Windows Vista

On January 30, 2007, Microsoft released WINDOWS VISTA, its first major revision to its operating system in years.

Together with Infinite Source, WCA’s Online Planroom provider, we have discovered that Windows Vista does not support Java 1.5 or less, the program that enables the Online Planroom's Source Viewer application. (The Source Viewer allows WCA members to view plans online.)

To rectify the situation, Infinite Source has made a modification to the way Source Viewer handles Java so that it will work with Windows Vista.

Infinite Source has also determined that HP Instant Print is not compatible with Windows Vista. Unfortunately, Infinite Source is required to wait for HP to release a new version that will work with Windows Vista, and has assured WCA that they will update the system as soon as the new version is available.

At present, many external devices, equipment and software are not yet supported by Windows Vista. To determine if your system is capable of running Windows Vista, use the free Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor tool from Microsoft located HERE.

 

WCA members considering an upgrade to their current computer infrastructure will find that there will be few systems with an operating system other that Windows Vista. Many major retailers are now only offering Windows Vista, and in fact, Dell Computers online web store will not allow any choice other that Windows Vista.

Before upgrading or switching to Windows Vista, carefully evaluate the resources available with your present equipment, and verify that all devices intended to make use of Windows Vista have documented and available Windows Vista drivers and support. This also includes any productivity software installed as well as any custom applications designed to work with current infrastructure.

At this time, WCA supports a “wait and see” attitude with Windows Vista and only recommends Windows Vista to fully versed and advanced computer users.

Windows Vista has five different versions:

1. Home Basic (replaces Windows XP Home)
2. Home Premium (replaces Windows XP Media Centre)
3. Business (replaces Windows XP Professional)
4. Ultimate
5. Enterprise

For more information on Windows Vista versions, please visit the Microsoft Vista homepage at: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/default.mspx.

If you have any questions regarding this article, please contact Darcy Baxter at dbaxter@wpgca.com.

Darcy Baxter has been a Microsoft Certified Professional and CompTia A+ certified professional since 2003. Currently, Darcy works in an information technology support capacity with the Winnipeg Construction Association.

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Rotary Career Symposium: Volunteers Needed!

The Winnipeg Construction Association is once again hosting a Trade Up! Careers in Manitoba Construction booth at the Rotary Career Symposium, an event designed to provide valuable information about various education and employment options available to students in Senior 1 through Senior 4.

With Manitoba's construction climate at an all-time high, skilled tradespeople are in high demand. The need to reach students who are considering their career options has never been greater. Help us promote careers in Manitoba construction by volunteering for a shift at this year's symposium, April 11 & 12, 2007.

To participate, contact Twila Driedger, Communications Coordinator, at tdriedger@wpgca.com or 775-8664 ext. 2242.

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Education News

 

WCA proudly presents the following seminar sessions:

*Space Still Available!*

February 28 - March 1, 2007 (8 a.m. - 4 p.m.)

Blue Print Reading Fundamentals

Red River College

Instructor: Jerry Johnstone

Unsure how to read a construction drawing? This introductory course will provide an overview of the content and organization of a set of commercial construction drawings. Learn how to use the various symbols and conventions to find interpret information. Typical architectural, structural, mechanical and electrical content will be covered but with an architectural/structural emphasis.

WCA member cost: $330.00 + gst

Blue Print Reading Fundamentals Registration Form

*Space Still Available!*

February 28 - March 3, 2007 (8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.)

Construction Estimating

Red River College

Instructor: Murray Cliff

WCA member cost: $330.00 + gst

Construction Estimating Registration Form

*Space Still Available!*

March 1 & 2, 2007 (8 a.m. - 4 p.m.)

Construction Law & Contracts

Red River College

Instructor: Jason Coreau

WCA member cost: $330.00 + gst

Construction Law & Contracts Registration Form

March 8, 9, 15, 16, 17, 2007 (8 hours each day)

Master Electrician License Requirements Course

Victoria Inn Hotel & Convention Center, Winnipeg

Instructor: John Miller, Certified Electrical Inspector

Course length is 40 hours. (Five days, eight hours each day, over a two week period.) A three hour exam will follow on March 22, 2007.

March 14 , 2007 (12 noon - 1 p.m. Lunch Provided)

Simplified Banking for Business

Presented by: Assante Capital Management

Winnipeg Construction Association

Simplified Banking for Business Registration Form

March 21, 2007 (8 a.m. - 12 noon)

LEED for Contractors

Hilton Winnipeg Suites, Airport

Presented by: WCA and Canada Green Building Council

LEED for Contractors Registration Form

May 2007 - TBA

Project Scheduling

June 2007 - TBA

Blueprint Reading Level 2

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_________________________________________

 

Email: wca@wpgca.com

 

Visit our full website at www.wpgca.com

Winnipeg Construction Association is located at

290 Burnell Street, Winnipeg, MB  R3G 2A7

(204)775-8664

Copyright of Winnipeg Construction Association © 2007. 

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