Purpose

TRUE Desktop is an alternative way to access TRUE using a dedicated desktop application instead of your web browser. It is designed for users who have an on-premise server at their location and want a native application experience.

Note: TRUE Desktop is best suited for companies with an on-premise server. Most users access TRUE through the web application, which requires no installation and works on any device.

Who Should Use TRUE Desktop

TRUE Desktop works best when the following conditions are met:

Requirement Details
On-Premise Server Your company hosts TRUE on an on-site server at your location.
Same Network Your computer is connected to the same local network as the server.
Frequent User You work in TRUE throughout the day and prefer a desktop application.
Windows Computer TRUE Desktop is available for Windows. Mac and ChromeOS users should use the web application.

TRUE Desktop vs Web Application

Both options provide full access to TRUE. Here's how they compare:

Feature TRUE Desktop Web Application
Access Method Dedicated desktop application Any web browser
Installation Requires installation No installation needed
Best For On-premise server users on local network All users, especially cloud-hosted
Multiple Windows Opens in separate windows Opens in browser tabs
Operating Systems Windows Windows, Mac, ChromeOS

Installation

Follow these steps to install TRUE Desktop on your Windows computer:

  1. Log in to TRUE using your web browser.
  2. Click the Gear Icon in the top header bar.
  3. Select System Information.
  4. Click the TRUE Desktop installer download link.
  5. Run the downloaded installer and follow the prompts.
  6. After installation, a shortcut will appear on your desktop.
  7. Double-click the shortcut to launch TRUE Desktop.
  8. Enter your TRUE Client ID when prompted.

On-Premise Server Requirements

For IT teams setting up an on-premise server, the following specifications are recommended:

Component Specification
Hardware Mac mini (current generation recommended) or equivalent
Memory 16 GB RAM minimum
Storage SSD drive for optimal performance
Network Static IP address, internal DNS routing configured
Firewall Port 5003 open for FileMaker communication

To begin setting up an on-premise server, please submit a support ticket. The TRUE team will coordinate the DNS transfer and guide you through the setup process.


Frequently Asked Questions

TRUE Desktop is a good choice if your company has an on-premise server and your computer is on the same local network. It provides a native desktop application experience for users who prefer that over a browser.

If your company uses cloud-hosted TRUE, or if you're unsure, the web application is the recommended option.

TRUE Desktop is available for Windows computers. Mac and ChromeOS users should use the web application, which provides full TRUE functionality through any modern web browser.

TRUE Desktop requires FileMaker version 20.1.12 or later. The installer available in System Information includes the correct version. If you need to update, download the latest installer from System Information.

The installer creates a desktop shortcut and places launcher files (TQB and TRUE files) in your Documents folder. These files store your Client ID and connection settings. If you no longer need TRUE Desktop, you can delete these files.

If you have trouble connecting to TRUE Desktop:

  1. Make sure you're connected to your office network.
  2. Verify your Client ID is entered correctly.
  3. Click the Connect button to try again.
  4. For IT: Verify port 5003 is open on your firewall for FileMaker communication.
  5. If issues continue, contact your IT administrator or submit a support ticket.

If you have questions or encounter issues with TRUE Desktop:

  1. Click the ? icon in TRUE's header bar.
  2. Select Submit Help Ticket.
  3. Describe your question or issue and submit the ticket.

If your company is interested in hosting TRUE on an on-premise server, please submit a support ticket. The TRUE team will discuss your requirements and guide you through the setup process.