Last month Microsoft introduced Windows Vista. This is their first new client
operating system in over five years. So the next question is “Should I upgrade?”
If you plan to purchase a new computer soon, “Should I purchase Vista, or stay
with Windows XP?”
With regards to compatibility with your Advantage software, we have already had
several users install Advantage on Vista computers and all is fine. However
there are typically many other components that make up your computer system
besides just your Advantage software. You need to make sure that other devices
such as printers, scanners, network equipment, etc. is compatible with the new
operating system. Also check other software applications that you run.
For network users, the new computer must “talk” to the existing computers
on your network.
Vista also comes in several different flavors. Windows Vista Business is
the version that most clinics will implement. This is also the version that
will come pre-installed on business class computers.
As a general rule, VETECH is in no hurry to suggest you rush
out and upgrade to Vista. Windows XP is very stable, and very compatible
with existing hardware and software. We certainly would not recommend
upgrading existing computers to Vista, unless they are very modern and
exceed the minimum specifications for Vista. For new computers, we will
wait at least another couple months to endorse Vista. This will give all the
opportunity to fully test this new version.
