QIS is a 32-bit Microsoft Windows software written in C++ and uses Microsoft SQL Server 2000 or above databases.

ProcessLink is the QIS interface management system that controls the device drivers that link QIS to a variety of external data sources. With ProcessLink users can transfer data between QIS and other systems such as process control and business systems. It is designed to run attended on any network station or Server and typically connects to the source systems via network or serial connections.

LabLink is the QIS bench instrument interface solution for laboratories. LabLink comprises Operator Interface Units that connect the instrument with a bar code reader or simple terminal that the operator uses to identify the source of sample being tested. A multi-drop RS485 network is then used to connect the OIUs to the PC that is hosting the LabLink software. One OIU is required per instrument and one master unit is required per network. LabLink software runs as a background task on the PC so that it can be used for QIS or any other application software at the same time.

A minimum server configuration would be a Pentium 1Ghz processor, 512Mb RAM and a 4Gb SCSI data drive.

A typical QIS Client PC would have a Pentium 400Mhz processor, 128Mb RAM and minimum XGA Graphics (1024 x 768) capability with a 17-inch monitor, running Windows NT Workstation 4, Windows 2000. QIS can also be run in thin client environments such as Windows Terminal Server and Citrix Metaframe. Where clients are installed in a hostile or dirty environment the use of rugged industrial PCs is recommended. Where it is impractical to position or connect a client to the network, handheld devices can be used that upload data to QIS.

The QIS database is industry standard using MSSQL 2000 or above, protected from unauthorised access and change but readily available for query from other applications through Open Database Connectivity (ODBC). This means QIS data is accessible directly to most Microsoft Office applications, Report Writers, etc.

QIS 24x7 support is usually conducted through remote dial-in. Typically, a password protected RAS or PcAnywhere™ connection is configured for QISoft support.