Supported Systems

The systems supported by the EMSL Computer and Network Services group include Macintosh and DOS/Windows/NT systems that are owned and/or used by staff contributing to the EMSL project as well as Unix systems that are registered and contributing to the EMSL Unix Computer Support Service Center. UNIX architectures that are supported currently include IBM AIX, SGI IRIX, and SUN SOLARIS. Customary services are provided for these systems; extended services are provided on a work package and time available basis.

Equipment Classification and Costs

Operations and support services are dependent on equipment class. Each equipment item is associated with one of the following categories:

Network Server - Equipment providing shared Unix network services (e.g., AFS file servers). There are no user accounts on these systems.
Super Server - General computing resource shared by a broad range of users. Usually a large, multi-processor system that is critical resource for large group of users.
Work Group Server - General computing resource shared by multiple users. Typically used to support scientific computing
Desktop Workstation - Primarily a single-user desktop resource. Other user accounts may be available for infrequent use.
Instrumentation - Computing equipment that is part of a laboratory instrumentation system.
Non-Production - Computing equipment used in the laboratory for prototying or testing

Support costs are dependent on the equipment classification and are set annually by the Computer and Network Services (CaNS) manager with approval of the Computer Resources Committee.

EMSL Computer Support services are covered by several budgets. Baseline Macintosh and PC services are covered through EMSL's overhead budgets and are essentially free. Likewise, infrastructure systems and services, such as the network, DCE/DFS/AFS services, etc., are funded via the EMSL Operations budget at no direct cost to users.

Support for EMSL Unix systems is funded through a chargeback Service Center. A monthly fee for each system goes into a pool that is used to pay for support staff and equipment. Lists of current rates and supported systems are maintained on line in a restricted-access area.

New Equipment

CaNS reviews specifications for major computing equipment acquisitions to ensure equipment meets EMSL standards for operating system and network compatibility. CaNS provide a member of Source Evaluation Panels for major ADPE purchases. Similarly, CaNS involved in decision making process when major redirections in workstation computing strategy are involved. A minimum two weeks advanced notice of equipment delivery is required so that staff activities can be scheduled to avoid unnecessary conflicts.

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