WARNING: It is generally recommended to use File Tools for copying, backing up and restoring operations because File Tools will verify if data is in use, is valid, and ensures all data is copied correctly, which prevents corrupt errors. Do not use Windows Explorer to copy individual files. It may be possible to use Windows Explorer to copy entire folder contents only, and only if no one is using the data. Using Windows Explorer to copy data when someone is using the data can cause the copied data to be corrupt.

Note: When an estimate is created, it records the path of the database. For example, if the database path is S:\Data\Estimating\GC Database\, this path is recorded into each estimate that is created. When you move data from one location to another, if you keep the same structure, mapped drive, etc., when you open existing estimates, they will be able to open their associated database. If the path is changed for any reason, when you attempt to open an existing estimate, it will prompt you that it can't find the database, and will ask if you want to use a new database, or open the estimate without a database, or to cancel. If the paths have changed, you can simply click Yes and point it to the new location. This re-associates the estimate to its parent database.

1. Before proceeding, come up with a plan on how to set up your Estimating data structure on the new server. See link below on how to organize your estimates and databases.
2. Use File Tools to copy the database and estimate files to the new server.
   • File Tools can be launched via Sage Estimating, File, File Tools.
3. Database files use the *.DAT extension. This includes the PEI.DAT, PES.DAT, PWA.DAT, PWC.DAT, and PWR.DAT.
   • Estimate files use the *.PEE extension.
   • The Options file is pewin.opt and its current location can be found in Edit, Options, Folders, Options file folder.
   • If you are not using Sage 300 CRE Accounting, copy the Address Book folder found in Database, Database Settings, Company, Company Folder and update this location after moving the database and address book to the new computer (if the path is changed)
   • WARNING: As noted, do not use Windows Explorer to copy individual files. If you do this improperly, you will get a corrupt error message. Use File Tools to copy individual files.
4. Share the folder that contains the data files on the new server. Preferably, you want to share the data on the same level as on the old server. However, if you plan on reorganizing the data structure, this does not matter as much.
5. Verify that the Everyone account (or your own security group for Sage 300 CRE operators and the SYSTEM account) is in the group or user names list and has full control to the share. See link below on required permissions.
6. Install Estimating on the server hosting the data. See link below on how to install Estimating.
7. The first time you start Estimating on the workstation, it will not automatically know where the data is. You must browse to the data folder on the server via UNC path or mapped drive to open the database or estimate.
   • Example: \\[server name]\[share name]\[Estimating data folder]
   • If this is a standalone computer, you can simply browse to where it is stored on the C:\ drive, for example.