Harris County - Institute of Forensic Sciences

System Support Services

The Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences System Support Services is one of the newest sections within the organization. Under the guidance of the Chief Medical Examiner, Dr. Luis A. Sanchez, the office has grown significantly and the demand for current computer technology and data management has resulted in a team of systems experts to deliver systems support services including networking functions. The System Support Services team also provides one-on-one technical assistance to HCIFS staff members. The support team evaluates and recommends the purchase of new computers, peripherals and networking equipment for all sections of the organization. The System Support Services team troubleshoots computing problems, assesses the cause of these problems, and solves them using the most effective means at hand while maintaining an efficient local area network.

Application support under the guidance of the HCIFS Systems Analyst is provided using unique software specifically designed to work in forensic laboratories. Each laboratory works closely with the Systems Analyst in an effort to accurately detail findings. This sector of the System Support Services team provides ad hoc programming functions in an effort to gather data.

Desktop
The maintenance and upkeep of all networked computers is the main domain of the Desktop Support Specialist. In conjunction with other team members, a coordinated effort is created to streamline all processes related with the purchase, installation, and maintenance of in-house equipment. The Desktop Support Specialist keeps track of new and evolving technology and how best to implement them within the HCIFS.

Technology Through the Ages

Advancement within the HCIFS has expanded and continues to grow with the onset of new methods of computerized communication and data management.

1984 – First local area network based around an IBM System 36.

1997 – Fifty-two desktop computers and 12 printers created the HCIFS's first wide area network with one server to store 30 gigabits of data.

2004 – The HCIFS network expanded to include 77 computers, 29 printers. The office acquired servers with over several terabytes of space for storage.

2006 – Networked devices consisted of over 200 computers, 40 printers and other forensic equipment.

2007 – The HCIFS is preparing to re-vamp its entire network backbone focusing on wired and wireless technology with faster and increased data storage.