Vista to be available soon via TTU Options

[pebkac]

Over the last year, we have received numerous requests for the Windows Vista operating system. We have worked with Microsoft and at this time they have resolved the compatibility issues with software provided by the TTU IT Division under its site license agreements. After extensive testing and negotiation, the TTU IT Division will release Microsoft Vista to the TTU community on Monday, January 21, 2008. Two versions of Microsoft Vista are available:


• For faculty/staff campus users, Microsoft Vista Enterprise may be downloaded from the eRaider site to campus machines (http://eraider.ttu.edu).

Please note: installing Vista Enterprise on a non-campus, personal machine violates the terms of the Microsoft Campus Agreement. The resulting failed activation attempts will cause the system to default to Reduced Functionality Mode (RFM).


• For students and faculty/staff work-at-home users, Microsoft Vista Ultimate may be purchased for $10 in the ATLC (west basement of the University library).

Microsoft Vista uses considerably more system resources than previous operating systems, so please make sure your system meets the minimum system requirements before upgrading. Faculty/staff campus users are strongly encouraged to consult with their local IT support providers before upgrading their computers (or ordering new computers) with Microsoft Vista. We also highly recommend that individuals considering this upgrade review our FAQs beforehand at http://www.depts.ttu.edu/helpcentral/vista/.

This information is provided for those that are interested in upgrading to the Windows Vista operating system, there is no requirement for anyone to upgrade at this time. Windows XP Professional will continue to be supported by Microsoft and the IT Division of TTU.

Microsoft media purchases are available to TTU students, faculty, and staff, according to the terms of the Microsoft Campus Agreement. As with all site licensed software, you must sign a license agreement and present photo identification at the time of purchase. Please note that purchases must be made with cash or check only—at this time we are unable to accept credit card payment.

If you have any questions regarding Vista, please visit the Vista Web site at http://www.depts.ttu.edu/helpcentral/vista/. For other questions or for further information regarding Microsoft software sales, please contact IT Help Central at (806) 742- HELP (4357).

One question though... what's the difference between Vista Enterprise and Vista Ultimate?