Windows 7 Support
October 20, 2009
Windows 7 is now available for purchase and is beginning to ship on some new computers. As the new Operating System becomes more available, how should you evaluate what system is right for you?
Compatibility:
In evaluating any software, including the next Operating System, the first stop in the decision making process is to evaluate hardware and software intercompatibility. For Windows 7, we recommend a minimum of 4 Gb of RAM (MS recommends at least 1 Gb RAM), and a 2.8 Ghz or higher dual core (or higher) processor. As with other versions of Windows, a mid-range graphics card with at least 256 Mb of RAM and support for at least DirectX 9 is important.
The ITU has created and will support several standard Dell models in the 2009-2010 year. These models are configured to also allow for current/future Windows 7 support.
Software: Windows 7 appears to have much improved software support over Windows Vista, however, some caution is advised to early adopters who also have more specialized and/or non-standard applications. We are working with ACCC, ADDA teams, and others to determine what software is Windows 7 certified, what will work with Windows 7 but is not necessarily 'certified', and what software is not compatible. As we learn more, we will add it to our web site.
When to Upgrade?
We recommend moving to Windows 7 when offered on the purchase of a new computer, especially when your software needs are primarily email, web browsing, and MS Office applications. These applications are known to work perfectly well in a Windows 7 environment. If you use more non-standard applications, please contact us or create a Service Request.
For most existing computers, we recommend retaining the current Operating System. There may be valid exceptions, particularly if there are ongoing software or hardware compatibility issues. Please feel free to contact us to discuss the many considerations in upgrading. Often, it is best to wait until the next hardware upgrade to ensure genuine compatibility, as most hardware platforms (PC) are now designed with the hardware and software drivers for compatibility with a single OS.
Printers, scanners, and external peripherals or devices such as lab equipment may also not be compatible or controllable, so we can work with you and/or your vendor to assist you in making an upgrade decision.
IT Support
The UIC College of Pharmacy IT Unit will continue to provide Tier I support for Windows XP, Vista, and 7 throughout 2010 on existing, warrantied computers. We will re-evaluate this support in July, 2010 for the 2011 calendar year.
We will provide Tier I support for new computers purchased through the IT Unit (standard models) with the standard (e.g. extended) warranty and setup times within 1 week of arrival to the IT Unit. Additional setup time may be required for non-standard equipment or unsupported software. Due to additional time required to setup non-standard equipment, additional delays may also be incurred due to specialized support requirements. Although some non-standard hardware/software is unsupported, many non-standard hardware and software options may qualify for Tier II or Tier III support.