Hardware

Workstations

All our work client computers are Dell Dimensions running Windows XP Pro, these are inexpensive and pretty basic, although this is all you require for basic office applications. The is no need for a dedicated graphics card when all you are running is 2D office applications, no need for a huge hard drive when all your data is stored on the server. I am the first and last line of support for these computers and I find the Dells very reliable and therefore there is no need to take any extended cover on these units, if they run fine for the first year they should be good for the next five. If they fail after the first year and I cannot easily repair them (which would be pretty unlikely) I would just replace them with the newer model. Try not to have a mix workstation manufacturers as this will increase the compatibility problems you will have.

Servers

Our main servers are Acer G10 Altos, with Terminal server for some of our remote users and an Unix box that contains a legacy case management system. I can administer all of these using Remote Desktop Connection from any workstation in our network.

Printers

There are many IT problems that you can ignore or put off until later without users complaining much, but if user can't print your in trouble. Our work dictates that we require a three tray printer and we have opted for the HP4250TN. The HP4250TN is a networked printer with two 500 stack tray and a manual feed that can be used as an additional tray. I use Marco's and a dprint file from our case management system to determine the tray destination for each document sent to the printers. These printers have a browser interface that allows you to manage and configure them remotely, you can also configure the printer to e-mail you when it requires attention, i.e. low on toner, paper etc. I find these printers very reliable and the HP helpline is very good, so we have not purchased any additional support for these. For solicitors local use I have opted for the HP1020 laser printer, and for colour documents we have a Konica Magicolour wich gives a professional look to presentations etc.