$400 Laptop - Computer Lifecycle - Asset Planning
Vista update - Humor - Community Events

Our apologies for not sending a September issue of Bit's & Bytes. On the positive side, we were swamped with a few time-sensitive special projects, and we just couldn’t get the letter out . On the negative side we were not able to update you on current relevant technological developments.

Recently, a client purchased a personal laptop for $400 from a local store. He could not believe the deal he got! While he only needed to add Microsoft Office ($350), and anti-virus ($80), his total investment (he thought) was a grand total of $830.

Our client began having issues with the machine, and  called us for help  We found that
the version of the installed Microsoft did not include Outlook (for email). That was an additional $100. Furthermore, the machine did not have enough memory, a $200 upgrade requirement.  The computer was equipped with Vista-Home Edition (a crippled version of the operating system), and the processor was five (5) years old

Had the client made all the changes, the new price of the $400 machine would have been $1030 - but with an unwanted operating system, and a five-year old processor.

For this client the solution was to increase the memory in his existing desktop ($150-$200) and tune up the machine. Had he still wanted a new laptop - we could have customized a Dell for around $1200 - with Windows XP Pro and the correct software, memory and processor.

We are frequently asked "Is it time for me to replace/upgrade my computer?" The answer is an unequivocal "it depends".

The reason for replacing/upgrading a computer should be based upon business needs. If it takes 5 minutes to open a document then it is costing you money NOT to replace the computer. If your computer does everything you need, then there is no reason to replace it. (* see section about asset planning).

Ask yourself these questions:

• does it take too long to open a document?
• do you get "virtual memory low" errors?
• do you get other errors when you open/close programs?
• do you have problems opening attachments that people send to you?

If any of these apply, it may be because your computer is nearing the end of its useful life (4-5 years).

In business, cash flow is always key. By planning computer replacements cyclically, you can minimize the impact on your cash flow. Our recommended rule of thumb is to replace 1/3 of your computers each year.

If you have 8 computers in your business, replace the oldest three each year. By the third year you will probably have added a new employee and needed that "extra" computer. The cost of a "typical" business computer is $1200-$1500, so $4500 is easier to plan for than $13,500.

Asset planning #2

File servers for most clients provide centralized storage and centralized printing. This type of file server does not need to be replaced often as there is little load on the server. As long as you are able to access your files in a timely manner,the server is adequate.

Other file servers are database servers. Programs like Act, Quickbooks, and Exchange - may have large databases on the server - and need more memory and processing power than the first type of file server. These machines must be monitored to ascertain they have enough memory and storage for your applications.

For a complimentary evaluation of your system and an assessment of your computer or server needs, please call us.

Microsoft has released both a new operating system (Vista) and a new office suite (office 2007).  Here’s  what we have been finding.

Our recommendation: Wait till Summer 2008 (really). There are too many incompatibilities with existing equipment and existing software. Little benefit to be had in upgrading. Higher IT support costs (bugs & incompatibilities).

Our recommendation: If you have a license of Office 2003 to transfer, you may want to do so. Office 2007 is good, but there is a learning curve for minimal gain.

Microsoft licensing for Office products.

• If you purchase Office with a new computer, you may only use it on that computer. If you purchase a replacement computer, you may not transfer the license.

• If you purchase a RETAIL version of Office, then you may install it on you DESKTOP computer and your LAPTOP. When you replace one of these computers you MAY transfer the license.

Please remember, as a Dell Reseller we CAN purchase WINDOWS XP PRO. End users usually cannot.

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