Trends

Windows Updates:

Updates are provided by Microsoft for the lifetime of all activated copies of Windows.  Due to the range of updates offered we choose to manually install updates on workstations after they have been tested and verified.  Updates often require system restarts which are causes loss of productivity during work hours.  Therefore, we will provide off-hour remote updates when required.   

Windows 7:

On October 22nd, 2009 Microsoft will release its newest edition of Windows, Windows 7.  Windows 7 marks the return of Microsoft’s stable, reliable business operating system—last found in Windows XP Service Packs 2 and 3.  Windows 7 offers the next generation operating system experience of Windows Vista, but without the cost—overwhelming hardware requirements, unstable hardware drivers and a less–than–mature core.  An upgrade version will be available from XP Professional to Windows 7 Professional, but each system will need to meet the requirements for Windows 7 and be entirely reformatted.   

Dual Monitor Support:

Almost all of the workstations sold by ECRL in the past five years support the new trend in business productivity, dual monitor input.  By connecting a second monitor to a system many jobs can have their efficiency double with the extra screen “real–estate.”  Also, the addition of software such as UltraMon—a user with two (or even more) monitors can have their full operating system experience spread across multiple monitors. 

Media Hub:

A Linksys/Cisco media hub is a new low cost storage option for on-site file backup.  The media hub backs up data by combing the network and pulling back data such as media (photos, digital music, videos) and documents to its drive.  These hubs are shipped without hard drives and can therefore be customized to allow for the amount of storage needed at each location.  The media hub also contains the ability to browse the pictures, and listen to/watch the music and videos on the device from anywhere in the world while the hub stays safely in your business or home through a secure internet portal.