CompuServe Messages

Hi Pat! I think I'll just reiterate what KenF said – go with Novell (3.11 is fine) – even if you do go NT, Novell makes it better. I have used/abused Lantastic and AIX – I like Novell. As stated, 10baseT is superb, but keep to Category 5. We use isolated wiring closets with all rack mount patch panels – you can even put patch panels in the labs if needed. I buy all my patch cords – we pay $7 for a 10' cat. 5 with RJ45s or $3 for a 3' one. I use 110 punch down terminations on the harmonicas and data poles – still meets Cat. 5 but faster than other methods. Data poles – we run 6 jacks in a data/power pole so you can cluster 6 workstations at a time. We found that wall jacks are a pain. You could also run a $ubfloor $ystem. I recommend the EISA servers with a SCSI drive as well – minimum 16Mb RAM. I'm now installing my fourth network this year with another to go – it isn't all that difficult as Ken said. We are running Windows 3.1 on the local drives with program items being called from the server – flawless to date. DOS Acad is a bit trickier – you have to take care of passwords – I can email you the details if/when you need them. We are using Intel internal hubs on the servers and Intel FlashC NICs – can't recommend them enough! 3Com and others have similar h/w. The cards are self configuring – what a dream! Take care John