"It's important to note that not all PC systems are good candidates for XP upgrades," said Desktop Support Manager Charlie Verboom. "Although the decision to upgrade is ultimately based on what software the customer uses, we do not advise upgrading systems that have less than a Pentium 3, 800 Mhz processor with at least 256 Mb of memory."

Newer computers, including Micron PCs that have been bought in the past two years meet this criteria. Microns purchased through the Lab's Basic Ordering Agreement since June 1, 2002, include a license for XP, even if it wasn't installed.

"In addition, we do not recommend upgrading unless there is a specific reason to do so," Vermboom said. If you system isn't 'broken,' don't fix it. If you have an older machine that is working well, consider holding off on XP until you buy a replacement for your current machine."

If you are interested in upgrading now, here is a survey of prices from several popular vendors:

Verboom also points out that Lab employees cannot buy an upgrade from the UC Berkeley Scholar's Workstation using either a Lab purchase order or procurement credit card. According to the Scholar's Workstation Web site, the following eligibility restrictions are in place:

• LBL departments IF they have a UCB recharge account string.
  
• LBL purchase orders are not accepted.
  
• UC Procurement Card (ProCard) cannot be used at The Scholar's Workstation.
  

For more information about buying a Windows XP upgrade, contact the computer Support Help Desk at X4357.