AETC selects Sheppard for Windows 7 test bed Published Nov. 18, 2010 By Airman 1st Class Adawn Kelsey 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Work is underway by the 82nd Communications Squadron to install Window 7 on computers around Sheppard after Air Education and Training Command selected the base to be a test bed for the new operating system. The test period will help shape a timeline and provide information on office-specific program compatibility with Windows 7. Maj. Wade Dillard, 82nd CS commander, said there are about 210 computers that have been updated with the new program. "Some offices have already volunteered and taken the opportunity to test the new program during the test bed," Major Dillard said. "We are still welcoming offices on a volunteer basis." The major said the upgrades are relatively quick. "When a computer is upgraded, the information stored on the machine will be copied to a server, the machine is erased, Windows 7 is added and then the information is added back to the computer," Major Dillard said. He said Windows 7 provides more applications and should be compatible with most programs offices at Sheppard currently use. "Most programs used with Windows XP and Vista should be compatible with Windows 7, as well as functional items like plotters and printers," Major Dillard said. The difference in the programs will be most noticeable for users who are currently using Windows XP, the major noted. "Most of the users with the upgraded computers will not need training on the Windows 7 operating system, but if they have any questions or concerns, they can call the communications focal point for help," he said. The test bed is scheduled through the end of the year. To learn more about the differences between Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7, see the Microsoft Corporation website at: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-7/compare/versions.aspx.