Hardware+Selection

Prior to installing new technology, district leaders must consider the current network, the current budget, and the specifications of the hardware. Every classroom in ISD 191 has access to a local area network with 100 MB of connectivity. However, many classrooms in ISD 191 do not support multiple-computer Internet access. The classrooms have been equipped with only two Internet ports, one of which must be used for the telephone. ISD 191 does have a wireless Internet infrastructure that would support quality wireless access to the network.
 * Hardware Selection **

With some network limitations in mind, next it is important to consider the budget. Currently, there have been no district or schools funds set aside for the purchase of new classroom equipment in this current school year. Therefore, hardware selection is limited to a very low amount of money. To support this project, all funds will be raised outside of the organization itself through grants and some equipment will be accessed through recycled computers in previous ISD 191 computer labs.

After considering network capabilities and budget, leaders can begin to narrow down the hardware selection. Three recycled eMac computers are available immediately for classroom use, but they lack the ability to connect to the Internet wirelessly. In order to expand the network capabilities within the classroom, an Ethernet switch will be installed. Neither a router nor a hub would quite fit this project’s specific needs. The Ethernet switch specifically chosen for this project, Dynex 10/100M Fast Ethernet Switch, will provide more Internet ports in the classroom while maintaining the network speed and signal.

The three desktop computers are a step in the right direction in order to provide students with Internet accessibility. However, they are limited in their flexibility since they are desktops. In addition to the installation of the Ethernet switch and eMac computers, six tablet computers will be purchased for wireless Internet access within the classroom. These tablet computers will work toward further supporting the district goal of one to one student computing, as well as give students more mobility. There are many options when choosing a tablet such as the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1, the Motorola Xoom, and the Toshiba Thrive. All of which provide Internet access and application use. However, none of them quite compete with the database of applications and current quality of Apple’s iPad. Six [|Apple iPads] will be purchased for the classroom. A [|PowerSync Tray by Bretford] will be purchased as well for charging, storage, and syncing.

Figure 1.2 Breakdown of Total Budget
 * ** 6 16GB iPads (Including approximate accessory and application costs) ** || $500 x 6 =
 * $3,000** ||
 * ** Powersync Tray by Bretford ** || Approximately
 * $1,000 ** ||
 * ** Macbook Pro Refurbished ** || ** $968.90 ** ||
 * **Dynex 10/100M Fast Ethernet Switch** || **$13.95** ||
 * **3 Desktop eMac Computers** || $0 ||
 * ** Total Costs: ** || ** $4,982.95 ** ||