what type of computer do i need on campus?

are there any restrictions

New Computers

Any business class PC or Mac works well on the campus network. You may want to purchase a computer that meets or exceeds the minimum recommendations listed below. Also, you’ll need some type of work processor such as MS Word or Open Office. The Windows XP SP3 or higher or Mac OS X operating systems are supported. A network port is usually a built in feature in a new computer.

Used Computers

The following are minimum recommendations if you plan to bring a used computer.

1.2 GHz Pentium 4 class or higher Processor (AMD or Intel)
1GB RAM
80 GB Hard Disk, or higher
MS Word 2003 or higher or Open Office 3 or higher
DVD ROM Drive
Windows XP SP3 or higher
100 Mbps network card
Wireless network card for laptops.

Students have a direct Internet and network connectivity from their dormitory rooms as well as wireless access in selected areas. A network (patch) cable is required to connect the network port of the computer to the wall outlet. You may purchase a patch cable from the campus bookstore.

You will be assigned a network account and an e-mail account. You are expected to be familiar with the Acceptable Use Agreement and the E-mail Policy that are available online as well as in the Student Handbook. You are responsible for any activity associated with your accounts. Penalties will be imposed for any misuses of your network accounts. The basic instructions on how to use the network and your account information will be given to you during the Jump Start. Make sure you save these instructions. If you need any assistance later, please contact the Help Desk at 3137-MYECIT - email. For network login questions only, you may contact Jim Perry at 6390.

Note

Some students have experienced difficulties allocating resources for a network card on some tightly integrated proprietary computers. We may not be able to resolve these issues or any other hardware issues associated with your own computer.

If you have any questions, you may contact the Information Technology Department by phone (3137-MYECIT) or by email.

Desktop or Laptop

what should I bring to

campus?

What type of computer you purchase and bring to Eureka College is a very personal decision. There are, however several questions that you need to ask yourself to help you to make this important decision:

Does my academic major lend itself to desktop over a laptop? Or vice versa?

Do I need to consider large memory reserves favoring one choice over the other? (i.e. large papers, projects, etc.)

Do I feel comfortable transporting a computer? Do I have a tendancy to leave things behind or misplace items?

Do I prefer for most of my computer time to be spent in my room, in a computer lab, or in various locations around Eureka?