I am sending the following message a second time because it got bounced
back the first time around. I have the feeling that some got it, most
didn't. Two person asked me to summary the replies. So far, I have
received no reply to my questions.
We are in the process of planning to network 4 workstations for 35 CDs,
Internet, and WESTLAW/LEXIS access. We have received 3 proposals.
Proposal #1 recommended using one computer as the file server; Proposal #2
recommended not to use a dedicated computer as file server; Proposal #3
recommended an enhanced multi-user Windows NT (called WinFrame, like a
Mainframe) as host, and dummy terminals as workstations. The difference
in cost of these 3 proposals are in descending order. While cost is a big
factor in our final decision, the functionality, dependability, and amount
of technical support needed are also essential to our choice.
I am in search of some input from members of this list, particularly on
Proposal #3. Is anyone using dummy terminals CD network setup? Does
anyone have any comments on the drawback of this proposal, other than the
obvious drawbacks of (1) if the WinFrame goes down everything is at a
standstill, and (2) the impossibility of recycling dummy terminals as
standalone PC's, in the event of a future upgrade. What are the pros and
cons from your experiences? Is it something that should be seriously
considered? I would appreciate any comments concerning your library's
solutions, or any advice. If there is an interest I will be glad to
report a summary of your replies to this list. TIA.
Kai-Yun Chiu
Baltimore Bar Library
kchiu@mail.bcpl.lib.md.us
TEL 410-727-0280
FAX 410-685-4791
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