Workstations
Workstation Purpose
A workstation is a desktop or laptop computer you use for your work. Most people have only one but some have more than one that they use for different purposes. For the purposes of planning and budgeting we have defined several different categories:
- Primary workstation – the only one you have or the one you use for typical office automation tasks—email, word processing, spreadsheets, etc. Everyone who uses a workstation either has one primary workstation or uses a workstation shared with others
- Secondary workstations based at work are generally used for activities such as traveling or working at a different LBNL location, development, testing, or running a specific application
- Secondary workstations based at home are generally used by people who telecommute or work from home in the evenings or weekends
- Shared systems (e.g. a workstation used by a group of people instead of individual primary workstations or for presentations etc.)
- Special task systems dedicated to a specific task or application (e.g. check printing, keys database, work center phones, dosimetry)
(There are a number of other categories that are generally only applicable in IT: loaner pool; inventory; repair/parts pool; surplus; test equipment).
Workstation Configurations
The standard platform is Windows. If your manager agrees that you need a Linux, Mac or Solaris workstation to do your job effectively, these platforms are supported. Desktop management functions such as automated inventory and software deployment will be implemented only on Windows workstations initially. For a description of the current Windows standard desktop and laptops see http://www.lbl.gov/IT/computer-store/
When you get a new workstation it will come with the standard software loaded. For a description of the standard software load see http://www.lbl.gov/IT/CIS/home/info/standards/software.html
Your primary workstation will be replaced on a planned schedule (desktops every 4 years, laptops every 3 years) with the current standard workstation ( desktop or laptop) and standard software – you will be contacted when IT is ready to replace it – there is no need for you to take any action.
When the IT support person contacts about installing a new computer, please identify any additional hardware or software you will need. Your supervisor’s approval may be required. Original media or other proof of license will be required to transfer software from another computer.
If you have a workstation at home, it will not be supported except if you need help accessing web based Lab applications such as email, calendar or LETS. Lab owned workstations at home will not be replaced if they fail, unless your supervisor agrees there are special circumstances that require it. If you need to work frequently from home or from other locations, a laptop with docking station(s) may be recommended to replace your primary workstation. Borrowing a loaner laptop when needed is another alternative that may work for you.
Monitors
Your primary monitor will be replaced automatically approximately every 6 years. CRTs will be replaced first then flat panel monitors based on age and size. The standard monitor is a 19” flat panel.
Printers
Network connected Laserjet printers are supported. Inkjet printers are not supported.
All printers must be shared - personal printers are only supported for customers with a need for privacy and security (HR sensitive information, for example). If a new printer is needed, the appropriate HP Laserjet model will be selected based on your requirements for black and white or color, speed, etc.
Short-term Workstation Loans
Desktops can also be borrowed for short term needs. Please provide at least three days notice and contact the Help Desk: enter a web ticket at http://help/
Loaner laptops are available and can be reserved through Calendar.