The Lab’s Computing Infrastructure Support (CIS) and Information Systems and Services (ISS) departments are currently testing Windows2000 Professional (the desktop version of the Windows2000 operating system) to see how well it interfaces with other applications supported by the two departments.

“We have a combined list of over 50 items to check,” said Charlie Verboom, desktop support manager for the Lab. “These range from applications like FMS and HRIS to Pcard, LETS, IRIS, and other commonly used ISS applications. We are also conducting tests on lesser known but equally important programs that impact Accounts Payable and other key organizations at the Lab.”

From an infrastructure point of view, Windows2000 is being tested with the newest Novell Client, a range of email and browser clients, the current Steltor Corporate Time calendar client as well as the older Netscape calendar client, and a variety of printing scenarios that involve UNIX distributed printing and Novell Queue/NDPS printing.

In parallel with these tests, CIS and ISS are also reviewing all supported desktop applications for compatibility with Windows2000. Older versions of software are being checked when possible (so customers can be advised if an investment in a new version of software will be necessary). “We have also decided to test products we know are popular, like Dreamweaver, Exceed, Visual Messenger, Timbuktu, FileMaker Pro and so on,” Verboom said.

Based on preliminary test results, CIS and ISS feel that Windows98 should remain the preferred system for administrative users at the present time. Although it appears that the key PeopleSoft applications (FMS, HRIS) will now work, not all vendors have announced support. Locally written software like WebLETS and Janus have passed the test. The next stage in the testing is to launch a beta test phase with selected users of these applications.

“We would also be interested in assisting researchers with the testing of commonly used scientific software – Labview, for example,” Verboom said. “If you have a special request to test a product you know is used at the Lab, let us know by submitting a suggestion.”