Our first goal here is to define what we consider to be an appropriate
configuration based on the two most common types of users. First, the
standard or office user. This configuration will easily fit the casual
user as well, who primarily uses a single, or limited applications and
mostly does e-mail, runs reports and does research or regular posting of
general accounting transactions. The Advanced, or Power User as
they are sometimes referred to, tends to look for more powerful
solutions for either personal reward, gaming, or high-graphical intense
applications. With minor variations the vast majority of all users
will fall into one of the classifications.
Standard or Casual User *
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Advanced or Power User *
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Intel or AMD Dual-core processor
2.2Ghz
or better
2-4GB of RAM (3 for 32-bit OS, 4 for
64-OS installs, if in doubt, go with 4)
80-250GB SATA fixed disk drive
7200 RPM minimum (this is the speed the
disk turns. The faster the speed, the quicker your data
is stored and accessed)
OS (Windows Vista with appropriate upgrading of
applications software is still a wise and easy business
choice. However, for many single purpose workstations,
such as inventory receiving, Linux is a very acceptable
OS. Also, Apple Mac OS X works fine in many areas where
Windows compatible software is not required, or using a
Virtual Machine running a Windows OS where application
compatibility is an issue.)
Minimum of 4
USB (version 2.0 is most popular, but version 3.0
was released to Intel in August 2008)
Multi-media ports for flash memory
High-speed 1GB Ethernet
802.11G Wireless, depending on LAN connectivity strategy
256MB (on-board) Graphics card with dual DVI interface
High resolution 1600 DPI mouse or better and
high-quality tactile keyboard
Estimated Pricing: $800 - $1600
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Intel or AMD Dual-core processor
3.0Ghz
or better (Quad-core for high graphics demand)
4-8GB of RAM (64-OS installs)
150-500GB SATA fixed disk drive
10,000/15,0000 RPM
Plus 1 1TB 7200 SATA
fixed drive (primarily for backup and large quantity
local file storage)
OS (Windows Vista with appropriate upgrading of
applications software is still a wise and easy business
choice. However, for many single purpose workstations,
such as inventory receiving, Linux is a very acceptable
OS. Also, Apple Mac OS X works fine in many areas where
Windows compatible software is not required, or using a
Virtual Machine running a Windows OS where application
compatibility is an issue.)
Minimum of 6-8
USB (version 2.0 is most popular, but version 3.0
was released to Intel in August 2008)
Multi-media ports for flash memory
High-speed 1GB Ethernet
802.11G Wireless, depending on LAN connectivity strategy
Dual 384MB, or higher (on-board) Graphics card with dual
DVI interface (total of four monitor ports)
High resolution 1600 DPI mouse or better and
high-quality tactile keyboard
Estimated Pricing $1600 - $2400 (High-end augmented
systems up to $4400) |
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HP Personal Workstations or
HP 7000 Series Desktop PCs |
HP xw6600 Workstation or
HP xw8600 Workstation |
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Dell
Precision T3400 Workstation
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Dell Precision T5400 Workstation or
Dell Precision
T7400 Workstation |
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Lenovo ThinkCentre M Series |
Lenovo ThinkStation S10 |
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Thin Client Solutions
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Both models listed
above are classic tower configuration with front access to USB
and flash memory ports. It should be noted that Thin
Workstations are gaining popularity again and may be considered
in larger organizations as viable solutions. There is not a lot
of differences currently in the Thin Client configuration from
the standard configuration above with the exception that the
internal fixed disk has a smaller capacity or may be entirely
solid state memory (flash.) The footprint of the Thin
Client is migrating to an all-in-one where the unit is self
contained and may include the monitor as well. The OS of
the Thin Client may be Windows XPe or Linux and may boot to a
Virtual Server via boot ROM without any internal application
space at all. Models are available from
Hewlett-Packard
or the
Lenovo IBM NetVista line of Thin Clients.
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*
Some augmentation of manufacturers listed products may be required to meet recommended
specifications noted above.
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The
information provided herein is not warranted in anyway and is
subject to change without notice. We recommend that you confirm
information contained herein with the appropriate manufacturer
or reseller.
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