University Computing Center

"Some departments may opt for purchasing a PC outright," say Likness. "Others may consider purchasing a PC compatibility card."

Likness suggests considering the following before buying:

• What models of Macintosh is the department using? Some Macintoshes use different "expansion slots" to allow a PC Card to be added. Most cards are identified by the kind of slot that they use. Computer Equipment Services (CES) can help the department to determine this.

• Is the department trying to connect to one of the large University databases? If the PC Card is to be used as a way of connecting to a Windows-only database in the University, it will likely need to have network access through the PC Compatibility Card. This is provided, with most of the recently manufactured PC cards, depending on the model of the computer and some allow access on the computer to Mac and OPC platforms at the same time.

• What Cards are available that will eventually allow you to upgrade to Windows NT? Right now, many of the cards that are available are not supporting Windows NT as an operating system. Currently there is only one PC card that is advertised as being upgradeable or that can be used with Windows NT, right from the box. OrangeMicro manufactures the model 500 series PC Cards and promises that it can be used with Windows NT, as long as that operating system is specified at purchase.

• Who on campus is supporting these PC Cards? Currently the University Computing Center (UCC) is providing support for PC compatibility cards on campus.

For more information, call Likness, X5-2811. UCC provides free support to faculty, students, and staff of the College, and 15 minutes of free telephone support to Medical Center, Eastman School, and the Warner School.

For online information on PC cards, try http://home.earthlink.net/~jawagner, http://www.reply.com, or http://www.orangemicro.com/.