TABLE OF CONTENTS

Why Chrome OS?

Berkeley Lab's IT User Support Department is continually striving to stretch dollars for science.

One way to achieve this objective is to offer Chrome OS devices to users who may not need standard Windows or Mac computers.

Chrome OS is a Google product that allows users to access GSuite and (increasingly) Google Android applications via low-cost, quick booting and long battery life computers. Chrome OS devices (Chrome-books, Chrome-boxes, and Chrome-sticks) cannot run Windows or Mac programs, but they can be a good alternative for those who heavily use Berkeley Lab's GSuite toolset, or other browser environment based tools (such as Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud Services or other Virtual Services), for their work tasks.

Other features of Chrome OS:

• Berkeley Lab Chrome OS devices provide protection against loss or theft of data, by permitting user and settings data on stolen, or lost, Chrome OS devices to be wiped remotely and the device completely disabled until recovered
• Chrome OS devices protect against loss or corruption of data by not storing documents and data on device hard drives
• Chrome OS devices are inexpensive ($400-$500 dollars generally) and require less maintenance than traditional computers

Operations Chrome OS Testing

Beginning in FY2017, the Operations Desktop Support (ODS) program is piloting a project to provide some Operations users (on a voluntary basis) ChromeOS devices for testing and evaluation. Operations users who would like to participate in the program are encouraged to request an assessment by submitting a ticket to [email protected]. The more participants the more dollars saved in Operations that can go towards science.

Digital Signage

Does your department or group need digital signage at an affordable price? Chrome OS could be that solution. IT User Support has has provided Lab groups with digital signage utilizing Chromebits and Chromeboxes. If you would like a demo or seek consultation submit a request to [email protected] and we will be glad to provide you with information and help.