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Issue #27-8.28.07
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Choosing an Operatory Computer
In the last issue of The Dentist’s Network newsletter, I examined the options for choosing a server, the heart and soul of the practice’s network. However, most of the day-to-day work is done in the treatment rooms, and the choice of computer for those rooms is equally important. There are a number of factors to consider for these systems. We will focus only on desktop-style computers; the argument of desktop vs. a laptop or Tablet will be left for another article. Also keep in mind that this is being written in early August, 2007: the technology is changing rapidly and may be slightly outdated by the time you read this.
It’s important to understand that there is a reason that operatory computers cost more: it’s because they have higher requirements than the computer you use at home to surf online and check email. Be very cautious of those ‘special” deals you see offered all the time from computer vendors. In almost all cases, the computers are underpowered and have poor warranties. The only thing you really gain from a cheap computer is the fact that you’ll need to replace it sooner: hardly a “win-win” in my book.
Computer Case Design
Most of us are familiar with the older desktop or upright mini-tower designs. In the operatory, however, space is often at a premium and in many cases, a small-form-factor computer makes the most sense. These computers come in multiple designs. Some are very thin and long are look like two laptops stacked on top of each other, such as the Dell Optiplex 745 SFF.
Processor
The latest buzz in the computing industry are processors that can perform multiple functions at the same time by having two or more processing cores on the same chip. The current processors that are recommended for operatory computers are dual-core chips called the Core 2 Duo, but expect quad-core processors to become the standard in a year or so.
Memory
When discussing memory, there are two types of memory that are occasionally mixed-up: RAM (Random Access Memory) and Hard Drive capacity. The confusion lies in the fact that hard drive sizes are expressed in gigabytes of RAM. Usually, when we are talking about memory, we refer to the RAM, the internal memory that loses all information when the computer is turned off. For a dental operatory, I recommend a minimum of 1 GB of RAM and 2 GB is even better as Windows Vista will require this. For the hard drive, 40 GB is more than adequate. In almost all offices, the workstations will not be storing any practice management or image data on their hard drives, and this data will instead be stored on the server, so there’s little reason to pay extra for a120 GB or larger hard drive for an operatory workstation.
Operating System
Windows XP Professional is the ideal choice for the office environment. It contains many features not found in XP Home, such as the ability to automatically log into certain types of networks, and Remote Desktop, which allows you to log into the computer from home or anywhere else in the world. However, the core of Professional and Home are identical, so any program that runs on Professional should run identically on Home as well. As mentioned in a previous article, Windows Vista is still not compatible with many dental programs so I do not recommend it at this time, although you won’t be able to buy a new computer with XP after January, 2008.
Warranty
Ideally, you should purchase a computer with a warranty that is equal to the amount of time that you plan on owning the computer. With the ever-changing nature of technology, most offices will find that three years is the expected life-span of these computers. The computers will still run beyond three years, but will have trouble keeping up with the applications available at that time.
Dentists should take the time to choose computers based on their current and future needs, rather than looking at the cost of the systems as the most important feature.
Lorne Lavine, DMD is the Founder and President of Dental Technology Consultants. Dr. Lavine holds two prestigious certifications, the A+ Certified Technician designation and the Network+ Certified Professional. These designations demonstrate proficiency in computer repair, operating systems, network design and installation. Dental Technology Consultants provide dentists a full range of services relating to the implementation of technology.
Dr. Lavine can be reached directly at 1.866.204.3398.
Interested in speaking to Dr. Lavine about your technology concerns? Email him at Drlavine@thedentistsnetwork.net
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