Appleton Ridge Technology Services, Inc.
Customer focused PC support &
education with personalized service.

John Fromer
Tel & Fax (207) 975-6995
Email: john@appletonridge.com

 This document explains how easy it can be for you to bring technology into your business.  From this page, you get information to make a buying decision. You will also see how I will help you make it all work together easily.

My goal is to build a lasting relationship with you to consistently provide advice and support so computers are easier to use and do more for your business. That's my expertise. I am also very patient and enjoy working with beginners and advanced IT people.

I will help you through the process of developing a plan and budget, integrating the technology into your business and support you afterwards. 

Expect a business systems last for 3-5 years with some upgrades and updating along the way. You should plan in your budget to upgrade utilities every year or two. Hardware upgrades tend to coincide with either software or operating system upgrades and either happen every year or sometime around the third year. You can extend their life when you reconfigure them for tasks beyond their original purpose. I will advise you along the way.

I can help you decide when upgrading an existing system is better than purchasing new. Sometimes, you may not be able to upgrade at all because software is too old and no longer compatible or an upgrade is not yet available or too expensive. Maybe what you have is working just fine. I can research the possibilities for you and make it easy to decide what to do.

It is important focus you decision making around how the system will be used.  In you purchase decision, plan for a system you can grow into as your responsibilities and business grow and change.

New computer come with Windows Vista and Internet Explorer 7. Some older applications and hardware do not work with either Vista or IE 7. Before you buy, call me and I will look at your systems and run a test to find out what needs to be done and how much it will cost. This will save a lot of time, money and frustration later on.

Information & Definitions
Here is some background information and  definitions:

	To show a list of typical business functions and software applications used to complete them.
	To show definitions/descriptions of the physical hardware that makes up your computer.
	To show definitions/descriptions for the things you don't see: Software, drivers, firmware, utilities and updates.

As your business grows, you may need a network to share data and peripherals like printers. A network makes these things easy and convenient. I have designed and supported networks for 18 years. Just give me a call and I can explain the choices and benefits to you.

Recommended Systems

Fortunately, you have choices when buying or upgrading a computer.  A good business system is designed to meet your needs, time frame and budget. Below are recommendations for a desktop and laptop. The list explains individual components, what they do and why their selection is important.

My recommendation on products is buy name brand from reputable manufactures and reputable distributors/retailers. 
HP/Compaq and Dell build the best computers for the money given their quality level of support. I can support any PC however my clients are happier with these manufactures.

The recommended systems are for intermediate users who like some power, convenience and comfort. For advanced systems, please call me and I will be happy to go over the options with you.

Business System Recommendations
For Desktops	For Laptops

Printers, Peripherals & Accessories

You will need extras like  a printer, ink, surge protector and disks to complete the package. It helps to budget for these items when deciding on a new system to avoid surprises. Plus, you may choose an all in one printer (printer, fax, scanner & copier) over individual components to save desk space and money.

Printers, Peripherals & Accessories

Installation, Integration, Connectivity and Data Transfer

It is helpful to know what to expect to do when your new system arrives. I can help you get started with a systems analyses to determine what you need and put together a budget. Then, I will install the systems, update any software, move your data and integrate the new systems into your network.

There are many steps to complete when integrating a new system. Please consider my services to help you manage this process. Depending on the complexity, it is reasonable to expect 2-3 hours to fully setup a system. With my help, you can save time, reduce frustration and invest in better, more usable technology. I've done this thousands of times and putting that experience to work for you will make a big difference!

Installation, Integration, Connectivity and Data Transfer

Thank you for taking time to read through this guide. I hope you have found it helpful. Please feel free to recommend this guide to other business people you know.  Contact me with any questions you may have at 975-6995. I look forward to being of service to you.

John Fromer
Business Systems Analyst

The fine print:
This guide gives you background information, definitions, suggestions and details about the integration of systems into your business. It is as accurate as possible. Your situation may require different technology applications such as hardware design, programs or security. Please use this guide as a point of departure into the discussion of creating a technology plan for your business.

John Fromer
Tel & Fax (207) 975-6995
Email: john@appletonridge.com