Setting Up An Ingest Center

Introduction

An Ingest Center is where hard drives filled with images of genealogically valuable records, contractually agreed upon between FamilySearch and a Record Custodian, are uploaded into the FamilySearch system. These center locations are identified by the multiarea to meet the needs of the camera capture within the area. The work at the center is performed by missionaries and/or volunteers. The center is supported by Multi-Area Project Specialists and Operational Subject Matter Experts and Engineers.

Checklist

The following checklist has been developed to assist in the creation and setup of an Ingest Center. A PDF copy of this checklist can be downloaded here in English, Spanish, or Portuguese. Additional languages can be made available upon request.

Environment

Identify location: church building, area office, archive, etc.

A Room with good ventilation that can be locked would be preferable; however, if computers are specifically dedicated with logins and passwords, and in a defined workspace away from foot traffic this could be acceptable

Tables – enough for computers, monitor and workspace

Chairs—ergonomically supportive for continual use, ability to move easily (rolling)

Electrical outlets for each computer; extension surge protectors

Fans as needed to keep equipment cooled

Data Requirements

Minimum is 100MB- 1GB download, with minimum 50MB upload speed.  For best results this line should be a designated line for just the Ingest center.

Ethernet connection with a minimum of a CAT 6 ethernet cable

ICS involvement for Firewall protection, switches, etc. (Kelly Norman, Kelly.Norman@churhofjesuschrist.org) to ensure corporate privacy standards and system protection

Computer Specifications

Minimum of two (2) Microsoft Windows computers with at least two (2) USB ports each (the purchase of a multi-port hub could meet these needs)

CPU should be comparable to the amount of data to be processed; Minimum requirement is an Intel Core I7

Minimum RAM (memory) 8GB/8USB; Storage 256 GB M.2. PCle SSD

One (1) monitor

Adaptors/cord connections between the computer and hard drive should be at minimum an Eseta to USB3; 1 per port (suggest extra be purchased for back up)

Minimum of two (2) Microsoft Windows computers with at least two (2) USB ports each (the purchase of a multi-port hub could meet these needs)

Personnel

At least two (2) individuals and/or couples that are computer “wise”

Ingest should run six (5) days a week to ensure all HDs are uploaded in a timely manner

Set-up of Software and Training

Contact Dawn Osborne (osbornedr@churchofjesuschrist.org) for initial set-up and training of Multi-Area SME and Ingest operators

Links for setup and instructions can be found at: https://www.familysearch.org/en/fieldops/infinity-instruction