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Hi everyone, Long time Google-searcher, first time poster. We're in need of some new IWBs to replace a faulty AP6 from 2018 (of course we get a breakdown just after the warranty expired!) with OPS-G and some new classrooms that have been split in half. It seems promethean have 3 models right now, the AP9, AP9 Premium, and the APLX. Our current quotes are for the AP9 but with the notably lower price on the APLX (over £1,000 less!) I'm wondering if it's any good, given the functionality seems similar to that of the AP6, especially once you add on the OPS-A to get Android. We're a primary school, so we don't need tons of special features as most of the time the IWBs are connected to a PC with ActivInspire, but having access to Google Play on the OPS-G allows for teachers to install games/YouTube/Netflix for wet play and parties, and with the AP9 series just saying "ActivPanel OS", it's unclear if they're running Android and can have GMS enabled through the Panel Management or if they aren't as smart as the Elements series were, with just the whiteboard/timer/spinner apps that are on the OPS-A anyway. The only issue when researching is that there's no public information that isn't either selling the product or advertising from Promethean. Has anyone used the APLX in their school and have opinions to share?

I'm sure we can all pick holes in this set of standards for all the Hardware and backend systems need in a modern Primary, Secondary and MAT. But it does present some interesting points of reference if wanting to convince SLT or Governors for the need for hardware replacement or Cyber security etc https://www.nen.gov.uk/advice/standard-network-design/ My personal gripe is I would not recommend 5 years warrantee on a chromebook as that would cost as much as the chromebook itself....

I am managing a mainly Windows-based network and have been using an M1 MacBook Pro for a while. What laptops are other Network Managers / Technicians preferences? Any decent Windows recommendations? I love the battery life and efficiency but regular remote sessions and remoting into RSAT etc largely defeats the point of using the Mac as the main machine.

We are looking to replace our ageing Meru wireless system, comprising 1 x MC1500 controller and 10 x Access points. Has anyone gone through the same process recently and would recommend a suitable wireless manufacturer? Many thanks.

Hi there, We're looking at some potential installs, anyone happen to have any recommendations for AV installers based in the North East of England? We'd probably be looking at interactive screens rather than projectors. Any recommendations very much welcome Cheers

Hi All, Would anyone be able to recommend an AV installer for the London area? We have a new build project at a school (about 15 classroom/T&L areas) and I am looking for suppliers to tender for the AV work (IWBs/Projectors/Digital Signage etc). I already have 2 recommendations but could do with one more from people in the know... Many thanks in advance.

Hi, I know this is probably a ridiculous/novice question, but... How much of the Becta guidelines are requirements that we as NMs have to adhere to/follow? or are they all recommendations that if we have other methods for doing things are perfectly acceptable? Thanks

Hello, all.. The powers that be are looking to invest in some new printers, and have asked for our 2p worth. We'll obviously be looking at the tech specs, but I'd be very interested in any reports "from the field", as it were - since tech specs have been known to be "absolute best case scenario" They've shortlisted the following - one will be a smaller workhorse spec, and one a larger one. Does anyone have any good/bad experience with any of these? Samsung ML-3750ND Samsung ML-6510ND Xerox Phaser 3250DN Xerox Phaser 4620DT Lexmark MS410dn A4 Lexmark MS812dtn HP Laserjet P3015dn HP Laserjet Enterprise 600 M603xh Brother Printer HL6180DWTv Brother HL-2270DW I'm not particularly fussed if one is 1 ppm quicker or anything like that - we're more interested in trying to establish "proper" technical things like the drivers: Proper X86/X64 driver support - no Universal bobbins, thanks - the HP universal put me off for life No background services needed to work the things! We'll be setting some up as shared printers on (most likely) 2008 R2, hence the driver concerns. The Xerox phasers already have me concerned, courtesy of Mr AT's blog about how much toner the colour ones were retaining while saying they were empty. Also the cost of the toners is likely to be a factor. And - of course - reliability. Any feedback gratefully appreciated!! Gerard

HI I was just wondering if anyone could recommend any good Wireless Access Points for use in a large primary school? Ideally they should be easy to set up and the cheaper the better :-) We have laptops and iPads which these would be used for. Any recommendations appreciated. Andy

Hi All, I narrowed following companies down as perspective suppliers for the next 3 years internet access and what to know your experiences with them; good, bad or indifferent (and why pls): 1. SchoolBroadband (Talk-Straight) 2. RM 3. Oakford 4. Exa Networks Any information, experience, etc would be greatly appreciated. -Ken