Personal Computer and Workstation Technologies
Workstations
Compaq AP550 Professional Workstation
The Compaq AP550 Professional Windows NT Workstation offers 128MB
of memory and a 9GB or 18GB hard drive (10 or 20GB are optional), and five expansion
slots–four for PCI and one for AGP Pro 4X. The machine features an Intel
Pentium III processor in a convertible mini-tower design. Contact: Compaq Computer
Corp., Houston, TX; (800) 88-TEACH; www.compaq.com.
Gateway E-1400 Series Workstations
The network-ready E-1400 Series systems from Gateway are designed
for distributed teaching labs as well as administrative environments. The E-1400
incorporates a tool-free design that allows the user to open the case by simply
pushing a button. The motherboard slides out without tools, and the CD-ROM,
floppy disk, and drives are mounted on accessible drive trays for quick removal.
The E-1400 includes an Intel 400MHz processor and 64MB SDRAM. Contact: Gateway
2000, North Sioux City, SD; (800) GATEWAY; www.gateway.com.
HP Kayak XU PC Workstation
The HP Kayak XU offers a Pentium Xeon 550MHz version of the powerful
2D and mid-range 3D PC workstation running Windows NT. Features include 512KB
or 1MB L2 cache and rewritable CD drive. The workstation comes with a free suite
of manageability tools for contol of computing assets, including MaxiLife, for
managing critical systems components; TopTools for asset management, trouble-shooting,
and software roll management; and ConfigTailor to deploy and provide recovery
for HP PCs. Contact: Hewlett Packard, Santa Clara, CA; (800) 752-0900; www.hp.com.
IBM RS/6000 Model 43P-140
This entry-level graphics workstation offers a wide range of options,
including choice of processor speed, storage devices, and communications features,
allowing users to configure the system for particular needs. Graphics capability
makes the Model 140 an appropriate solution for demanding 2D or high-function
3D applications. Contact: International Business Machines, Inc., Armonk, NY;
(914) 499-1900; www.ibm.com.
Sun Ultra Workstations
Sun offers two new workstations in its more affordable Ultra line.
The Ultra 10 is designed for 2D and 3D content creation, software and Java application
development, financial analysis, and GIS applications. It offers a 440MHz UltraSPARC-IIi
processor with 2MB cache, up to 1GB DRAM and up to two 9GB hard disks. The Ultra
5, featuring a 360MHz UltraSPARC-IIi processor and up to 512MB of EDO DRAM,
was developed for software and Java application development, electronic design
automation, data collection/retrieval, and digital content creation. Both allow
the user to run PC productivity applications at native speeds alongside technical
UNIX applications. Contact: Sun Microsystems, Inc., Palo Alto, CA; (650) 960-1300;
www.sun.com.
Tangent Workshop 700
This entry-level workstation features the power to run MCAD, ECAD,
GIS applications, or to create digital content on the desktop. The 32MB 100MHz
machine includes diskette drive and CD-ROM drive as well as an optional DVD.
The 700 runs on the Windows NT 4.0 operating system. Contact: Tangent, Burlingame,
CA; (888) TANGENT; www.tangent.com.
Desktop Computers
AcerPower Desktop Computers
AcerPower computers range from entry-level models to more powerful
workstations. All Acer systems are equipped with Intel processors running Windows
operating systems (some systems allow the installation of multiple Windows operating
systems). Included is a custom-designed warranty program for education. Models
run from the Acer 2100 with its small footprint and integrated design to the
fully loaded high-end Acer 8600. Contact: Acer America Corp., San Jose, CA;
(800) 391-ACER; www.aceredu.com.
Apple iMac DV
The Apple iMac DV features either a 350- or 400MHz processor,
64- or 1288MB of SDRAM, ATI Rage graphics accelerator, and 56K modem. The DV
model comes loaded with iMovie software, which allows users to make their own
movies. The DV model also provides a standard VGA output port and video mirroring
support. An available FireWire cable connects a DV camcorder to the computer.
For a limited time, Apple is providing a free FireWire cable with DV-model iMacs.
Contact: Apple Computer, Cupertino, CA; (408) 974-0210; www.apple.com.
Dell OptiPlex GX100 and GX110
The OptiPlex GX100 features a 433MHz Intel Celeron Processor,
64MB SDRAM, and a 6.4GB hard drive. The GX110 comes with a 533MHz Intel Pentium
III processor, 64MB SDRAM, 13.6GB hard drive, and Sound Blaster AudioPCI. They
include integrated Intel 3D graphics, dynamic video memory technology, integrated
security, fault management, data integrity, and configuration monitoring manageability
features. Contact: Dell Computer, Corp., Round Rock, TX; (800) 274-7799; www.dell.com.
Gateway Profile All-in-One Desktop
Gateway Profile All-in-One Desktops feature a sleek 15-inch LCD
that is only 3 inches deep, integrated multimedia and communication tools, industry-standard
manageability, and 64MB SDRAM. The Profile is designed to fit into a compact
space while providing the ease of use of a desktop computer. Contact: Gateway
2000, North Sioux City, SD; (800) GATEWAY; www.gateway.com.
InfoGOLD Pentium III Desktop
InfoGOLD offers a special system featuring Intel Pentium III processor
and AMD K6-2/3D 400MHz PC 100. The system is DVD ready and includes diskette
and CD-ROM drive. It operates on the Windows 98 operating system and includes
a 15-inch monitor. Contact: InfoGOLD, Milpitas, CA; (800)
888-6615; www.infogold.com.
Premio Telesto3 Series
The Telesto3 series features 32MB SDRAM, integrated 10/100 LAN
chipset, ATI video, and a choice of processors. A 15-inch monitor is available.
Windows 98 or NT comes preinstalled. This alternative to a more expensive mainstream
desktop promises seamless integration into any network featuring the Premio
Titan server. A remote LAN wake-up feature allows for remote maintenance without
interruption. Contact: PREMIO, City of Industry, CA; (800) 677-6477; www.premiopc.com.
Toshiba Equium
The Toshiba Equium 7100 and 7300 series comprise a build-to-order
system that includes a range of options for customizing a lower-priced desktop
solution. Available with the Intel Pentium III processor, all Equiums feature
a single cross-platform NLX motherboard solution, configuration builder CD,
single pre-install image, common components, and an Instant Access Door for
quick upgrades and easy maintenance applications. Contact: Toshiba, Irvine,
CA; (800) TOSHIBA; www.toshiba.com.
Portable Computers
AlphaSmart 2000
The AlphaSmart 2000 is a portable keyboard or note taker compatible
with any Macintosh or PC. It enables students to practice keyboarding and to
write and store reports, essays, and notes without having to be at a computer.
The device allows users to provide technology access to an entire classroom
of thirty students for the price of two or three computers. The product includes
a full-sized keyboard and four-line text display. It weighs two pounds and runs
on three AA batteries for up to 300 hours of typical use. Contact: AlphaSmart,
Cupertino, CA; (888) 274-0680; www.alphasmart.com.
Compaq Presario Notebooks
Compaq’s Presario series includes the 1900T line of customizable
or pre-configured portables. Each features a Pentium or Celeron processor of
at least 400MHz, removable drive wedge, second-generation DVD ROM drive, and
the Microsoft Featured Home Collection including MS Word, Money, Works, and
Encarta. The 1900T is ultra-thin and light. For the buyer who d'es not want
to build a customized system, various models are available in pre-set starting
configurations. Contact: Compaq Computer Corp., Houston, TX; (800) 99-TEACH;
www.compaq.com.
DreamWriter I.T.
The DreamWriter I.T. portable computer features a laptop design
with hinged screen display, a Hitachi SH7709 process with 80MHz, 128MB RAM,
64MB DRAM, and a 33.6kbps internal modem. The DreamWriter comes with a full-sized
keyboard and stereo sound via its built-in speakers. Contact: NTS Computer Systems,
Maple Ridge, BC, Canada; (800) 663-7163; nts.dreamwriter.com.
Freedom Writer Pro
Freedom Writer Pro’s all-in-one PC input device allows
users to annotate projected slides to underscore a point, hand write notations
over documents, or draw freehand. The user’s mouse pad converts to a graphics
pad at the touch of a button. An on-screen keyboard allows users to type Web
addresses, enter messages, and edit documents. Designed for presentations, collaborative
meetings, and navigating the Internet, the product’s command buttons can
be personalized to perform frequently used functions. Contact: Interlink Electronics,
Camarillo, CA; (800) 340-1331; interlinkelectronics.com.
IBM ThinkPad 600X
The ThinkPad 600X models feature an Intel Pentium processor up
to 500MHz with 256KB Level 2 cache, 13.
3-inch active matrix display, an accelerated
graphics port, and up to a 12GB self-monitoring, analysis, and reporting technology
hard disk drive. The ThinkPad is about 1.4 inches thick and comes with a choice
of CD-ROM, diskette drive, or optional DVD drive or SuperDisk. Also included
are a microphone and speaker. Contact: International Business Machines, Inc.,
Armonk, NY; (914) 499-1900; www.ibm.com.
NEC MobilePro 750C H/PC
NEC MobilePro 750C H/PC is a hand-held computer small enough to
fit into a briefcase or handbag. Weighing less than two pounds, the 750C features
a high-contrast, 8-inch diagonal color display with touchscreen capabilities
for immediate access to key applications. Ten programmable function keys are
built into the keyboard. The 750C offers two expansion slots and a 80MHz processor.
Other features include an internal microphone and speaker as well as personal
information management software, which can be synchronized with Microsoft Outlook,
Scheduler, Exchange, Lotus Organizer, and other applications. Contact: NEC,
Irving, TX; (800) 832-6632; www.nec.com.
3Com Palm VII
Connected Organizer
The Palm VII provides many of the same features of 3Com’s
Palm III and Palm V series, but with the addition of wireless access to the
Internet. Slightly higher in price than the other Palm models and slightly heavier
(at 6.7 oz), the Palm VII offers 2MB RAM, weeks of battery life on two AAA batteries,
and compatibility with Windows 95 or higher as well as Apple System 7.5.3 or
higher. The applications include a date book, address book, to-do list, memo
pad, calculator, games, Web clipping, and desktop e-mail connectivity. Contact:
3Com, San Jose, CA; (408) 326-5000; www.3com.com.
Toshiba Satellite 2100
Toshiba Satellite 2100 offers a 400MHz AMD processor with 3DNow
technology, 56K modem, large hard drive, 3.5-inch disk drive, and CD-ROM drive.
The multimedia package includes a 12.1-inch diagonal active matrix color display,
Toshiba 3D sound system, and S3 ViRGE MX 3D graphics controller. The computer,
which weighs less than six pounds, comes with Windows 98, Outlook, Internet
Explorer, and other applications. Contact: Toshiba America Consumer Products,
Inc., Wayne, NJ; (800) 631-3611; www.toshiba.com/tacp.
Operating Systems
Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional
Designed to incorporate features from both Windows 98 and NT,
Windows 2000 Professional offers 64-bit Windows, a new interface that is designed
to reduce desktop clutter and simplify the Start menu, and built-in Internet
Explorer 5. Windows 2000 Professional works with any server. Contact: Microsoft,
Redmond, WA; (800) 426-9400; www.microsoft.com.
Servers
IBM RS/6000 Servers
IBM offers several models of RS/6000 servers. At the high end
is Model S80, the newest member of The RS family of enterprise servers.
Powered
by a 64-bit microprocessor, it promises fast Web serving and ERP capabilities
and is appropriate for server consolidation or to run supply-chain management,
customer relationship management, online transaction processing, and business
intelligence. The RS/6000 Model B50 is optimized for the service provider industry,
and is a lower-cost, high-density rack-mount system. The B50 is designed for
applications such as Web hosting, caching, messaging, firewalls, directory services,
and e-commerce. Contact: International Business Machines, Inc., Armonk, NY;
(914) 499-1900; www.ibm.com.
Microsoft Windows 2000 Server
The Windows 2000 Server family consists of three editions: Standard,
Advanced, and Datacenter. At the core of the 2000 Server is the Active Directory,
which provides a centralized way to manage users, groups, security services,
and network resources. Windows 2000 Server also provides a set of Web and Internet
services that allow schools to utilize Web technologies. Standard is designed
for small- to medium-sized school applications. Advanced is appropriate for
database-intensive work. DataCenter, a specialized high-end product, is optimal
for large data warehouses, econometric analysis, large-scale simulations, and
large-scale ISPs and Web-site hosting. Contact: Microsoft, Redmond, WA;
(800) 426-9400; www.microsoft.com.
SGI 1000 Family
SGI offers a new family of servers, the 1000 series. The series
includes products ranging from two-way rack-optimized servers to four-way workgroup
and applications servers, to eight-way database servers. Recent models include
the 1400M, which runs the Microsoft Windows NT operating system, and the 1400L,
which runs the Linux operating system. Designed for high-demand, compute-intensive
environments, these servers can be used to manage digital content. The new server
line offers lower prices than previously available on SGI servers. Contact:
SGI, Mountain View, CA; (650) 960-1980; www.sgi.com.
Security Software
Fortres 101
Fortres 101 security agent examines everything the user attempts
and decides if the operation is prudent from the system’s and administrator’s
perspective, giving administrators strict authority to specify which applications
may be executed and which settings may be modified. Administrators can manage
groups and users remotely using the Central Control 4.0 plug in. The product
prevents users from interrupting boot process; exiting Windows; accessing a
DOS prompt; adding, moving, or deleting icons; installing, copying, or downloading
software; and more. Contact: Fortres Grand Corp., Plymouth, IN; (800) 331-0372;
www.fortres.com.
WinShield
WinShield from Citadel Technology is desktop management and security
software for Windows, designed to protect and secure shared desktops and workstations
in computer labs and other settings.
The application sets restrictions on tasks
that users can perform and which program icons and start menu items they see,
and can control when users can access the Internet, FTP sites, Web sites, and
e-mail. The software can be used with Windows 95 or NT. The stand-alone Winshield
for workstations is installed and configured at each PC, and the settings are
password protected. Contact: Citadel Technology, Dallas, TX; (800) 962-0701;
www.citadel.com.
Productivity/ PC Management
Aladdin StuffIt Deluxe 5.5 Expander
The award-winning, industry-standard StuffIt Deluxe makes your
files smaller to allow users to put more onto a hard drive, Zip disk, or any
type of storage media. Along with a comprehensive array of translators and decoders,
StuffIt Deluxe simplifies exchanging files with other Macs, PCs, or Unix-based
computers. Version 5.5 includes faster compression and expansion, Macintosh
OS 9 compatibility, and Zip compression option. Contact: Aladdin Systems, Watsonville,
CA; (831) 761-6200; www.aladdinsys.com.
Altiris Vision
Altiris Vision allows users to teach and train on networked computers,
monitor student PCs, guide students through complex problems, monitor call center
computers, and remotely control network computers. The software solution also
lets users lock student keyboards and mice. Contact: Altiris, Lindon, UT; (888)
252-5551; www.altiris.com.
Computer Video Star System
CVSS is a tool that enables teachers to control every student
monitor, mouse, keyboard, and multimedia resource in the computer classroom.
Instructors can transmit their own screens, transmit a student screen, blank
out student screens, and utilize various audio and video support options. Contact:
Califone International; Chatsworth, CA; (818) 407-2400; www.califone.com.
FirstClass
Collaborative Classroom Gold
FirstClass Collaborative Classroom is an open, all-in-one Web
hosting service that allows instructors to publish course materials, moderate
class discussions, and more. Instructors can format text using various colors,
fonts, and sizes to grade or comment on work submitted electronically. Drag-and-drop
graphics files embedded in the text and attachable audio and video files enhance
collaboration. FCCC Gold is compatible with Web page construction tools and
supports HTTP PUT for easy uploads as well as Web access to the address book,
preferences form, résumé, and other custom-made forms. Users can
register and change their account passwords from the Web. Contact: SoftArc,
Markham, Ontario, Canada;
(800) SOFTARC; www.softarc.com.
MacDrive 98
MacDrive 98 allows Windows to understand Macintosh disks. Because
it works transparently, users can copy, open, save, delete, and rename files
on Mac disks. Contact: Media4 Productions, West Des Moines, IA; (515) 225-7409;
www.media4.com.
MacLink Plus Deluxe 11.0
MacLink Plus enables users to open Windows files on a Macintosh
computer. Features include a file-conversion utility for translating files between
a Mac and Windows PC; translation of word processing, spreadsheet, graphic,
and database formats; the ability to open unreadable e-mail attachments; and
control-click access for OS 8 and Power Mac users. Contact: DataViz, Trumbull,
CT; (800) 270-0030; www.dataviz.com.
NetSupport Manager Version 5.0
NetSupport Manager software enables support managers to provide
spot support to end users without leaving their desks. Both the end user and
support person can see the problem in real time and reduce support costs. NetSupport
Manager is fully cross-platform compatible. Contact: NetSupport, Cumming, Georgia;
(888) 665-0808; www.netsupport-inc.com.
Accessories and Peripherals
AnyPoint Home Network
The AnyPoint Home Network solution from Intel allows users with
a single phone line to simultaneously use the Internet and telephone. Other
features include the ability to print from a hard drive to a remote printer
and to play network-ready games from separate command posts. Contact: Intel,
Santa Clara, CA; (408) 765-8080; www.intel.com.
ClassNet and ClassNet Twist
ClassNet is a tool that instructors can use to control student
use of monitors, mice, keyboards, and multimedia resources. The hardware solution
allows users to project their screens to any or all student monitors, view a
single student’s screen, scan all students’ screens, share programs,
and transmit files and messages to and from students. The product allows instructors
to carry on real-time two-way computer dialogues. ClassNet Twist uses just one
CAT5 UTP cable and is easily expandable. Contact: Minicom USA, Holland, MI;
(800) 922-8020; www.minicomusa.com.
GyroMouse Presenter
GyroMouse Presenter is a dual-mouse product that assists presenters,
educators and trainers in performing computer-based presentations ‘in air’
instead of relying on the desktop for cursor control. GyroMouse Presenter allows
for intuitive gesturing and interaction with multimedia presentations without
the need to point at the screen. Motion-sensing technology tracks the user’s
hand movements, guiding the cursor. The cordless RF product has a range of 60
feet so presenters can move about without tripping over wires. Also included
is GyroTools software, a set of special effects, multimedia, and presentation
management tools. Contact: Gyration, Saratoga, CA; (408) 973-7053; www.gyropoint.com.
Intel PC Camera Pro Pack
The Pro Pack PC camera lets users make video phone calls and import
video to a PC from a camcorder or VCR. It also allows users to record video
and take snapshots to be stored or manipulated on the PC. Contact: Intel, Santa
Clara, CA; (408) 765-8080; www.intel.com.
Iomega Clik! PC Card Drive
Iomega’s Clik! Drive fits inside an available PC card slot
on most notebook PCs. The drive allows users to supplement limited hard disk
space, take files home or on the road, send multi-megabyte data to remote users,
and organize files by project and topic. Users can move data between PCs and
handheld electronic devices, archive e-mail, and back up work in progress. Contact:
Iomega, Roy, UT; (800) 697-8833; www.iomega.com.
RealPort Integrated PC Card
RealPort PC Cards can be plugged directly into standard RJ-45
Ethernet or RJ-11 telephone cords to access information remotely. Global-Access
features include extensive country approvals, which automatically configure
the modem to local dialing conventions. The product offers LEDs for status information
at a glance, protection from high-current digital phone lines, and easy exchange
of PC cards without having to reload card drivers. Contact: Xircom, Thousand
Oaks, CA; (805) 376-9300; www.xircom.com.
Sharp MIND PATH IR50
The MIND PATH IR50 wireless mouse control acts just like a regular
computer mouse, but allows the user to give flexible presentations up to 45
feet away from the computer. The product features 20 built-in special-effects
infrared receivers, serial port interface, and presentation F/X software. Contact:
Sharp Audio Visual, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; (888) 552-9943; www.sharpav.com.
TouchStation Touch-Enabled iMac
The Touch-enabled iMac is the latest Kiosk Touch
monitor from MicroTouch. Using durable ClearTek 3000 screens, which fend off
environmental contaminants and water, the portable TouchStation kiosk is quick
to set up and transport. The TouchStations arrive ready to use with pre-installed
and configured software. Contact: MicroTouch, Methuen, MA; (800) 642-7686; www.microtouch.com.
Furniture
Computer Comforts
Computer Comforts manufactures furniture for a wide variety of
computer applications, including solutions for electronic classrooms, modular
racks for network environments, and adjustable tables and chairs for ergonomic
requirements. The latest network environment furniture features legs constructed
of strong 14-gauge 2-inch tubing, steel-reinforced shelves, and horizontal stabilizers.
Contact: Computer Comforts, Houston, TX; (281) 488-2288; www.computercomforts.com.
Paragon Furniture Deluxe Lab Workstations
The Paragon Deluxe Lab workstation series includes the CD54R,
CD66R, and CD78R, which include one or two CPU racks. All feature heavy steel
construction, adjustable legs up to 32" ADA height, and all-metal components
that are power coated for long life. At the rear of the desk unit is a full-length
wire management chase with pivotal pin door. Cords and wires pass through the
top directly into the chase. CPU racks are standard, but taller tower racks
are available. The workstations are available in twelve standard finishes. Optional
accessories include keyboards, surge protectors, and storage/book racks. Contact:
Paragon Furniture, Ft. Worth, TX; (817) 581-4045; www.paragoninc.com.