I have wrote about this topic before, but I am seeing more and more users buying a new PC for one reason or another and having problems. Much of this is driven by Windows 7 on the desktop and new browser hype.
I was recently called to a site that replaced 2 of their PC’s. The new PC’s had Windows 7 installed and they needed help with a few things like transferring data, setting up printers and applications. Once on-site, I spoke to the user of the new PC they have been using it for about a week and were still dealing with a few things that would not work.
Their biggest problem was not being able to use their office printer/scanner/copier functions. They were able to print, but nothing else. After a little research, I determined that the copier in question did not have drivers for Windows 7 for the the full functionality of the copier. To further complicate the problem, the version of Windows 7 (home) did not have the ability to run "XP Mode". In this case, the options are to upgrade the copier to something that fully supports Windows 7, or upgrade Windows 7 to a version that supports "XP Mode" (Professional and Ultimate), or use another computer that is running Windows XP that has full functionality. This left them with the possibility of spend more money to make everything work and the time delay involved..
As mentioned in a previous blog, BEFORE upgrading your Windows to Windows 7 or buying a new PC with Windows 7, check ALL of your hardware and software to be sure you will be able to use what you need when you need it. It is also a good idea if you are going to Windows 7, at least get the "Professional" version that supports "XP Mode", so that the older equipment may at least have a chance of working in "XP Mode"
Also mentioned before, is that CCS can still get brand new PC’s with Windows XP that have the option to upgrade to Windows 7 when the rest of your infrastructure is ready. This is called downgrading. By downgrading, you will have the option to install Windows 7 at a later time on the PC.
If you have any compatibility questions, or questions in general, call the CCS Retail Systems Support Department at 800-672-4806 or email_us.
-Bryan 