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API.md

@@ -37,6 +37,19 @@ See [productSync.md](productSync.md) for the cursor / row-version model in detai
 
 ---
 
+## Demo mode
+
+Node can serve a generated in-memory catalog without MSSQL.
+
+1. Generate artifacts once: `npm run demo:generate`  
+   Writes `demo/catalog.json` and `demo/images/<hash>.jpg` (≥1000 products, 3–4 category levels, variants, real photos).
+2. Set `DEMO_MODE=true` in `.env` (see `.env.example`).
+3. Start the server as usual (`npm start`). Pairing and all sync endpoints work; orders are logged and return synthetic `OK` results.
+
+Demo mode is **opt-in only** — a failed MSSQL connection does not enable it.
+
+---
+
 ## `GET /v1/client` — Pairing
 
 Discovers the server and completes pairing with a 6-digit code.