Network Storage Solution

Based on the needs of the school and district support guidelines, we are proposing a Network Storage Solution. The Courreges computer lab definitely needs centralized data storage to allow students to access to their documents from any Macintosh in the lab. We also understand that the district's shortage of personnel to support an Apple server.  In my research, I found an emerging technology solution now being employed by small businesses called the Network Storage Solution.  I believe it would address the needs of the computer lab and also not introduce an additional load to district support.

We’re proposing purchasing the Buffalo Link Station – 250GB capacity priced $250 at Fry’s Electronics as the Network Storage Solution. It is the only manufacturer and model which supports the older Mac operating system of 9.X. Technical details are located at:

http://www.buffalotech.com/products/category-detail.php?categoryid=16

To the end user, they access the network storage using the Apple Chooser and Apple Share menus. Configuration is web based and relatively simple according to the documentation. The product also provides an Ethernet cable to connect to an existing network.

According to data sizing, each Macintosh in the lab accumulates about 20 MB of data. The total data storage requirement would be about 680MB per year in a lab of 34 Macs. The 250GB capacity system gives us the best price per GB, given that the 160GB system is $200, only a $50 difference. The system would meet today’s needs as well as the years to come.

The technical requirements for implementing the solution are as follows:

• An Ethernet port - preferably in the black cabinet mounted above in the room with the glass windows adjacent to the computer lab. I’m assuming that in the cabinet is where the main network hub resides, and that there should be an open port in there. The device comes with an Ethernet cable, so it’s ready to go. By putting it in the black glass cabinet, it also would be secured.

• IP Address – the device supports dynamic IP address, so if the school network uses DHCP, the unit would acquire its own IP address. If the district does not have DHCP, we would need a static IP address for the device.

• Configuration of the device – I would configure it, and then train Mary and Becky on how to configure it. I’d also be available to train Diane at her convenience.

• Creating a hierarchy of folders to manage student data by classrooms – I will create a script program which would automate generating the folders first by grade level, then by teacher and then by students.

• End user training – I would show Mary and Becky how to access the device. They will leverage the knowledge they already have using the Apple Choose and Apple Share menus. The students would be instructed that a new icon on the desktop would point them to the device to save their work.

We have support from Joyce Buehler, Mary Miller and Becky Guess to adopt this solution. I also believe, if this solution works well for Courreges, this would also be a cost effective solution for the other schools within the district who might be looking at centralizing data in their computer labs. Please let us know if this solution is acceptable to the district.  Thank you very much.

Computer Lab Upgrades

• Macintosh - 34 units will be receive an addition 512MB of memory during the first week of January 2006.

• Typing Software Refresh - 34 licenses of the Mavis Type Software will also be installed during the first week of January 2006.

• Network Storage Solution - will be installed during the first week of January 2006.

• Dedicated LCD projector and screen will be purchased and installed, pending District approval in location of the screen.