ServiceSoftware Support.

Answers for the most common support questions we receive.

Please click each question as needed to expose the answer.

• Question 01 - WinSTIPS Tip Update and Core Update stopped working?

  We've made changes to ServiceSoftware.com; the Tip Update and Core Update features in your WinSTIPS 2.1 program are no longer working.

  WinSTIPS Tip Update 3.0 is a new program that replaces the Tip Update and Core Update features in WinSTIPS 2.1.

  You'll still use WinSTIPS 2.1 to view and enter tips. But you'll use the new program -- WinSTIPS Tip Update 3.0 -- to perform a Tip Update or Core Update.

  If WinSTIPS 2.1 is already installed on your computer and working, then here's what you should do:

  1. Review the step-by-step instructions to download, install, and use WinSTIPS Tip Update 3.0
  2. Use the Download Page to download and install WinSTIPS Tip Update 3.0.
• Question 02 - I need a WinSTIPS registration number.

  For fast service, please use our registration request form to request a WinSTIPS registration number.

• Question 03 - How do I change my WinSTIPS serial number?

  You cannot change a WinSTIPS serial number; a new WinSTIPS serial number is created during program installation. If you install WinSTIPS you'll likely get a new serial number and you will require a new Registration Number.

  Start WinSTIPS. WinSTIPS will display your 5-digit serial number and ask "Do you want to register?" Make note of your new 5-digit serial number and request a new Registration Number for the displayed serial number.

  For fast service, please use our registration request form to request a WinSTIPS registration number.

• Question 04 - Does WinSTIPS work with Windows XP?

  Yes, but only if your Windows XP computer is relatively up to date.

  Please click here to read more about using WinSTIPS with Windows XP.

• Question 05 - How do I submit my tips for Subscription Credit?

  You can submit your tips for WinSTIPS Subscription Credit.

  Click this link to read more about the settings and steps to submit your tips.

  Click this link to read more about receiving WinSTIPS Subscription Credits.

• Question 06 - How do I back up my WinSTIPS database?

  Protect your investment: It is your responsibility to back up your tips database! You must back up the database file named STIP_BE.MDB.

  Keep in mind that Windows, by default, hides folders such as the ProgramData folder in Windows 7 and newer. If you cannot see the ProgramData folder then you may need to choose the option in Windows Explorer to View Hidden Items.

  By default, Windows hides file extensions such as .MDB. If you cannot see the file extensions (i.e. you see one or more files named STIP_BE, but do not see STIP_BE.MDB) then you may need to choose the option in Windows Explorer to View File Name Extensions.

  The location of the database file named STIP_BE.MDB depends on your Windows operating system. Here is where to find the database file named STIP_BE.MDB:

  • Windows 7/8/10: C:\ProgramData\ServiceSoftware\WinSTIPS
  • Windows Vista: C:\ProgramData\ServiceSoftware\WinSTIPS
  • Windows XP: C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\ServiceSoftware\WinSTIPS
  • Windows 98: C:\Windows\All Users\Application Data\ServiceSoftware\WinSTIPS
  • Very, very old versions of WinSTIPS: C:\Program Files\ServiceSoftware\WinSTIPS
• Question 07 - Where are the files for WinSERV?

  WinSERV Service Management software version 1.x is no longer available for sale and WinSERV 1.x files are made available only as a reference (back up) for current licensees of the WinSERV program.

  Click here to download the files.

  Please protect your investment by backing up your WinSERV database and files.

• Question 08 - Where are the files for SSParts?

  SSParts Parts Management software version 1.x is no longer available for sale and SSParts 1.x files are made available only as a reference (back up) for current licensees of the SSParts program.

  Click here to download the files.

  Please protect your investment by backing up your SSParts database and files.