure cloud computing).

• Bandwidth: A dedicated internet connection of at least 15 Mbps per user is recommended for optimal real-time performance. Higher speeds will improve data transfer between the application and database, especially when other applications are consuming bandwidth.

• Latency: Real-time performance will operate well with a maximum latency of 100 ms. Lower than 50 ms latency will speed data transfer time between the application and database and improve performance.

Web Applications: Browser Requirements

The application supports 64-bit versions of Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, and Microsoft Edge. Chrome or Firefox is preferred for optimal performance.

Browser and Network Recommendations Summary

* Speed and latency values are recommended for individual users (not shared bandwidth across multiple users).

** All browsers MUST be 64-bit versions. 32-bit is not supported and has significant compatibility issues with Technosylva applications.

Desktop Software: Additional Network Considerations

Wildfire Analyst Desktop

• Daily Forecast Downloads: The application downloads daily forecast data to the local client machine. After the download, only minimal connectivity is required, as the application operates on local data files. These files are typically around 200 MB in size and download times will vary based on available network speed.

• Simulation Submission and Retrieval: Wildfire spread simulations are submitted and retrieved using small data files that transfer quickly. Once downloaded, the simulation results operate locally within the Desktop application. Prediction results typically download to the local device within 1 to 5 seconds.

fiResponse and Wildfire Analyst Desktop

• Basemap Services: The map canvas uses online basemap services, which require an internet connection. Alternatively, users can load local TPK (Tile Package) files as basemaps, eliminating the need for internet-based map services.

Desktop Software: Hardware Requirements for Desktop or Laptop Machines

* Assumes the computer is not running a significant number of other applications. Chrome Browser Tabs and applications such as Google Earth Desktop and Esri ArcGIS Pro Desktop can utilize significant computer memory (RAM). Close them if possible. If numerous applications are needed while running Technosylva software, the High Performance computer specifications are recommended.

** Assumes disk size is larger. Recommended disk space allows for local basemaps that can be used in desktop applications when not connected to the internet. Additionally, the local database grows as data is added.

*** The use of a 3D map globe and display of large map data files necessitates a fast dedicated graphics/video card on the computer. The minimum requirements match most Microsoft Surface Pro laptops and will yield acceptable performance. Higher resolution video and monitors will enhance visualization capabilities and viewing of multiple data panels. These specifications are suggested if dispatchers are running dual monitors (preferred configuration).

† Or equivalent specifications.

3rd Party Software Requirements

Microsoft .NET Runtime: A current version of the Microsoft .NET Runtime is typically a required operating system component found on all Windows computers, specifically those running Microsoft Office or similar software. In most cases the .NET runtime is already installed. If not, it will be detected during Desktop Installation, and the user will be prompted to install the necessary .NET version.

The following third-party software prerequisites are required for the Desktop applications:

• Microsoft .NET Runtime: .NET 6 (LTS) or newer

• Microsoft SQL Server Express LocalDB: Version 2019 or newer

• Microsoft OLE DB Driver for SQL Server (recommended over deprecated SQL Native Client)

• Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable: 2015–2022 (latest version)

• Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime: Evergreen Bootstrapper (installed silently during setup if not already present)

Mobile Applications

Minimum Device Specifications

These or equivalent specifications are recommended.

* A list of compatible makes/models can be provided upon request. This may change as the software is upgraded.

** For offline basemaps in the form of tile packages (TPKs), additional storage may be required.

Considerations for Organization Mobile Device Policy

Google (Android) and Apple (iOS) policies and minimum requirements for publishing apps publicly and/or through organizational storefronts are updated regularly. These updates frequently require devices to be running updated operating systems and makes/models that are no more than 3 to 5 years old, with a recommended update cycle of 3 years maximum. Mobile apps are frequently updated to maintain compliance with Google and Apple requirements.