IT Services

Hardware Recommendations

The following information will help you select a computer that will most effectively use the Dorm network (DormNet). Systems that will not work are noted.

MS Windows Systems
Macintosh OS Systems
Suggestions for Buying a Computer
Other Ideas to Consider 

MS Windows Systems

• At least a Pentium III class processor.
• XP Professional operating system.
  (Ensure that you have installed the latest security patches.)
• 256 MB of RAM or more.
• VGA Monitor
• 10baseT Network card
• Anti-Virus Software - THIS IS COMPULSORY AND WILL BE REQUIRED BEFORE FULL NETWORK ACCESS IS PERMITTED. Also, ensure your software and virus definition files are current.

• G4 processor (other power PC processors will run as well)
• OS X (System 7.5.3 or better with Open Transport) will run on the network
• 256 MB of RAM
• 10baseT Network card or AAUI 10baseT transceiver (Apple Ethernet or Asante Ethernet products suggested.)
• Anti-Virus Software - THIS IS COMPULSORY AND WILL BE REQUIRED BEFORE FULL NETWORK ACCESS IS PERMITTED. Also, ensure your software and virus definition files are current.

Suggestions for Buying a Computer

Windows or Macintosh?
Both Windows and Macintosh computers will meet basic word processing, spreadsheet, e-mail, and Internet needs. Both platforms are supported on DormNet. We suggest you check with the Head of your Department to see if they recommend one platform over the other.

Desktop or Laptop?
Students should examine their computing habits to determine whether a laptop or a desktop computer would best suit their needs.

• Desktop computers tend to be easier to use because they are not as compact as a laptop and thus can be configured in a more ergonomically correct manner. For a given level of performance, a desktop computer is generally cheaper than a laptop computer. Desktop computers also offer better expandability and can often be upgraded in performance.
• Laptop or notebook computers offer students better mobility and ease of setup. Typically they have wireless cards and hence can be used in many locations on campus.  As they tend to be more fragile, an extended maintenance policy is suggested.  Since laptops are more easily stolen or damaged due to their portability, insuring them is a good idea.

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• USB Flash Drive: You should purchase a USB Flash Drive. The computer labs on campus do not have floppy drives, but will support USB Flash Drives. These are available in the University bookstore and other places such as Wal-Mart, Staples, Best Buy, or Circuit City.
• Network Card: When choosing a computer, make sure that it includes or is able to accept a 10Base-T network card.
• Random Access Memory (RAM): Memory affects the performance of the computer and the amount of applications that can be running at the same time. It is best to configure a system with as much memory as you can afford (at least 256 MB). Purchase a system that will allow for future upgrades in RAM if needed.
• Wireless Card:  There is wireless access in most of the public buildings on campus.  You will need a wireless card in your laptop if you use these services.

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