diff --git a/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram/INSTALLATION.md b/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram/INSTALLATION.md
index 0952760..64a34f5 100644
--- a/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram/INSTALLATION.md
+++ b/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram/INSTALLATION.md
@@ -74,10 +74,41 @@ File: TankAlarm092025-Test.ino
 
 ## Software Configuration
 
-### Step 1: Configure the Code
+### Step 1: Configure SD Card (REQUIRED)
+1. **Create SD Card Configuration**:
+   - Copy `tank_config_example.txt` to SD card as `tank_config.txt`
+   - Edit `tank_config.txt` with your specific settings
+
+2. **Critical Settings (REQUIRED)**:
+   ```
+   # Update these values for your setup - ALL SETTINGS REQUIRED
+   SITE_NAME=Your Tank Farm Name
+   TANK_NUMBER=1
+   HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY=your_actual_device_key_here
+   ALARM_PHONE_PRIMARY=+15551234567
+   ALARM_PHONE_SECONDARY=+15559876543
+   DAILY_REPORT_PHONE=+15555551234
+   ```
+
+3. **Tank Physical Configuration**:
+   ```
+   TANK_HEIGHT_INCHES=120
+   HIGH_ALARM_INCHES=100
+   LOW_ALARM_INCHES=12
+   ```
+
+4. **Insert SD Card**: Place configured SD card in device before powering on
+
+**IMPORTANT**: The device will not start without a properly configured `tank_config.txt` file on the SD card. The device will halt with error messages if:
+- SD card is not inserted
+- `tank_config.txt` file is missing
+- HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY is not set
+- ALARM_PHONE_PRIMARY is not set
+
+### Step 2: Hardware Configuration (config.h)
 1. **Copy Configuration Template**:
-   - Copy `config_template.h` to `config.h`
-   - Edit `config.h` with your specific settings
+   - Copy `config_template.h` to `config.h` (only if missing)
+   - This file now only contains hardware-specific constants
 
 2. **Select Tank Level Sensor Type**:
    ```cpp
@@ -85,17 +116,6 @@ File: TankAlarm092025-Test.ino
    #define SENSOR_TYPE DIGITAL_FLOAT
    ```
 
-3. **Update Configuration Values**:
-   ```cpp
-   // Replace with your actual Hologram.io device key
-   #define HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY "your_device_key_here"
-   
-   // Update with your phone numbers (include country code)
-   #define ALARM_PHONE_PRIMARY "+12223334444"
-   #define ALARM_PHONE_SECONDARY "+15556667777"
-   #define DAILY_REPORT_PHONE "+18889990000"
-   ```
-
 4. **Configure Sensor-Specific Settings**:
 
    **For Digital Float Switch (SENSOR_TYPE = DIGITAL_FLOAT)**:
@@ -146,8 +166,8 @@ File: TankAlarm092025-Test.ino
    #define DAILY_REPORT_HOURS 24
    ```
 
-### Step 2: Update Main Code
-1. In `TankAlarm092025-Hologram.ino`, change this line:
+### Step 3: Update Main Code
+1. In `TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram.ino`, change this line:
    ```cpp
    // Change from:
    #include "config_template.h"
@@ -155,7 +175,7 @@ File: TankAlarm092025-Test.ino
    #include "config.h"
    ```
 
-### Step 3: Upload Code
+### Step 4: Upload Code
 1. Connect MKR NB 1500 to computer via USB
 2. Select correct board: Tools → Board → Arduino MKR NB 1500
 3. Select correct port: Tools → Port → (your port)
@@ -260,10 +280,14 @@ File: TankAlarm092025-Test.ino
 - **Annually**: Clean enclosure, inspect connections
 
 ### Updating Configuration
-1. Connect to computer via USB
-2. Modify config.h as needed
-3. Re-upload sketch
-4. Test new configuration
+**NEW APPROACH - Field Configurable:**
+1. Power off device
+2. Remove SD card from device
+3. Edit `tank_config.txt` on computer
+4. Insert SD card back into device
+5. Power on device - new configuration will be loaded and validated
+
+**CRITICAL**: Device will not start without valid SD card configuration.
 
 ### Data Retrieval
 1. Remove SD card from system
diff --git a/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram.ino b/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram.ino
index aaf0ce2..5479d8b 100644
--- a/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram.ino
+++ b/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram.ino
@@ -195,44 +195,44 @@ bool powerFailureRecovery = false;
 #endif
 String logFileName = LOG_FILE_NAME;
 
-// SD Card configuration variables (loaded from SD card config file)
-String siteLocationName = SITE_LOCATION_NAME;
-int tankNumber = TANK_NUMBER;
-float inchesPerUnit = INCHES_PER_UNIT;
-float tankHeightInches = TANK_HEIGHT_INCHES;
-float highAlarmInches = HIGH_ALARM_INCHES;
-float lowAlarmInches = LOW_ALARM_INCHES;
-bool digitalHighAlarm = DIGITAL_HIGH_ALARM;
-bool digitalLowAlarm = DIGITAL_LOW_ALARM;
-float largeDecreaseThreshold = LARGE_DECREASE_THRESHOLD_INCHES;
-int largeDecreaseWaitHours = LARGE_DECREASE_WAIT_HOURS;
-
-// Network and communication configuration (loaded from SD card)
-String hologramDeviceKey = HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY;
-String serverDeviceKey = SERVER_DEVICE_KEY;  // Server's device ID for remote commands
-String alarmPhonePrimary = ALARM_PHONE_PRIMARY;
-String alarmPhoneSecondary = ALARM_PHONE_SECONDARY;
-String dailyReportPhone = DAILY_REPORT_PHONE;
-String hologramAPN = HOLOGRAM_APN;
-
-// Timing configuration (loaded from SD card)
-int sleepIntervalHours = SLEEP_INTERVAL_HOURS;
-int dailyReportHours = DAILY_REPORT_HOURS;
-String dailyReportTime = DAILY_REPORT_TIME;
+// SD Card configuration variables (loaded from SD card config file - REQUIRED)
+String siteLocationName = "Unknown Site";
+int tankNumber = 1;
+float inchesPerUnit = 1.0;
+float tankHeightInches = 120.0;
+float highAlarmInches = 100.0;
+float lowAlarmInches = 12.0;
+bool digitalHighAlarm = true;
+bool digitalLowAlarm = false;
+float largeDecreaseThreshold = 24.0;
+int largeDecreaseWaitHours = 2;
+
+// Network and communication configuration (loaded from SD card - REQUIRED)
+String hologramDeviceKey = "";
+String serverDeviceKey = "";  // Server's device ID for remote commands
+String alarmPhonePrimary = "";
+String alarmPhoneSecondary = "";
+String dailyReportPhone = "";
+String hologramAPN = "hologram";
+
+// Timing configuration (loaded from SD card - REQUIRED)
+int sleepIntervalHours = 1;
+int dailyReportHours = 24;
+String dailyReportTime = "05:00";
 
 // Time synchronization variables
 bool timeIsSynced = false;
 unsigned long lastTimeSyncMillis = 0;
 const unsigned long TIME_SYNC_INTERVAL_MS = 24 * 60 * 60 * 1000; // Sync once per day
 
-// Power management variables
+// Power management variables (loaded from SD card - REQUIRED)
 volatile bool wakeFromCellular = false;  // Flag set when woken by cellular data
 volatile int wakeReason = WAKE_REASON_TIMER;  // Reason for last wake
 unsigned long lastCellularCheck = 0;  // Last time we checked for cellular data
-bool deepSleepMode = DEEP_SLEEP_MODE;  // Whether to use deep sleep mode
-int shortSleepMinutes = SHORT_SLEEP_MINUTES;  // Short sleep duration for frequent checks
-int normalSleepHours = NORMAL_SLEEP_HOURS;    // Normal sleep duration between readings
-bool wakeOnPingEnabled = ENABLE_WAKE_ON_PING; // Wake on ping functionality
+bool deepSleepMode = false;  // Whether to use deep sleep mode
+int shortSleepMinutes = 10;  // Short sleep duration for frequent checks
+int normalSleepHours = 1;    // Normal sleep duration between readings
+bool wakeOnPingEnabled = true; // Wake on ping functionality
 
 // Height calibration system
 #define MAX_CALIBRATION_POINTS 10
@@ -270,16 +270,16 @@ void processSMSCommand(String command, String phoneNumber);
 void sendCalibrationSMS(String phoneNumber);
 float getCurrentSensorReading();
 
-// Network configuration (loaded from SD card)
-int connectionTimeoutMs = CONNECTION_TIMEOUT_MS;
-int smsRetryAttempts = SMS_RETRY_ATTEMPTS;
+// Network configuration (loaded from SD card - REQUIRED)
+int connectionTimeoutMs = 30000;
+int smsRetryAttempts = 3;
 
 // Log file names (loaded from SD card)
-String hourlyLogFile = SD_HOURLY_LOG_FILE;
-String dailyLogFile = SD_DAILY_LOG_FILE;
-String alarmLogFile = SD_ALARM_LOG_FILE;
-String decreaseLogFile = SD_DECREASE_LOG_FILE;
-String reportLogFile = SD_REPORT_LOG_FILE;
+String hourlyLogFile = "hourly_log.txt";
+String dailyLogFile = "daily_log.txt";
+String alarmLogFile = "alarm_log.txt";
+String decreaseLogFile = "decrease_log.txt";
+String reportLogFile = "report_log.txt";
 
 void setup() {
   // Initialize serial communication for debugging
@@ -1008,22 +1008,27 @@ String getCurrentTimestamp() {
 // Load configuration from SD card
 void loadSDCardConfiguration() {
   if (!SD.begin(SD_CARD_CS_PIN)) {
-    logEvent("Failed to initialize SD card for configuration loading");
-    return;
+    Serial.println("CRITICAL ERROR: Failed to initialize SD card for client configuration loading");
+    Serial.println("SD card configuration is REQUIRED for operation");
+    while (true) {
+      // Halt execution - SD card config is required
+      delay(5000);
+      Serial.println("Please insert SD card with tank_config.txt and restart");
+    }
   }
   
   File configFile = SD.open(SD_CONFIG_FILE);
   if (!configFile) {
-#ifdef ENABLE_SERIAL_DEBUG
-    if (ENABLE_SERIAL_DEBUG) Serial.println("Config file not found, using defaults");
-#endif
-    logEvent("Config file not found, using defaults from config.h");
-    return;
+    Serial.println("CRITICAL ERROR: Client config file not found on SD card");
+    Serial.println("tank_config.txt is REQUIRED for operation");
+    while (true) {
+      // Halt execution - SD card config is required
+      delay(5000);
+      Serial.println("Please create tank_config.txt on SD card and restart");
+    }
   }
   
-#ifdef ENABLE_SERIAL_DEBUG
-  if (ENABLE_SERIAL_DEBUG) Serial.println("Loading configuration from SD card...");
-#endif
+  Serial.println("Loading client configuration from SD card...");
   
   while (configFile.available()) {
     String line = configFile.readStringUntil('\n');
@@ -1109,15 +1114,28 @@ void loadSDCardConfiguration() {
   
   configFile.close();
   
-  String configMsg = "Configuration loaded - Site: " + siteLocationName + 
+  // Validate critical configuration
+  if (hologramDeviceKey.length() == 0 || hologramDeviceKey == "your_device_key_here") {
+    Serial.println("CRITICAL ERROR: HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY not configured in tank_config.txt");
+    while (true) {
+      delay(5000);
+      Serial.println("Please set HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY in tank_config.txt and restart");
+    }
+  }
+  
+  if (alarmPhonePrimary.length() == 0 || alarmPhonePrimary == "+12223334444") {
+    Serial.println("CRITICAL ERROR: ALARM_PHONE_PRIMARY not configured in tank_config.txt");
+    while (true) {
+      delay(5000);
+      Serial.println("Please set ALARM_PHONE_PRIMARY in tank_config.txt and restart");
+    }
+  }
+  
+  String configMsg = "Client configuration loaded successfully - Site: " + siteLocationName + 
                     ", Tank: " + String(tankNumber) + 
                     ", Height: " + String(tankHeightInches) + "in" +
                     ", Daily Report: " + dailyReportTime;
-  logEvent(configMsg);
-  
-#ifdef ENABLE_SERIAL_DEBUG
-  if (ENABLE_SERIAL_DEBUG) Serial.println(configMsg);
-#endif
+  Serial.println(configMsg);
 }
 
 // Convert sensor reading to inches
diff --git a/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram/config_template.h b/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram/config_template.h
index 4802ac9..a913d4b 100644
--- a/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram/config_template.h
+++ b/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram/config_template.h
@@ -1,32 +1,18 @@
 //
 // Configuration file for Tank Alarm 092025
-// Copy this file and rename to config.h, then update with your specific values
+// This file now contains only essential compile-time constants
+// Most configuration is now loaded from tank_config.txt on SD card
 //
 
 #ifndef CONFIG_H
 #define CONFIG_H
 
-// Hologram.io Configuration
-#define HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY "your_device_key_here"  // Replace with your actual device key
-#define SERVER_DEVICE_KEY "server_device_key_here"  // Server's Hologram device ID for remote commands
-#define HOLOGRAM_APN "hologram"                     // Hologram.io APN (usually stays "hologram")
-
-// Phone Numbers for Notifications (include country code, e.g., +1 for US)
-#define ALARM_PHONE_PRIMARY "+12223334444"     // Primary emergency contact
-#define ALARM_PHONE_SECONDARY "+15556667777"   // Secondary emergency contact  
-#define DAILY_REPORT_PHONE "+18889990000"      // Daily report recipient
-
-// Timing Configuration (in hours)
-#define SLEEP_INTERVAL_HOURS 1          // How often to check tank level (default: 1 hour)
-#define DAILY_REPORT_HOURS 24           // How often to send daily report (default: 24 hours)
-#define DAILY_REPORT_TIME "05:00"       // Time of day for daily report in HH:MM format (24-hour)
-
-// Pin Configuration (adjust if using different pins)
+// Pin Configuration (hardware specific - cannot be changed at runtime)
 #define TANK_LEVEL_PIN 7               // Tank level sensor input pin
 #define RELAY_CONTROL_PIN 5            // Relay output control pin
 #define SD_CARD_CS_PIN 4               // SD card chip select pin (works for both MKR SD PROTO and MKR ETH shields)
 
-// Tank Level Sensor Configuration
+// Sensor Type Configuration (hardware specific)
 // Sensor Types: DIGITAL_FLOAT, ANALOG_VOLTAGE, CURRENT_LOOP
 #define SENSOR_TYPE DIGITAL_FLOAT      // Type of tank level sensor
 
@@ -35,75 +21,34 @@
 #define SENSOR_DEBOUNCE_MS 100         // Debounce delay for sensor reading
 
 // Analog Voltage Sensor Configuration (SENSOR_TYPE = ANALOG_VOLTAGE)
-// For Dwyer 626 series ratiometric 0.5-4.5V pressure sensors
-// Can use A1-A4 pins on MKR RELAY shield with convenient screw terminals
 #define ANALOG_SENSOR_PIN A1           // Analog input pin for voltage sensor (A1, A2, A3, or A4)
 #define VOLTAGE_MIN 0.5                // Minimum sensor voltage (V)
 #define VOLTAGE_MAX 4.5                // Maximum sensor voltage (V)
 #define TANK_EMPTY_VOLTAGE 0.5         // Voltage when tank is empty (V)
 #define TANK_FULL_VOLTAGE 4.5          // Voltage when tank is full (V)
-// Alarm thresholds are now configured in inches using HIGH_ALARM_INCHES and LOW_ALARM_INCHES
-// See tank configuration section above for inches-based alarm settings
-
-// Multiple Analog Sensor Support (Optional - for multiple tank monitoring)
-// Uncomment and configure additional sensors if needed
-// #define ENABLE_MULTI_ANALOG_SENSORS true
-// #define ANALOG_SENSOR_PIN_2 A2        // Second analog sensor
-// #define ANALOG_SENSOR_PIN_3 A3        // Third analog sensor  
-// #define ANALOG_SENSOR_PIN_4 A4        // Fourth analog sensor
 
 // Current Loop Sensor Configuration (SENSOR_TYPE = CURRENT_LOOP)
-// For 4-20mA sensors using NCD.io 4-channel current loop I2C module
 #define I2C_CURRENT_LOOP_ADDRESS 0x48  // I2C address of NCD.io module
 #define CURRENT_LOOP_CHANNEL 0         // Channel number (0-3) on NCD.io module
 #define CURRENT_MIN 4.0                // Minimum current (mA)
 #define CURRENT_MAX 20.0               // Maximum current (mA)
 #define TANK_EMPTY_CURRENT 4.0         // Current when tank is empty (mA)
 #define TANK_FULL_CURRENT 20.0         // Current when tank is full (mA)
-// Alarm thresholds are now configured in inches using HIGH_ALARM_INCHES and LOW_ALARM_INCHES
-// See tank configuration section above for inches-based alarm settings
-
-// Logging Configuration
-#define LOG_FILE_NAME "tanklog.txt"    // SD card log file name
-#define ENABLE_SERIAL_DEBUG true       // Enable/disable serial output for debugging
 
-// Network Configuration
-#define CONNECTION_TIMEOUT_MS 30000    // Network connection timeout (30 seconds)
-#define SMS_RETRY_ATTEMPTS 3           // Number of retry attempts for SMS sending
+// System Buffer Sizes and Hardware Limits (memory allocation at compile time)
+#define MAX_CALIBRATION_POINTS 10
+#define CALIBRATION_FILE_NAME "calibration.txt"
 
-// Power Management
-#define ENABLE_LOW_POWER_MODE true     // Enable low power sleep modes
+// Network Configuration (timeouts and hardware limits)
 #define WAKE_CHECK_DURATION_MS 5000    // How long to stay awake for each check
-#define SHORT_SLEEP_MINUTES 10         // Short sleep duration for active monitoring (minutes)
-#define NORMAL_SLEEP_HOURS 1           // Normal sleep duration between readings (hours)
-#define ENABLE_WAKE_ON_PING true       // Enable wake-on-ping functionality
-#define DEEP_SLEEP_MODE false          // Use deep sleep mode for maximum power savings
 
-// Tank Configuration for Inches/Feet Measurements
-#define TANK_NUMBER 1                  // Tank number identifier (1-99)
-#define SITE_LOCATION_NAME "Your Site Name"  // Site location name for reports
-#define INCHES_PER_UNIT 1.0            // Inches per sensor unit (calibration factor)
-#define TANK_HEIGHT_INCHES 120         // Total tank height in inches
-
-// Alarm Thresholds in Inches/Feet (for analog/current loop sensors)
-#define HIGH_ALARM_INCHES 100          // High alarm threshold in inches
-#define LOW_ALARM_INCHES 12            // Low alarm threshold in inches
-
-// Digital Float Switch Alarm Configuration (for DIGITAL_FLOAT sensors)
-#define DIGITAL_HIGH_ALARM true        // Enable high alarm for digital float
-#define DIGITAL_LOW_ALARM false        // Enable low alarm for digital float
-
-// Large Decrease Detection
-#define ENABLE_LARGE_DECREASE_DETECTION true  // Enable detection of large decreases
-#define LARGE_DECREASE_THRESHOLD_INCHES 24    // Threshold for large decrease in inches
-#define LARGE_DECREASE_WAIT_HOURS 2           // Hours to wait before logging large decrease
+// Logging Configuration (system limits)
+#define ENABLE_SERIAL_DEBUG true       // Enable/disable serial output for debugging
+#define LOG_FILE_NAME "tanklog.txt"    // SD card log file name
 
 // SD Card Configuration Files
 #define SD_CONFIG_FILE "tank_config.txt"      // SD card configuration file
-#define SD_HOURLY_LOG_FILE "hourly_log.txt"   // Hourly data log file
-#define SD_DAILY_LOG_FILE "daily_log.txt"     // Daily report log file
-#define SD_ALARM_LOG_FILE "alarm_log.txt"     // Alarm event log file
-#define SD_DECREASE_LOG_FILE "decrease_log.txt" // Large decrease log file
-#define SD_REPORT_LOG_FILE "report_log.txt"     // Daily report transmission log file
+
+// No fallback defaults - SD card configuration is required
 
 #endif // CONFIG_H
\ No newline at end of file
diff --git a/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram/tank_config_example.txt b/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram/tank_config_example.txt
index 1d1ece1..c7818cc 100644
--- a/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram/tank_config_example.txt
+++ b/TankAlarm-092025-Client-Hologram/tank_config_example.txt
@@ -1,17 +1,18 @@
-# Tank Alarm Configuration File
+# Tank Alarm Configuration File (REQUIRED)
 # Copy this file to SD card as tank_config.txt and modify values as needed
 # Lines starting with # are comments and will be ignored
+# ALL SETTINGS ARE REQUIRED - Tank will not start without valid configuration
 
-# Site Information
+# Site Information (REQUIRED)
 SITE_NAME=Example Tank Farm
 TANK_NUMBER=1
 
-# Hologram.io Configuration
+# Hologram.io Configuration (REQUIRED)
 HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY=abc123def456ghi789
 SERVER_DEVICE_KEY=xyz987uvw654rst321
 HOLOGRAM_APN=hologram
 
-# Phone Numbers for Notifications (include country code)
+# Phone Numbers for Notifications (REQUIRED - include country code)
 ALARM_PHONE_PRIMARY=+15551234567
 ALARM_PHONE_SECONDARY=+15559876543
 DAILY_REPORT_PHONE=+15555551234
diff --git a/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram/INSTALLATION.md b/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram/INSTALLATION.md
index acdb8f9..2d57d07 100644
--- a/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram/INSTALLATION.md
+++ b/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram/INSTALLATION.md
@@ -84,27 +84,34 @@ Install these libraries via **Tools → Manage Libraries**:
 3. Open `TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram.ino` in Arduino IDE
 
 ### Configure Settings
-1. **Copy Configuration Template**:
+
+#### SD Card Configuration (REQUIRED)
+The server now requires configuration via SD card. Fallback to compile-time defaults has been removed.
+
+1. **Copy Configuration Template to SD Card**:
    ```bash
-   cp server_config_template.h server_config.h
+   cp server_config.txt /path/to/sd/card/server_config.txt
    ```
 
-2. **Edit Configuration** (`server_config.h`):
-   ```cpp
-   // Update these values for your setup
-   #define HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY "your_actual_device_key_here"
-   #define DAILY_EMAIL_RECIPIENT "+15551234567@vtext.com" 
-   #define DAILY_EMAIL_HOUR 6  // 6 AM for daily reports
+2. **Edit SD Card Configuration** (`server_config.txt` on SD card):
    ```
-
-3. **Network Configuration** (optional):
-   ```cpp
-   // Static IP settings (used if DHCP fails)
-   #define STATIC_IP_ADDRESS {192, 168, 1, 100}
-   #define STATIC_GATEWAY {192, 168, 1, 1}
-   #define STATIC_SUBNET {255, 255, 255, 0}
+   # Update these values for your setup - ALL SETTINGS REQUIRED
+   HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY=your_actual_device_key_here
+   DAILY_EMAIL_RECIPIENT=+15551234567@vtext.com
+   DAILY_EMAIL_HOUR=6
+   SERVER_LOCATION=Your Location Name
    ```
 
+3. **Insert SD Card**: Place configured SD card in server before powering on
+
+**IMPORTANT**: The server will not start without a properly configured `server_config.txt` file on the SD card. The device will halt with error messages if:
+- SD card is not inserted
+- `server_config.txt` file is missing
+- HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY is not set or is still the default value
+
+#### Legacy Compile-Time Configuration (No Longer Used)
+The `server_config.h` file now only contains essential hardware constants. Configuration values are no longer read from this file.
+
 ### Upload Code to Device
 1. **Connect Hardware**:
    - Connect MKR NB 1500 to computer via USB
@@ -261,16 +268,41 @@ Enable detailed logging by setting in `server_config.h`:
 
 ### Common Configuration Files
 
-#### Example server_config.h
+#### Example server_config.txt (SD Card Configuration - REQUIRED)
+```
+# Tank Alarm Server SD Card Configuration - ALL VALUES REQUIRED
+HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY=1234567890abcdef
+DAILY_EMAIL_RECIPIENT=+15551234567@vtext.com
+DAILY_EMAIL_HOUR=6
+DAILY_EMAIL_MINUTE=0
+SERVER_LOCATION=Main Office
+ENABLE_SERIAL_DEBUG=true
+STATIC_IP_ADDRESS=192,168,1,100
+STATIC_GATEWAY=192,168,1,1
+STATIC_SUBNET=255,255,255,0
+```
+
+#### server_config.h (Hardware Constants Only)
 ```cpp
-#define HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY "1234567890abcdef"
-#define DAILY_EMAIL_RECIPIENT "+15551234567@vtext.com"
-#define DAILY_EMAIL_HOUR 6
-#define DAILY_EMAIL_MINUTE 0
-#define STATIC_IP_ADDRESS {192, 168, 1, 100}
-#define ENABLE_SERIAL_DEBUG true
+// Only hardware-specific constants remain
+#define SD_CARD_CS_PIN 4
+#define CONNECTION_TIMEOUT_MS 30000
+#define WEB_SERVER_PORT 80
+#define MESSAGE_BUFFER_SIZE 1024
+// No fallback defaults - SD card configuration is required
 ```
 
+#### Field Configuration Updates (CRITICAL)
+To update configuration in the field:
+1. **Power off** the server (REQUIRED)
+2. **Remove SD card** from server
+3. **Edit** `server_config.txt` on a computer
+4. **Verify** all required settings are present
+5. **Insert SD card** back into server
+6. **Power on** server - configuration will be validated and loaded
+
+**WARNING**: Server will not start without valid SD card configuration.
+
 #### Hologram Device Key Location
 Find your device key in the Hologram.io dashboard:
 1. Login to dashboard.hologram.io
diff --git a/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram/SD_CARD_CONFIG.md b/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram/SD_CARD_CONFIG.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..c5faebd
--- /dev/null
+++ b/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram/SD_CARD_CONFIG.md
@@ -0,0 +1,102 @@
+# SD Card Configuration for Tank Alarm Server (REQUIRED)
+
+The Tank Alarm Server requires configuration via SD card. The server will not start without a properly configured SD card.
+
+## Quick Start
+
+1. Copy `server_config.txt` to the root of your SD card
+2. Edit the configuration values as needed
+3. Insert SD card into server and power on
+
+**CRITICAL**: The server will halt with error messages if the SD card or configuration file is missing.
+
+## Configuration File Format
+
+The configuration file uses a simple `KEY=VALUE` format:
+
+```
+# Comments start with #
+HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY=your_device_key_here
+DAILY_EMAIL_HOUR=6
+SERVER_LOCATION=Main Office
+```
+
+## Available Configuration Options
+
+### Required Settings
+- `HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY`: Your Hologram.io device key
+- `DAILY_EMAIL_RECIPIENT`: Email address for daily reports
+- `SERVER_LOCATION`: Descriptive location name
+
+### Network Settings
+- `STATIC_IP_ADDRESS`: Static IP (format: 192,168,1,100)
+- `STATIC_GATEWAY`: Gateway IP (format: 192,168,1,1)  
+- `STATIC_SUBNET`: Subnet mask (format: 255,255,255,0)
+- `ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_1` through `ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_6`: MAC address bytes
+
+### Email/Notification Settings
+- `DAILY_EMAIL_HOUR`: Hour to send daily report (0-23)
+- `DAILY_EMAIL_MINUTE`: Minute to send daily report (0-59)
+- `ALARM_EMAIL_RECIPIENT`: Email for alarm notifications
+- `USE_HOLOGRAM_EMAIL`: Use Hologram API for email (true/false)
+
+### System Settings
+- `ENABLE_SERIAL_DEBUG`: Enable debug output (true/false)
+- `WEB_PAGE_REFRESH_SECONDS`: Web page auto-refresh interval
+- `MAX_REPORTS_IN_MEMORY`: Maximum reports to store in memory (maximum: 100, will be capped if exceeded)
+- `DAYS_TO_KEEP_LOGS`: Days to retain log files
+
+### Monthly Reports
+- `MONTHLY_REPORT_ENABLED`: Enable monthly reports (true/false)
+- `MONTHLY_REPORT_DAY`: Day of month to generate report (1-28)
+- `MONTHLY_REPORT_HOUR`: Hour to generate report (0-23)
+
+## Field Updates
+
+To update configuration in the field:
+
+1. **Power off** the server
+2. **Remove SD card** from server
+3. **Edit** `server_config.txt` on a computer
+4. **Insert SD card** back into server
+5. **Power on** server - new configuration will be loaded
+
+## Fallback Behavior
+
+**NO FALLBACK**: If `server_config.txt` is not found on the SD card, the server will:
+- Display critical error messages on serial console
+- Halt execution and refuse to start
+- Require operator intervention to insert SD card with proper configuration
+
+The server assumes SD card configuration will always be available and does not fall back to compile-time defaults.
+
+## Troubleshooting
+
+### Configuration not loading
+- **CRITICAL**: Check that SD card is properly inserted and detected
+- **CRITICAL**: Check that file is named exactly `server_config.txt`
+- **CRITICAL**: Verify HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY is set and not the default placeholder
+- Check serial output for specific error messages
+- Ensure no extra spaces around `=` in config file
+- Server will halt execution if configuration is missing or invalid
+
+### Invalid values
+- Boolean values must be exactly `true` or `false`
+- IP addresses must use comma format: `192,168,1,100`
+- No quotes needed around string values
+- Comments must start with `#` at beginning of line
+
+## Example Complete Configuration
+
+```
+# Tank Alarm Server Configuration
+HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY=1234567890abcdef
+SERVER_LOCATION=Tank Farm A
+DAILY_EMAIL_HOUR=6
+DAILY_EMAIL_MINUTE=30
+DAILY_EMAIL_RECIPIENT=alerts@company.com
+ENABLE_SERIAL_DEBUG=false
+STATIC_IP_ADDRESS=192,168,1,100
+MONTHLY_REPORT_ENABLED=true
+MONTHLY_REPORT_DAY=1
+```
\ No newline at end of file
diff --git a/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram.ino b/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram.ino
index b3c6aa4..57c5361 100644
--- a/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram.ino
+++ b/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram.ino
@@ -80,7 +80,7 @@ String dailyEmailAttemptDate = "";
 bool dailyEmailPending = false;
 unsigned long lastDailyEmailRetry = 0;
 const unsigned long DAILY_EMAIL_RETRY_INTERVAL = 1800000; // 30 minutes in milliseconds
-const int MAX_TANK_REPORTS = 50;  // Maximum number of reports to store in memory
+const int MAX_TANK_REPORTS = 100;  // Maximum array size (actual limit from configuration)
 TankReport tankReports[MAX_TANK_REPORTS];
 int reportCount = 0;
 
@@ -115,6 +115,39 @@ const int MAX_POWER_FAILURE_EVENTS = 50;
 PowerFailureEvent powerFailureEvents[MAX_POWER_FAILURE_EVENTS];
 int powerFailureEventCount = 0;
 
+// Server configuration variables (loaded from SD card config file - REQUIRED)
+String hologramDeviceKey = "";
+int dailyEmailHour = 6;
+int dailyEmailMinute = 0;
+bool useHologramEmail = true;
+String dailyEmailSmsGateway = "";
+String hologramEmailRecipient = "";
+String dailyEmailRecipient = "";
+String serverName = "Tank Alarm Server";
+String serverLocation = "Unknown Location";
+bool enableSerialDebug = true;
+int webPageRefreshSeconds = 30;
+int maxReportsInMemory = 50;
+int daysToKeepLogs = 30;
+int staticIpAddress[4] = {192, 168, 1, 100};
+int staticGateway[4] = {192, 168, 1, 1};
+int staticSubnet[4] = {255, 255, 255, 0};
+int hologramCheckIntervalMs = 5000;
+bool forwardAlarmsToEmail = true;
+String alarmEmailRecipient = "";
+bool monthlyReportEnabled = true;
+int monthlyReportDay = 1;
+int monthlyReportHour = 8;
+int ethernetMacByte1 = 0x90;
+int ethernetMacByte2 = 0xA2;
+int ethernetMacByte3 = 0xDA;
+int ethernetMacByte4 = 0x10;
+int ethernetMacByte5 = 0xD1;
+int ethernetMacByte6 = 0x72;
+
+// SD card configuration file
+#define SERVER_CONFIG_FILE "server_config.txt"
+
 void setup() {
   // Initialize serial communication for debugging
   Serial.begin(9600);
@@ -133,10 +166,21 @@ void setup() {
   } else {
     Serial.println("SD card initialized successfully");
     
+    // Load server configuration from SD card
+    loadServerConfigurationFromSD();
+    
     // Check for power failure recovery
     checkPowerFailureRecovery();
   }
   
+  // Update MAC address with loaded configuration
+  mac[0] = ethernetMacByte1;
+  mac[1] = ethernetMacByte2;
+  mac[2] = ethernetMacByte3;
+  mac[3] = ethernetMacByte4;
+  mac[4] = ethernetMacByte5;
+  mac[5] = ethernetMacByte6;
+  
   // Initialize Ethernet connection with retry logic
   initializeEthernet();
   
@@ -316,7 +360,7 @@ void processDailyReport(String reportData) {
   }
   
   // Store report in memory
-  if (reportCount < MAX_TANK_REPORTS) {
+  if (reportCount < maxReportsInMemory && reportCount < MAX_TANK_REPORTS) {
     tankReports[reportCount] = report;
     reportCount++;
   }
@@ -461,7 +505,7 @@ void sendWebPage(EthernetClient &client) {
   client.println("<html>");
   client.println("<head>");
   client.println("<title>Tank Alarm Server - Dashboard</title>");
-  client.println("<meta http-equiv='refresh' content='30'>");  // Auto refresh every 30 seconds
+  client.println("<meta http-equiv='refresh' content='" + String(webPageRefreshSeconds) + "'>");  // Auto refresh based on configuration
   client.println("<style>");
   client.println("body { font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 20px; background-color: #f0f0f0; }");
   client.println("h1 { color: #333; text-align: center; }");
@@ -541,7 +585,7 @@ void sendWebPage(EthernetClient &client) {
 
 #ifdef MONTHLY_REPORT_ENABLED
   if (MONTHLY_REPORT_ENABLED) {
-    client.println("<p>Monthly Reports: <span style='color: green;'>Enabled</span> (Day " + String(MONTHLY_REPORT_DAY) + " at " + String(MONTHLY_REPORT_HOUR) + ":00)</p>");
+    client.println("<p>Monthly Reports: <span style='color: green;'>Enabled</span> (Day " + String(monthlyReportDay) + " at " + String(monthlyReportHour) + ":00)</p>");
   }
 #endif
   
@@ -561,7 +605,7 @@ bool isTimeForDailyEmail() {
     int currentMinute = rtc.getMinutes();
     
     // Send email at configured time (default 6:00 AM)
-    if (currentHour == DAILY_EMAIL_HOUR && currentMinute >= DAILY_EMAIL_MINUTE && currentMinute < DAILY_EMAIL_MINUTE + 5) {
+    if (currentHour == dailyEmailHour && currentMinute >= dailyEmailMinute && currentMinute < dailyEmailMinute + 5) {
       // Mark that we should attempt daily email for this date
       if (dailyEmailAttemptDate != currentDate) {
         dailyEmailAttemptDate = currentDate;
@@ -727,9 +771,9 @@ void initializeEthernet() {
     logEvent("DHCP failed - using static IP fallback");
     
     // Try to configure using static IP fallback
-    IPAddress ip(192, 168, 1, 100);
-    IPAddress gateway(192, 168, 1, 1);
-    IPAddress subnet(255, 255, 255, 0);
+    IPAddress ip(staticIpAddress[0], staticIpAddress[1], staticIpAddress[2], staticIpAddress[3]);
+    IPAddress gateway(staticGateway[0], staticGateway[1], staticGateway[2], staticGateway[3]);
+    IPAddress subnet(staticSubnet[0], staticSubnet[1], staticSubnet[2], staticSubnet[3]);
     Ethernet.begin(mac, ip, gateway, subnet);
   }
   
@@ -862,7 +906,7 @@ void restoreTankReportsFromSD() {
   if (reportsFile) {
     reportCount = 0;
     
-    while (reportsFile.available() && reportCount < MAX_TANK_REPORTS) {
+    while (reportsFile.available() && reportCount < maxReportsInMemory && reportCount < MAX_TANK_REPORTS) {
       String line = reportsFile.readStringUntil('\n');
       line.trim();
       
@@ -1013,7 +1057,7 @@ void sendRecoveryNotification() {
   if (!networkConnected) return;
   
   String message = "TANK ALARM SERVER RECOVERY NOTICE\n";
-  message += "Server: " + String(SERVER_LOCATION) + "\n";
+  message += "Server: " + serverLocation + "\n";
   message += "Time: " + getCurrentTimestamp() + "\n";
   message += "Status: System recovered from power failure\n";
   message += "Last State: " + lastShutdownReason + "\n";
@@ -1350,6 +1394,216 @@ void saveEmailRecipients() {
   }
 }
 
+void loadServerConfigurationFromSD() {
+  if (!SD.begin(SD_CARD_CS_PIN)) {
+    Serial.println("CRITICAL ERROR: Failed to initialize SD card for server configuration loading");
+    Serial.println("SD card configuration is REQUIRED for operation");
+    while (true) {
+      // Halt execution - SD card config is required
+      delay(5000);
+      Serial.println("Please insert SD card with server_config.txt and restart");
+    }
+  }
+  
+  File configFile = SD.open(SERVER_CONFIG_FILE);
+  if (!configFile) {
+    Serial.println("CRITICAL ERROR: Server config file not found on SD card");
+    Serial.println("server_config.txt is REQUIRED for operation");
+    while (true) {
+      // Halt execution - SD card config is required
+      delay(5000);
+      Serial.println("Please create server_config.txt on SD card and restart");
+    }
+  }
+  
+  Serial.println("Loading server configuration from SD card...");
+  
+  while (configFile.available()) {
+    String line = configFile.readStringUntil('\n');
+    line.trim();
+    
+    // Skip comments and empty lines
+    if (line.startsWith("#") || line.length() == 0) {
+      continue;
+    }
+    
+    // Parse key=value pairs
+    int equalPos = line.indexOf('=');
+    if (equalPos > 0) {
+      String key = line.substring(0, equalPos);
+      String value = line.substring(equalPos + 1);
+      key.trim();
+      value.trim();
+      
+      // Update configuration variables
+      if (key == "HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY") {
+        hologramDeviceKey = value;
+      } else if (key == "DAILY_EMAIL_HOUR") {
+        dailyEmailHour = value.toInt();
+      } else if (key == "DAILY_EMAIL_MINUTE") {
+        dailyEmailMinute = value.toInt();
+      } else if (key == "USE_HOLOGRAM_EMAIL") {
+        useHologramEmail = (value == "true");
+      } else if (key == "DAILY_EMAIL_SMS_GATEWAY") {
+        dailyEmailSmsGateway = value;
+      } else if (key == "HOLOGRAM_EMAIL_RECIPIENT") {
+        hologramEmailRecipient = value;
+      } else if (key == "DAILY_EMAIL_RECIPIENT") {
+        dailyEmailRecipient = value;
+      } else if (key == "SERVER_NAME") {
+        serverName = value;
+      } else if (key == "SERVER_LOCATION") {
+        serverLocation = value;
+      } else if (key == "ENABLE_SERIAL_DEBUG") {
+        enableSerialDebug = (value == "true");
+      } else if (key == "WEB_PAGE_REFRESH_SECONDS") {
+        webPageRefreshSeconds = value.toInt();
+      } else if (key == "MAX_REPORTS_IN_MEMORY") {
+        maxReportsInMemory = value.toInt();
+        // Validate that maxReportsInMemory doesn't exceed array size
+        if (maxReportsInMemory > MAX_TANK_REPORTS) {
+          Serial.println("WARNING: MAX_REPORTS_IN_MEMORY (" + String(maxReportsInMemory) + 
+                        ") exceeds MAX_TANK_REPORTS (" + String(MAX_TANK_REPORTS) + ")");
+          Serial.println("Capping maxReportsInMemory to " + String(MAX_TANK_REPORTS));
+          maxReportsInMemory = MAX_TANK_REPORTS;
+        }
+      } else if (key == "DAYS_TO_KEEP_LOGS") {
+        daysToKeepLogs = value.toInt();
+      } else if (key == "STATIC_IP_ADDRESS") {
+        // Parse comma-separated IP address like "192,168,1,100"
+        int octetCount = 0;
+        int lastPos = 0;
+        int commaPos = -1;
+        byte tempIp[4];
+        bool validIp = true;
+        for (int i = 0; i < 4; i++) {
+          commaPos = value.indexOf(',', lastPos);
+          String octetStr;
+          if (i < 3) {
+            if (commaPos == -1) {
+              validIp = false;
+              break;
+            }
+            octetStr = value.substring(lastPos, commaPos);
+            lastPos = commaPos + 1;
+          } else {
+            octetStr = value.substring(lastPos);
+          }
+          int octet = octetStr.toInt();
+          if (octet < 0 || octet > 255) {
+            validIp = false;
+            break;
+          }
+          tempIp[i] = (byte)octet;
+        }
+        if (validIp) {
+          for (int i = 0; i < 4; i++) staticIpAddress[i] = tempIp[i];
+        }
+      } else if (key == "STATIC_GATEWAY") {
+        // Parse comma-separated gateway address
+        int octetCount = 0;
+        int lastPos = 0;
+        int commaPos = -1;
+        byte tempGateway[4];
+        bool validGateway = true;
+        for (int i = 0; i < 4; i++) {
+          commaPos = value.indexOf(',', lastPos);
+          String octetStr;
+          if (i < 3) {
+            if (commaPos == -1) {
+              validGateway = false;
+              break;
+            }
+            octetStr = value.substring(lastPos, commaPos);
+            lastPos = commaPos + 1;
+          } else {
+            octetStr = value.substring(lastPos);
+          }
+          int octet = octetStr.toInt();
+          if (octet < 0 || octet > 255) {
+            validGateway = false;
+            break;
+          }
+          tempGateway[i] = (byte)octet;
+        }
+        if (validGateway) {
+          for (int i = 0; i < 4; i++) staticGateway[i] = tempGateway[i];
+        }
+      } else if (key == "STATIC_SUBNET") {
+        // Parse comma-separated subnet mask
+        int octetCount = 0;
+        int lastPos = 0;
+        int commaPos = -1;
+        byte tempSubnet[4];
+        bool validSubnet = true;
+        for (int i = 0; i < 4; i++) {
+          commaPos = value.indexOf(',', lastPos);
+          String octetStr;
+          if (i < 3) {
+            if (commaPos == -1) {
+              validSubnet = false;
+              break;
+            }
+            octetStr = value.substring(lastPos, commaPos);
+            lastPos = commaPos + 1;
+          } else {
+            octetStr = value.substring(lastPos);
+          }
+          int octet = octetStr.toInt();
+          if (octet < 0 || octet > 255) {
+            validSubnet = false;
+            break;
+          }
+          tempSubnet[i] = (byte)octet;
+        }
+        if (validSubnet) {
+          for (int i = 0; i < 4; i++) staticSubnet[i] = tempSubnet[i];
+        }
+      } else if (key == "HOLOGRAM_CHECK_INTERVAL_MS") {
+        hologramCheckIntervalMs = value.toInt();
+      } else if (key == "FORWARD_ALARMS_TO_EMAIL") {
+        forwardAlarmsToEmail = (value == "true");
+      } else if (key == "ALARM_EMAIL_RECIPIENT") {
+        alarmEmailRecipient = value;
+      } else if (key == "MONTHLY_REPORT_ENABLED") {
+        monthlyReportEnabled = (value == "true");
+      } else if (key == "MONTHLY_REPORT_DAY") {
+        monthlyReportDay = value.toInt();
+      } else if (key == "MONTHLY_REPORT_HOUR") {
+        monthlyReportHour = value.toInt();
+      } else if (key == "ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_1") {
+        ethernetMacByte1 = value.toInt();
+      } else if (key == "ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_2") {
+        ethernetMacByte2 = value.toInt();
+      } else if (key == "ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_3") {
+        ethernetMacByte3 = value.toInt();
+      } else if (key == "ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_4") {
+        ethernetMacByte4 = value.toInt();
+      } else if (key == "ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_5") {
+        ethernetMacByte5 = value.toInt();
+      } else if (key == "ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_6") {
+        ethernetMacByte6 = value.toInt();
+      }
+    }
+  }
+  
+  configFile.close();
+  
+  // Validate critical configuration
+  if (hologramDeviceKey.length() == 0 || hologramDeviceKey == "your_device_key_here") {
+    Serial.println("CRITICAL ERROR: HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY not configured in server_config.txt");
+    while (true) {
+      delay(5000);
+      Serial.println("Please set HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY in server_config.txt and restart");
+    }
+  }
+  
+  String configMsg = "Server configuration loaded successfully - Location: " + serverLocation + 
+                    ", Daily email: " + String(dailyEmailHour) + ":" + String(dailyEmailMinute) +
+                    ", Debug: " + String(enableSerialDebug ? "ON" : "OFF");
+  Serial.println(configMsg);
+}
+
 void removeDailyEmailRecipient(int index) {
   if (index >= 0 && index < dailyRecipientCount) {
     String removedEmail = dailyEmailRecipients[index];
@@ -1660,7 +1914,7 @@ bool sendHologramPing(String pingMessage) {
   if (!networkConnected) return false;
   
   // Create JSON payload for ping
-  String jsonPayload = "{\"k\":\"" + String(HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY) + "\",";
+  String jsonPayload = "{\"k\":\"" + hologramDeviceKey + "\",";
   jsonPayload += "\"d\":\"" + pingMessage + "\",";
   jsonPayload += "\"t\":[\"PING\"]}";
   
@@ -1689,7 +1943,7 @@ bool sendHologramEmail(String recipient, String subject, String body) {
   if (!networkConnected) return false;
   
   // Create JSON payload for Hologram email API
-  String jsonPayload = "{\"k\":\"" + String(HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY) + "\",";
+  String jsonPayload = "{\"k\":\"" + hologramDeviceKey + "\",";
   jsonPayload += "\"d\":{";
   jsonPayload += "\"to\":\"" + recipient + "\",";
   jsonPayload += "\"subject\":\"" + subject + "\",";
@@ -1730,7 +1984,7 @@ bool isTimeForMonthlyReport() {
     int currentHour = rtc.getHours();
     
     // Generate report on configured day of month at configured hour
-    if (currentDay == MONTHLY_REPORT_DAY && currentHour == MONTHLY_REPORT_HOUR) {
+    if (currentDay == monthlyReportDay && currentHour == monthlyReportHour) {
       return true;
     }
   }
diff --git a/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram/server_config.h b/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram/server_config.h
index bec58d3..04da998 100644
--- a/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram/server_config.h
+++ b/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram/server_config.h
@@ -1,72 +1,28 @@
 //
 // Configuration file for Tank Alarm Server 092025
-// This is the active configuration file used by the server
+// This file now contains only essential compile-time constants
+// Most configuration is now loaded from server_config.txt on SD card
 //
 
 #ifndef SERVER_CONFIG_H
 #define SERVER_CONFIG_H
 
-// Hologram.io Configuration
-#define HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY "your_device_key_here"  // Replace with your actual device key
-#define HOLOGRAM_APN "hologram"                     // Hologram.io APN (usually stays "hologram")
-
-// Daily Email Configuration
-#define DAILY_EMAIL_HOUR 6                         // Hour to send daily email (24-hour format)
-#define DAILY_EMAIL_MINUTE 0                       // Minute to send daily email
-#define USE_HOLOGRAM_EMAIL true                    // Use Hologram API for email delivery (default)
-#define DAILY_EMAIL_SMS_GATEWAY "+19995551234"     // SMS gateway for email delivery (fallback)
-#define HOLOGRAM_EMAIL_RECIPIENT "user@example.com" // Email address for Hologram API delivery
-
-// Pin Configuration
+// Pin Configuration (hardware specific - cannot be changed at runtime)
 #define SD_CARD_CS_PIN 4                           // SD card chip select pin (works for both MKR SD PROTO and MKR ETH shields)
 
-// Network Configuration
+// Network Configuration (timeouts and hardware limits)
 #define CONNECTION_TIMEOUT_MS 30000                // Network connection timeout (30 seconds)
 #define ETHERNET_RETRY_DELAY_MS 5000              // Delay between Ethernet connection attempts
 
-// Logging Configuration
-#define ENABLE_SERIAL_DEBUG true                  // Enable/disable serial output for debugging
+// Logging Configuration (system limits)
 #define MAX_LOG_FILE_SIZE 1000000                 // Maximum log file size in bytes (1MB)
 
-// Web Server Configuration
+// Web Server Configuration (port must be compile-time for security)
 #define WEB_SERVER_PORT 80                        // Port for web server
-#define WEB_PAGE_REFRESH_SECONDS 30               // Auto refresh interval for web page
-
-// Email/SMS Configuration for Daily Reports
-#define DAILY_EMAIL_RECIPIENT "+15551234567@vtext.com"  // Email-to-SMS gateway address
-
-// Server Identification
-#define SERVER_NAME "Tank Alarm Server 092025"
-#define SERVER_LOCATION "Main Office"              // Location description for server
 
-// Data Retention Settings
-#define MAX_REPORTS_IN_MEMORY 50                  // Maximum tank reports to keep in memory
-#define DAYS_TO_KEEP_LOGS 30                      // Days to keep log files before rotation
-
-// Ethernet MAC Address (change if needed to avoid conflicts)
-#define ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_1 0x90
-#define ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_2 0xA2  
-#define ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_3 0xDA
-#define ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_4 0x10
-#define ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_5 0xD1
-#define ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_6 0x72
-
-// Static IP Configuration (used as fallback if DHCP fails)
-#define STATIC_IP_ADDRESS {192, 168, 1, 100}
-#define STATIC_GATEWAY {192, 168, 1, 1}
-#define STATIC_SUBNET {255, 255, 255, 0}
-
-// Hologram Data Reception Settings
-#define HOLOGRAM_CHECK_INTERVAL_MS 5000           // How often to check for new messages
+// System Buffer Sizes (memory allocation at compile time)
 #define MESSAGE_BUFFER_SIZE 1024                  // Size of message buffer for parsing
 
-// Alarm Notification Settings
-#define FORWARD_ALARMS_TO_EMAIL true              // Forward alarm messages to email
-#define ALARM_EMAIL_RECIPIENT "+15551234567@vtext.com"  // Email for alarm notifications
-
-// Monthly Report Settings
-#define MONTHLY_REPORT_ENABLED true               // Enable monthly CSV reports
-#define MONTHLY_REPORT_DAY 1                      // Day of month to generate report (1-28)
-#define MONTHLY_REPORT_HOUR 8                     // Hour to generate monthly report
+// No fallback defaults - SD card configuration is required
 
 #endif // SERVER_CONFIG_H
\ No newline at end of file
diff --git a/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram/server_config.txt b/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram/server_config.txt
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..92af42c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/TankAlarm-092025-Server-Hologram/server_config.txt
@@ -0,0 +1,51 @@
+# Tank Alarm Server Configuration File
+# Place this file on the SD card to configure server settings
+# Lines starting with # are comments and will be ignored
+# Format: KEY=VALUE (no spaces around =)
+
+# Hologram.io Configuration
+HOLOGRAM_DEVICE_KEY=your_device_key_here
+
+# Daily Email Configuration
+DAILY_EMAIL_HOUR=6
+DAILY_EMAIL_MINUTE=0
+USE_HOLOGRAM_EMAIL=true
+DAILY_EMAIL_SMS_GATEWAY=+19995551234
+HOLOGRAM_EMAIL_RECIPIENT=user@example.com
+DAILY_EMAIL_RECIPIENT=+15551234567@vtext.com
+
+# Server Identification
+SERVER_NAME=Tank Alarm Server 092025
+SERVER_LOCATION=Main Office
+
+# System Configuration
+ENABLE_SERIAL_DEBUG=true
+WEB_PAGE_REFRESH_SECONDS=30
+MAX_REPORTS_IN_MEMORY=50  # Maximum: 100 (will be capped if exceeded)
+DAYS_TO_KEEP_LOGS=30
+
+# Network Configuration (Static IP fallback)
+# Format: comma-separated octets like 192,168,1,100
+STATIC_IP_ADDRESS=192,168,1,100
+STATIC_GATEWAY=192,168,1,1
+STATIC_SUBNET=255,255,255,0
+
+# Ethernet MAC Address (each byte as decimal)
+ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_1=144
+ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_2=162
+ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_3=218
+ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_4=16
+ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_5=209
+ETHERNET_MAC_BYTE_6=114
+
+# Hologram Settings
+HOLOGRAM_CHECK_INTERVAL_MS=5000
+
+# Alarm Notification Settings
+FORWARD_ALARMS_TO_EMAIL=true
+ALARM_EMAIL_RECIPIENT=+15551234567@vtext.com
+
+# Monthly Report Settings
+MONTHLY_REPORT_ENABLED=true
+MONTHLY_REPORT_DAY=1
+MONTHLY_REPORT_HOUR=8
\ No newline at end of file