October 22, 2009
Windows 7 Disks Sent to County Offices
Today or tomorrow (October 22nd or 23rd), you should receive a new Microsoft Windows 7 Enterprise 64-bit DVD for your office. This is the newest Microsoft Windows Operating System and replaces Windows Vista. All new machines setup by EIT currently come with Windows 7 installed.
Included with the DVD are instructions for installing it on new or current machines. NOTE: we recommend a 'clean' install for all upgrades. This means that you should copy off all data, format the hard drive and then install the new operating system.
Windows 7 can be installed on any computer owned or leased by Iowa State University Extension under the terms of the Microsoft Campus Agreement for Iowa State University. You do NOT need to upgrade any current computer unless you're having problems with your current machine and are requested to do so by Extension IT staff.
For more information about Windows 7, including hardware requirements and installation instructions, you can go here.
If you have questions or need assistance, contact the Extension IT Support Hotline at 515.294.1725 or eithotline@iastate.edu
September 02, 2009
Updated Policies for Computer Hardware Support
With Microsoft's deployment of the Windows 7 operating system and its discontinued support of XP (in April of 2009), EIT has changed some of its new computer setup and support procedures.
- ALL new computers setup by EIT will have Windows 7 as the operating system.
- If your computer is currently working just fine with XP you may continue to use it for as long as you wish. When a problem arises with a machine however, EIT's solution will be to resolve the problem by installing Windows 7 on the machine.
- Windows 7 installation DVD's will be distributed in the near future. Check back for updates.
Machines that can run Microsoft Vista can also run Windows 7. Machines that can't run Microsoft Vista and Windows 7 no longer meet the minimum support standards.
Update for Adobe Presenter
Adobe Presenter has a new update; version 7.0.5. This update addresses a number of issues and minor bugs with Adobe Presenter 7. If you use Adobe Presenter, it is recommended you update your version by going to http://www.adobe.com/support/downloads/product.jsp?product=153&platform=Windows. There are currently three updates, you should apply them in order. In order to see what version you are currently running, Open PowerPoint, click on the Adobe Presenter menu, select Help, About Adobe Presenter.