"Imaging" is the process of writing a complete set of operating system software, drivers and applications onto a hard drive. LTS Computing Consultants use this procedure because it provides the most up-to-date versions of all of these programs and makes troubleshooting problems simpler and more efficient.
LTS recommends purchasing new PCs with Windows Vista Home Basic edition installed, since there is a cost savings to doing so. Windows XP Professional will be installed through the imaging process. Check with your Computing Consultant before ordering to be sure your department expects this.
LTS recommends business grade models for reasons of reliability and to better facilitate the imaging process. Examples include:
Dell: Optiplex Desktop, Latitude Notebook, Precision Workstation
MPC/Gateway: E Series Desktop and Notebook, Profile
Lenovo: T Series Thinkpad, X Series Thinkpad
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does this purchasing procedure apply to the computer(s) I am purchasing?
How do I make sure I have created the quote correctly?
Does this policy apply to all computer purchases?
What if I set up adn support my own computer or use LINUX, UNIX, etc.?
What if I am ordering an Apple Mac?
Does this purchasing procedure apply to the computer(s) I am purchasing?
If the computer you are purchasing will be configured and maintained by LTS Computing Consultants, then we recommend that you purchase the computer with Genuine Windows Vista Home Basic edition to save money. Your Computing Consultant will image your computer with Microsoft Windows XP Professional edition and other preconfigured software including Microsoft Office 2007, antivirus software, configuration for Active Directory and access to LAN software.
This will reduce the cost of your computer by approximately $30. When the computer is setup, your Computing Consultant will image your computer with two software programs: Universal Imaging Utility and Symantec Ghost. To cover the cost of this software, your account will be charged a $25 LTS imaging fee. By ordering the PC with Vista Home Basic a discount of about $55 is realized, for a net savings of $30.
How do I make sure I have created the quote correctly?
Your quote should be created with Windows Vista Home Basic Edition as the operating system. If you are unable to select Windows Vista Home Basic as the operating contact our vendor rep for assistance. With some models, Windows Vista Home Basic may not be an available option, in which case the least-expensive preinstalled operating system may be selected instead.
Does this policy apply to all computer purchases?
Although this policy applies to most computers purchased, there are exceptions. When a computer will not be imaged by a Computing Consultant, this program does not apply to your purchase and you should order the appropriate operating system you desire. After conferring with your Computing Consultant, create your Purchase Requisition indicating "No LTS Imaging" on the form so that Purchasing enters the correct commodity code.
What if I set up and support my own computer or use LINUX, UNIX, etc.
See "Does this policy apply to all computer purchases?"
What if I am ordering an Apple Mac?
LTS does not currently image Macs, so this ordering procedure does not apply. Lehigh's Microsoft Campus Agreement license does allow for the installation of Windows XP Professional into Boot Camp or virtual machine on Intel Macs. Contact your Computing Consultant for details.
last updated 20080815 dbp0