Since the introduction of Windows 10, Gammill has recommended against utilizing Windows 10 with the Statler system.
We have supported the use of Windows 10 for use with CreativeStudio in Stand-Alone Mode (SAM), but not when connected to a Stitcher. The reason for these recommendations is based on communications between Windows 10 and various Microsoft servers.
Windows 10 added Cortana and other applications within the operating system that continually communicate with various Microsoft servers on the internet. On a SAM system, this communication is not an issue. However, on computers connected to the Stitcher, we have found that this communication can disrupt communications between the PC and the Galil controller. As a result, we have recommended against the use of Windows 10 with a Stitcher.
Gammill is not the only industrial user of Windows that has experienced this issue. Many other industrial manufacturers, such as CNC machines, have had similar issues. As a result, Microsoft has released a special industrial version of Windows 10 that eliminates this communication with Microsoft servers. We have tested this new industrial version and found no degradation in communication performance compared to a Windows 8 PC. The changes in communications with their servers also has the side effect of allowing Microsoft to make the version more secure – they tout that this is the most secure version of Windows ever.
Therefore, beginning April 3, 2017 genuine Gammill computers will have this industrial version of Windows 10 installed. This version of Windows is not available through the regular Windows 10 updates, etc. like the consumer versions of Windows 10. Microsoft requires that the industrial version must be installed directly by an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) such as Gammill. As a result, we are unable to upgrade existing Gammill computer running Windows 7 or Windows 8 to the industrial Windows 10. Hwever, there is no need to upgrade your Windows 7 or Windows 8 computer to Windows 10. No advantages in function of your machine are gained by the operating system upgrade. If you would like a computer with Windows 10 we encourage you to check with your dealer about trading in your existing Gammill computer towards the purchase of a new one.