Toolkit: Technology Recommendations

Recommendations for Purchase by Client Services Staff
Last updated: January 26, 2009
Regarding: computer hardware, operating system and other software, wireless and other network equipment

Computer (Towers) Recommendation:

Minimum requirements:

Intel Duo Core processor (at least 2 GHz speed)
Minimum 1 GB of memory, 2 GB if running Vista Business
Minimum 80 GB HD
DVD RW/CD RW
Memory card reader - Optional
Floppy Drive - Optional   

We recommend using well established brands and companies, such as Dell, Lenovo or HP, that have proven track records for good products and services. The few hundred dollars you may save by buying an unusual bargain brand computer can be quickly offset by the extra amount of time needed to service it.

If you work with an old keyboard or barcode scanner connected by PS/2 ports, we suggest purchasing a tower that has PS/2 AND USB ports. We also recommend buying computers that have at least one serial and parallel port to provide options when connecting peripherals. Some vendors still offer parallel, serial and PS/2 ports which are required by older keyboards, mice, scanners and printers. If this is not possible, then keep in mind you may need to purchase new USB printers and scanners in addition to the computer itself.

Operating Systems/Software Recommendations

Strong Recommendation

Purchase ‘VISTA Ready‘ and  install and use Microsoft Windows XP Pro if possible. Some vendors still offer Vista Business with downgrade rights to XP Pro. We do know that Vista is compatible with Polaris and Trendmicro (Antivirus) however, additional testing is ongoing with all of our other services. We will inform you when we have successfully completed all testing with Windows Vista Business Edition. Unless there is a specific need to run the 64bit version of either XP or Vista, for compatibility reasons, we do recommend staying with the 32 bit version.

Monitor

The monitor you choose is up to you. Most monitors will work with any tower or laptop.

Flat screen monitors – 19 “ or bigger is recommended. However, if you have space limitation, 17” flat screen monitor would be fine.

Printer

HP printers are what we like best and have the most experience supporting. The most common printer in libraries in the YRL region is the HP Laserjet 1022n . This is a monochrome printer that is network ready and will suffice for most light to medium printing duties..

Receipt Printers

STAR TSP100 (with USB connection)  - This printer is the ONLY receipt printer that we recommended for use with Polaris. This model will print holds slip and call slip receipts.

Barcode Scanners

Symbol LS4278 – This model has worked well and has been very popular for our hotspare loaner service. It is a wireless laser scanner (Bluetooth) with cradle supports for vertical or horizontal placements.

IT3800 Scanner - This scanner comes highly recommended from one of our suppliers. Legacy Library Services is a good place to start for this type of purchase.

Wireless Router

We have successfully tested and installed a wireless router system designed to generate a one time use username/password for public use. Access time can be set to suit your needs (1 hour, 1 day, etc).

If you are on the YRL network and wish to implement this wireless system, please contact Client Services staff for assistance purchasing and installing this equipment.

Recommender/Installer Assistance

If you would like to purchase a new workstation, review your network setup or get recommendations for design and/or purchases, please feel free to call and talk to one of the Desktop and Network Administrators at YRL – or place a request for a recommendation through the online helpdesk at ‘helpdesk@yrl.ab.ca’ for more assistance.

If you purchase a computer tower, we can assist by installing and configuring your computer at YRL HQ if you drop it off, or have it delivered here first. We may also arrange with you to come out and install your equipment on site.