Beginners How-To use Debian as a LAN

[Brian Burnes <sets@mindspring.com>]

Hello:

I am a microbiology laboratory manager with limited computer literacy, but
I am interested in the capabilities of Debian.  I need to create a
laboratory computer system that is multiuser (with terminals?) and
multitasking capable (sounds like Linux) with a GUI (for computerphobes)
and word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications which can read
MS files.  My existing hardware consists of PCs with Pentiums running MS
Office.  From a little research I have done, I think Linux can do the job.
I have read the info, comparison, and install pages, but I am just not
sure.  I also don't have the time or expertise to fix a confused computer
if I botch the job.  

Is it possible to use an existing Pentium PC, install Debian, find
MS-Office-like applications, and run terminals to the central PC so that
users in separate labs can access one central file set?

I appreciate any suggests or comments.  Thanks

Brian S. Burnes
Existing hardware (PCs with PentiumII, older 386s)
Existing software (MS Windows, Xenix)


Brian S. Burnes, Phd.
Soil and Environmental Testing Services, Inc., 
3300 Marjan Drive, Atlanta, GA 30340
tel: (770) 986-0977  
fax: (770) 936-0247  
web: www.setsinternational.com
e-mail: burnes@setsinternational.com