Recommended Computer Configurations
Virtually any computer purchased new within the past year should prove adequate for accessing and using campus computing resources and for Internet access. Although neither the College nor Information Technology Services endorses or recommends any particular brand or type of computer, the following recommendations are offered for guidance.
Windows computers should be Pentium IV or better running at a minimum of 1 Ghz and with at least 512 mb of RAM. Windows XP Home and WINDOWS MEDIA CENTER are not recommended due to the nature of our business class network involving domains. To upgrade Windows XP Home you may purchase an upgrade, Microsoft Windows XP Professional, at The Store for under $15.00 dollars. THERE IS NO EASY UPGRADE FROM WINDOWS MEDIA CENTER TO XP PROFESSIONAL. Computers running Linux, Mac OS, or other operating systems will receive limited support.
While Macintosh computers can connect to the campus network and access the Internet, email, and campus servers, as well as use productivity software packages, some applications used in the curriculum and served across the network are entirely Windows based. Thus users of Macintosh computers will need to use the computer labs to access these programs.
To connect any computer to the campus network requires an Ethernet card. Information Technology Services recommends having the Ethernet card installed and tested when you purchase your computer. For existing computers, Ethernet cards are available in The Store on campus or from a variety of electronics and computer stores. Information Technology Services Help Desk staff will provide assistance in configuring your Ethernet card. Wireless network access is available in the Learning Resource Center, Asher Science Center, and The Grille.
In most situations laptop computers are recommended over desktop computers with mobility being the obvious advantage. If purchasing a new laptop it is strongly recommended that the purchaser consider accidental damage protection to cover damages not covered under standard manufacturing warranties. When ordering either a laptop or a desktop, the general rule for hardware configuration priorities are the amount of RAM (512 Mb-1024 Mb), CD-RW or DVD±/R±RW/CD-R/RW optical drives for copying large amounts of data, processor speed and type, and finally hard drive capacity. Usually 40Gb to 80Gb is adequate.
If you have any questions or desire further information on bringing a computer to campus for use in your room, please phone or email Carl Mahan at 502-863-7006.