28 October 2009
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Microsoft Windows 7 release
The release of Microsoft Windows 7 to the general market was widely publicised last week. Please be aware that Windows 7 upgrades are available to Government agencies via the Microsoft Large Account Reseller Panel (Contract 2311).
Does your current system support Windows 7?
If your agency is contemplating purchasing the upgrade to Windows 7 it is recommended that you download the genuine Windows 7 upgrade advisory tool. The tool scans your system for potential upgrade issues, offering a report detailing system requirements and any potential compatibility issues. The report provides instructions on what may be done to address any issues identified. The Windows 7 upgrade advisor tool can be accessed here.
Upgrading to Windows 7
Upgrading from Windows XP to Windows 7:
Upgrading from Windows XP requires a fresh installation. It is therefore highly recommended that all important files are backed up before commencing the installation.
 
XP Mode does not ship with Windows 7, but it is available as a free download. Please be aware that if you are currently running Windows XP, then the 'XP' mode that is available (as a download) from Microsoft may not work on your PC. It requires a CPU with virtualisation capabilities. To learn if your system is capable of running the XP mode, please visit the Windows site here.
 
Upgrading from Windows Vista to Windows 7:
There are a number of different upgrade paths available:
  • Windows Vista Home Premium to Windows 7 Home Premium
  • Windows Vista Business to Windows 7 Professional
  • Windows Vista Ultimate to Windows 7 Ultimate 
To download more details about the supported and unsupported upgrade paths, please click here.
Purchasing a new PC with Windows 7 pre-installed

Agencies can now obtain new PCs with Windows 7 pre-installed via the OEM (System builder) channel. There are several versions of Windows 7 available. Depending on the functionality and features required, agencies need to notify the vendor as to which version of Windows 7 needs to be installed prior to purchase. A full listing of the versions of Windows 7 and their functionality may be found here.

Contract ITS2007 includes vendors contracted for the supply of PC, notebooks and servers. Further details regarding the purchase of the OEM version of Windows 7 using the ITS2007 contract may be found here.
Purchasing upgrade licenses to Windows 7
Contract 2311 includes vendors contracted for the supply of Microsoft licenses. Further details regarding the purchase of upgrades to Windows 7 using c2311 can be found here.

For any other enquiries please contact the NSW Procurement Client Support Centre on 1800 NSW BUY (1800 679 289) or email nswbuy@services.nsw.gov.au.
Post-installation hints
  
Windows 7 stores your data files in different locations (compared to Windows XP). The XP folder "C:Documents and Settings" is now "C:Users".
    
The Windows 7 installation program moves all of your old folders to the "C:Windows.old" folder.
    
Music, Pictures and Videos folders sit beside My Documents rather than inside it.
 
For a list of FAQs please visit this Microsft website.
State Contracts carry an average 1.4% Supplier Management Fee

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