Installing the Tree Planter's Record System (TPRS)

What do you need to run TPRS?
TPRS will run on any computer that can run Java, which means almost all computers and operating systems these days.  We recomnmend that you have your monitor set to 1024 x 768 pixels or greater, but it will run at lower resolutions.  Running at lower resolutions will mean that you need to scroll to see some of the controls and fields.
What is the Java Runtime Engine (JRE) and why is it needed?
Java is a computer language that runs on most operating systems (Windows, Apple, Linux, etc.) by translating Java code into machine code suitable for those operating systems.  Users need to install a core of functions that make connections to the operating system from Java programs.   This core of functions is called the "Java runtime engine" or "JRE", and versions of the JRE are available for a wide variety of operating systems.
How do I install the JRE?
The Java language was created by the Sun Corporation.  We have made CDs that have the JRE installation files for most popular operating systems, and you can get these from your local NZ Farm Forestry Association branch or from the NZFFA head office in Wellington.  We recommend that approach, because the JRE installation file is large and it will take a long time for you to download it unless you have a very fast internet connection.  If you wish, you can download the JRE version 5.0 for your computer here - you need to download the "J2SE 5.0 JRE" near the middle of the first page on the Sun site.

When you have obtained the installation file, simply run it and follow instructions for the default JRE installation.
Why do I have to download the TPRS software?
TPRS is delivered and installed by "Java webstart", a technology that ensures you can easily obtain the latest version of TPRS.  If you are connected to the internet when you start TPRS, Java webstart checks to see if we have created a new version.  If a new version is available, those portions of TPRS that we have updated will be automatically downloaded to your machine and installed before TPRS starts.  Java webstart is part of the Java JRE.

TPRS can be run when you are not connected to the internet, but of course Java webstart can't then check to see if a new version is available.
How do I install TPRS?
To install TPRS, you must have first installed the Java JRE.  Then click on this link to register to install TPRS on your computer.  With a 56 kb modem, the download will take about 10 minutes.  You will be asked whether or not you trust the developers (answer, "Always"), and also whether or not you want a TPRS icon on your desktop and a TPRS entry in your menu system (answer, "Yes").

An overview of TPRS