Queensland's Department of Natural Resources and Water (DNRW) is about to refresh 750 computers, but Windows Vista does not figure in its plans.
As part of its three year refresh policy, DNRW wants to replace 250 desktops, laptops and servers over each of the next three years. Dell and HP are the incumbent vendors.
While the replacement coincides with the launch of Microsoft's new Windows Vista operating system, the agency's request for tender stated that Windows XP Professional be the standard OS.
Agency requirements for the new desktops include: Pentium IV 3.4GHz or AMD equivalent, dual processor capable, 4GB memory, and dual 160GB SATA drive. The desktops must also have a 19" TFT monitor.
The tender did not state the current OS used at the agency.
DNRW staff currently use either Dell Optiplex or Compaq EVO desktops, with a Pentium IV 1.8GHz chip, 256MB RAM, 40 GB hard disk and 17" CRT monitor.
The agency also required two sorts of laptops: mobile workstation and lightweight. The former must have Pentium IV 2.0GHz and the latter 1.8GHz (or AMD equivalent). Both must run Windows XP Professional.
On the server side, the agency required tower models with rack mount options. This would include Intel Xeon 3.4GHz (or AMD equivalent), be dual processor capable, and run Windows Server 2003.
The agency is looking for up to two vendors to provide the computers "to ensure continuity of supply and to provide an ongoing competitive environment", according to tender documents.
Tenders close on November 29.
There are currently 4,500 desktop, laptop and workstations throughout the agency, as well as 200 servers. However, most of these will be replaced via the state's whole of government ICT desktop procurement invitation, proposed for 2007.
With the spec they are seeking for the desktop " Pentium IV 3.4GHz or AMD equivalent, dual processor capable, 4GB memory, and dual 160GB SATA drive. The desktops must also have a 19" TFT monitor." it sure looks like they are Vista capable. Are you sure they dont plan to move to it anytime soon. If not why all the beefed up hardware to run XP and a few LOB apps.