Introduction:
Voltage fluctuation issues in educational institutions happen often, which can lead to significant equipment and learning time losses. It’s important to consider effective solutions for protecting technology and saving budget.
Solving the problem:
Damage from voltage fluctuation in schools can be avoided. Here are 2 ways to solve surge issues:
Using solar batteries:
Installing solar panels on the school roof can be an alternative energy source, reducing reliance on grid power and protecting from surges.
Using UPS (uninterruptible power supplies):
UPS provides temporary power in case of power outage or sudden surge, allowing work to finish properly and save data.
However, additional measures to protect technology from voltage fluctuations are another expense. Saving on PCs in schools might lead to buying slow, used computers, which can harm learning quality. One school in Nepal found an original solution – use the ASTER program.
ASTER program from IBIK
ASTER is a multi-user extension for PCs based on Windows and Linux operating systems, allowing the creation of multiple workstations on one computer.
Reducing IT infrastructure costs with ASTER:
Saving on PC purchase: Using ASTER lets you decrease the number of computers needed. The more workstations based on one PC, the greater the savings.
Reducing UPS costs: With fewer computers, the need for UPS also decreases, saving money.
Saving electricity: Fewer computers mean less electricity use, providing long-term benefits.
Reducing heat: Using ASTER reduces heat, saving energy for cooling rooms.
Saving on software licenses: With fewer separate machines, fewer software licenses need buying.
Creating 2 workstations with ASTER on one PC:
To create two workstations, you need:
- One computer with enough performance.
- Extra monitors, keyboards, mice.
- Installing and setting up ASTER:
- Connect extra peripherals to one PC.
- Install ASTER and set it up so each monitor, keyboard, and mouse work as separate workstations.
- Set up PC resource sharing so each user can work independently.
Warning:
Before implementing ASTER, use the 2-week trial version to determine the best setup for the number of workstations on one PC and assess processor load with educational apps while multiple students work at the same time.
