Maintenance and Replacement Given the investment required to provide a significant number of computers for instructional purposes, it is unfortunate that their useful life is only three to five years. 11 Total-cost-of-ownership (TCO) represents all of the costs involved with installing, operating, and maintaining a widely dispersed network of computers over a period of time. Costs also arise in providing training and support to people who are not technologically savvy. TCO models for businesses are usually calculated on replacing computers on a three-year cycle, but schools may be able to stretch this to five years. Some schools may be expected to extend the life of computers beyond five years, but this may actually cost more money as older machines often require more maintenance and support. Inadequate long-range planning can seriously compromise future equipment use. While a purchasing and replacement cycle of five years is recommended, schools traditionally use one-year funding cycles, not long-range budgets. Because schools or districts may not be able to make long-term budget commitments, many experts recommend that schools purchase computers with the most memory and processing power they can afford. 12 Did You Know? The Institute for the Advancement of Emerging Technologies in Education at AEL launched an online Total Cost of Ownerhsip (TCO) calculator designed to help school leaders better understand the cost implications of technology systems. This free tool allows users to input parameters related to school demographics and projected technology purchases to cost out "what if" scenarios over a five-year time period. Summary reports are presented as tables, graphs, and downloadable spreadsheet files. Cost categories covered in the calculator include: Computers and peripherals Distance-learning equipment Telecommunications Training Repairs, supplies, and salaries Building modifications Furniture Electrical power Visit the K12 TCO Calculator at www.iaete.org/tco/