Clearing Sierra Jarcache

Every time you log into Sierra, the desktop client that you are running refers to a file on the Sierra server to confirm that your client is up to date and running the correct configuration. This information comes over in the jarfiles that get stored locally on your computer. During this check the Sierra client needs to have very stable communication back to the Sierra server, otherwise, it can have trouble downloading the correct jars and may end up with duplicates of some files, and missing other files. 

 Whenever the client and the server are not in sync you can see weird issues like loan rules not applying correctly or fields in records displaying in the incorrect order. However, it can be anything anywhere in Sierra. Sometimes, you can get lucky and have extra jarfiles and not notice issues. Marmot staff computers have a direct connection to the server instead of going over the internet, so we get exactly what the server has for files. This means that Marmot can verify how many files should be in the jarcache.

Sierra 6.0 should have 79 files in the jarcache. However, it is possible to have 79 files and still have a problem, but if you have more or fewer, you should refresh.

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Things to consider when you are starting your Sierra sessions:

  • Wifi can cause instability between the client and server causing a corruption of the jarcache.

    • Wired internet connections are preferred at least until you are logged in.

  • Is your internet connection stable in general?

    • The connection between the client and server is very fragile. Minor blips in your internet connection can cause problems in the jarcache.

  • Have you cleaned out your jarcache since we did a Sierra upgrade?

    • Jarfiles change with each new Sierra upgrade.

  • Possibility of a VPN?

    • We have been successful with other sites creating a stable connection to Sierra by implementing a VPN. If problems continue to occur for you this could be worth looking into.

It doesn’t hurt to check your jarcache periodically if you can remember. Most times we instruct folks to check it when issues are occurring as the first step to troubleshooting.

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Jarcache FAQS

What is the Sierra jarcache?
The Sierra jarcache runs Sierra. The jarcache contains a specified number of files.  However, this number can change anytime there is a Sierra upgrade.  If you want to know the exact number of files, please contact Marmot.

Why would I clear the jarcache? 

The jarcache should be cleared for the following reasons:

  • If Sierra is running slower than normal.

  • If you have trouble logging into Sierra.

  • Trouble with Sierra functions that used to work normally.

  • When there is a problem with Sierra, but it only happens on a certain computer no matter who logs into Sierra.

Will I need to do this for everyone's Sierra login?
No. Clearing the jarcache is related to the computer and not the Sierra login. Once the jarcache is cleared anyone can log into Sierra.

  • Note: Expresslane self-checks are the same as regular Sierra desktop stations, and need to have their jarcache checked periodically.

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How to clear Sierra Jarcache on a PC

  1. Make sure you are completely out of the Sierra program

  2. Click on your file folder to get to your Local Disk C:
    Note: For older computers, you may need to go to MyComputer or Computer to see your C: Drive

  3. Double click on the folder Sierra Desktop App

  4. Double click on the folder jarcache

  5. Use Ctrl-A to highlight all the files

  6. Right-click to bring up the option to delete

  7. Click delete

    1. This should clear all the files

  8. Open Sierra

    1. It may take a few minutes longer for the jars to load

  9. Login to Sierra

  10. Contact Marmot if you have questions marmothelp@marmot.org

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How to clear Sierra Jarcache on a Mac

  1. Make sure you are completely out of the Sierra program

  2. Open your Applications folder

  3. Double click on the folder Sierra Desktop App

  4. Double click on the folder jarcache

  5. Use Command-A to highlight all the files

  6. Right-click to bring up the option menu

  7. Click on Move to Trash

  8. Open Sierra

  9. It may take a few minutes longer for the jars to load

  10. Login to Sierra

  11. Contact Marmot if you have questions marmothelp@marmot.org

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How to clear Sierra Jarcache Video

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