[Ares-races] Windows + Experience = Bad

Wed, 13 Mar 2002 17:26:38 -0600

With due respect Bob, Martin and the list; other than knowing how to reboot
the system when neccessary the users shouldn't have to concerned with the OS
at all.  Their only need is to know how to operate the application not the
OS.  When it comes to placing permanent packet facilities I plan on using
DOS with YAPP and hide the mouse.  Fewer crashes as compared to windows and
can be rebooted by merely cycling the power switch and again compared to
windows reboot is faster.  Operation of the YAPP application is straight
forward and placing a simple cheat sheet will do for reminding users.  This
way I can make use of inexpensive and donated surplus computers not owned by
any government agency not subject to borrowing.  Another option I haven't
researched fully is the use of dumb ternininals that can support newer
printers.  73--Doug, N0LKK
----- Original Message -----
From: "Bob Burns K4RXR" <[email protected]>
To: <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 11, 2002 3:35 PM
Subject: Re: [Ares-races] Windows + Experience = Bad

: At 09:44 AM 3/11/02, Martin T. Focazio - KC2CXH wrote:
:
: >Most ham radio operators will be able to learn the basics of Linux in
: >about a week.
:
: Marty's comments about OS reliability are valid. However, I really think
we
: need to consider the users.
:
: A few years ago, I volunteered to set up computerized logging for my
club's
: Field Day operation. I picked one of the popular DOS-based logging
: programs, set up three laptop computers (two operating positions plus one
: back up) with the software, and let the contacts roll up.
:
: Wrong!
:
: Most of our members were not contesters, were not familiar with logging
: programs, and new nothing about DOS. The logs were a mess. It took several
: evenings of hair-pulling to get things straightened out. I blamed most of
: the problems on the user-surlyness of the logging program. But a big part
: of the problem was DOS.
:
: Most of today's computer users know Windows and nothing else. DOS is
: something they've heard us OFs talk about and Linux simply befuddles them.
:
: My opinion is that for an ARES packet system to be of any value, it has to
: be very simple and easy to use. Given the knowledge level of most users,
: that would tend to steer me towards a Windows solution.
:
: Bob...
:
: Please help QSL.NET by sending a donation now.
:
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