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End of Year Technology Checklist


Before you leave for the summer:

  • Do not unplug your computer or turn off its power strip. If they are unplugged we cannot remotely turn them on.
  • Connect your original corded keyboard and mouse if you use a wireless keyboard and mouse, we will need them when imaging.
  • Remove any papers, toys, magnets or knickknacks from the top of your computer, we will need to open it to blow out the dust.
  • Be sure your Google account is syncing in Chrome so that your bookmarks and passwords will be retained for next year.
  • Save your documents and files to your “H” drive – especially those that you have saved to your desktop or hard drive.
  • Chromebooks, iPads, laptops and other mobile devices should be stored securely in the media center, turned off and unplugged ideally with a battery charge of at least 80%. If you have permission to bring home any school owned staff devices for the summer, you will be responsible for their safe return. No student based devices should be taken home during the summer.

FAQ:
Why do we image computers every summer?

  • Updates: Windows updates, Novell updates, network updates, software updates, Bios updates, driver updates.
  • Fixes: To fix problems that have been identified from the previous image and have since been fixed.
  • Speed and stability: As computers get used, they store temporary files, cache files, cookies, user profiles, malware, adware, spyware, which gradually slow the machines down.
  • New Features: To add software or features that could benefit people or generally make life easier.
  • Uniformity: Having the same image on all of a specific model of computer makes the diagnosis of problems faster and more predictable.

What is imaging?

  • It is how we can set up a computer from a blank slate to a working fully functional computer in less than an hour.
  • An image includes an operating system (Windows) and any and all software used at LAS.
  • We have images for every make and model of computer in this district.
  • It's how we can support 1200+ computers with a limited staff.

What happens when my computer is imaged?

  • It completely erases any data currently on the computer by doing what is called a disk “Format”.
  • We then copy the master image that we have created, tested and has been approved for the upcoming year.
  • An image is based on the model of computer, for instance, all staff district-wide use HP Elitedesk 800 model.
  • Software other than MS Office is expected to be installed by the person using the computer. (located in “Installers” in “Lowell Staff Applications” on your desktop)
  • Printers are expected to be installed by the person using the computer (using iprint from the application launcher) As we are unable to anticipate who uses which printer and what the default may be.


*If you find you are missing software after the imaging process, please fill out a Tech. request.

end_of_year_checklist.txt · Last modified: 2019/05/20 08:03 by jasonw