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Guidelines for Purchase of New Computers - Fall 2008
Enterprise System Compatibility and Timeline
What is Windows Vista?
Windows Vista the newest operating system by Microsoft for desktop and laptop computers.
Does IRT support Windows Vista Operating System?
IRT provides ongoing support for MS Windows Vista on personally- and university-owned computers.
Does IRT recommend University purchases of Windows Vista Operating System for new computers?
While many of the principle enterprise systems in use at Drexel have been certified as Windows Vista compatible, SunGard Banner, Hyperion and Nolij, along with other ancillary systems listed on our Compatibility chart, have not been completely certified as Windows Vista compliant. The decision, therefore, rests with you and your department. IRT recommends that you seek the advice of your System Administrator, as necessary, and review the Enterprise System Compatibility link above.
University Procurement staff along with IRT can assist you in your decision making. See the Guidelines for Purchase... link above.
Can I purchase a new computer with or upgrade to Windows Vista Operating System?
Yes, you can. Understand that during this time in which some Enterprise systems are not certified by their vendors, IRT can provide some support for you if you have difficulties which interfere with your work. We strongly recommend you contact your IRT desktop support representative before proceeding with any plans to upgrade to Windows Vista.
How will IRT announce changes in Windows Vista support?
Stay tuned to this website, visible on the IRT home page, http://www.drexel.edu/irt; also, the IRT Tech Update electronic newsletter will contain information in each issue.
What versions of Windows Vista are available?
There are a few versions of Windows Vista available; for personal computers, IRT recommends either the Business or Ultimate version (depending on the specifications of your computer). For university computers, your IRT desktop support consultant can assist you with recommendations to suit your needs. As the time approaches for installation on University-owned computers, IRT will announce the appropriate version and method of installation.
What are the hardware requirements?
IRT publishes guides for purchasing new computers at http://www.drexel.edu/irt/services/computers/qa.html.
The minimum requirements for Windows Vista Business are:
- • Processor - at least 1 GHz
- • System Memory - 1 GB
- • Hard Drive - 40 GB
- • Hard Drive Free Space - at least 15 GB
Optional Support for DirectX 9 graphics:
- • WDDM Driver
- • 128 MB graphics memory
Microsoft provides an Upgrade Advisor that allows you to check the compatibility of your hardware system to Windows Vista editions.
When is the release date?
The release date was January 30, 2007. We recommend that you do not install the OS as soon as it comes out. It is better to wait until testing is complete and the first service pack is released. At this time deployment is not approved until after 1st quarter 2008.
How can I find more information?
Go to http://www.microsoft.com/windowsvista/ to learn about features, choose from among the various editions, check your hardware compatibility, etc. You can also email the IRT help desk at consult@drexel.edu or call us at 215-895-2020.
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