A Modern Interface For Library Public PCs

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A Modern Interface ForLibrary Public PCs

• Richard Wayne
• University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
  At Dallas Library
• richard.wayne_at_
• utsouthwestern.edu

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Presentation Outline

• Our environment
• Major issues and problems
• Areas for improvement
• Hardware software options
• The end result

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UT Southwestern Library

• Large academic medical library
• Heavy investment in networked technologies
• Limited systems staff
• 75 - 100 PCs with this configuration
• 250 computers (Windows/UNIX servers, PCs, Macs)

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The Major Issues

• Provide the necessary functionality to clients
• Ensure an easy and predictable user experience
• Secure the PC and the network
• Minimize public services staff and systems staff
  maintenance time

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Problems - Old Public PC Model

• Software applications aging
• Newer resources missing
• Security holes allow some permanent client
  manipulation changes
• Newer OSs available
• Some functionality missing
• More than one model

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Areas For Improvement

• Newer versions of applications such as Office,
  IE, Netscape(?), Acrobat Reader
• Additional applications such as Intellisync,
  HotSync, ActiveSync, Real, QuickTime
• New technologies such as personal digital
  assistants (PDAs)
• CD install functionality

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Options Operating System

• Stay with Windows NT Workstation
• OR - Migrate to Windows 2000 Pro
• OR Migrate to Windows XP Pro

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Options - Security

• Windows native security
• N.B. Microsoft support issues
• Fortres 4.1
• Centurion Guard hardware and software
• Sophos anti-virus
• Security cables

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Options Hardware Genl.

• PCs from a major vendor with extended support
• Zip drives
• CD (DVD RW next)
• Diskette drives
• Headphones
• HP 8100C Digital Sender
• HP 5470C ScanJet

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Options Hardware - PDA

• 4-Port USB hubs or similar hardware
• Cradles for Palm VIIx, m505 Handspring Visor
  Compaq iPAQ
• Physical security options

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The End Result

• Several variations on the theme
• A modern interface that responds to client needs
• A vandalism-resistant configuration
• A new PC model that has very low maintenance
  needs from systems and public services staff

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Some Other Tools

• Fortres Central Control
• CybraryN
• Microsoft SMS
• Symantec Ghost
• Pharos UnipriNT

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For Further Information

• http//www3.utsouthwestern.edu/library/staff/staff
  .htm

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Questions?