Guys,
I've been putting this thing off long enough.
I now need some help.
I'd like to start a business that involves the use of computers
in a small location that serves the public (A cybercafe').
I would appreciate any additional input here 9especially from
those who are either owners or major contributing partners
in their respective organizations).
I am also in need of funding sources (if you guys know of any
where grants may be issued, etc, please let me know)
I am looking at 2 alternatives so far as the hardware is concerned:
1. 25 workstations (diskless)
specifications (workstations):
memory: 256 megabytes
video; 8 megabytes or more
embedded linux os for loading Xwindows (or windows if need be)
on an ethernet backbone to a main server (100baseT).
Large monitors (17 inch or greater)
CPU: athelon 550 Mhz or higher
(on some machines I will include "special access technology"
for the visually impaired)
Alternative 2:
25 workstations (permanently mounted laptops)
built in HDD's (restricted access)
100BaseT ethernet with embedded linux OS
CPU: Athelon 550 Mhz or higher
Server:
CPU:Athelon 700 Mhz or greater
Memory: 512 megabytes or greater
HDD: Multiple 30 gigbye drives/RAID/SCSI
Standard vid adaptor (this is also the admin station)
OS: linux/BSD/SCO Unix/SUN Solaris/winNT
(any of these, but prefer *nix)
2 Ethernet adaptors (100BaseT or fiber interface)
other equipment: 50 way switch (100BaseT)
Routing panel
card reader
It has been suggested to me that I issue cards of prepaid time
(such as 30 minute, 60 minute, up to 1000 minutes) for various prices.
The cost is computed on a per-minute basis and the larger cards
would reflect a discount).
As always, location is important. since there are already 3 such
places around ASU, I plan to look elsewhere (such as central
Phoenix, downtown Phoenix, Downtown glendale and north glendale)
I am looking at possible bidquotes for both alternatives listed above
from local providers 9such as technology partners, pc-club, and others).
I am also looking at who would offer the best backbone service
(or should I go with more than one with an in-house peering
arrangement?), such as Cox, AT&T, QWEST, Sprint, MCI.
Let me know if I need to add anything to this.
I am trying to get this idea going as quickly as possible.
Thank you.
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