|
Minimum Configuration for Bagley College of Engineering Student Computers
2009-2010 Academic Year (Class of 2013)
These specifications are only for freshmen entering during the fall 2009 semester. Transfer students should follow the specifications in place at the time they were freshmen.
Minimum Hardware Specifications:
Platform: Laptop or Notebook. Tablet PCs are not required but are accepted. Students are cautioned that our main concern with Tablet PCs is their ruggedness. Students who choose a Tablet PC should take extra care in protecting them from damage while transporting to and from classes, labs, and study groups.
1.8 GHz or faster Dual Core processor or equivalent.
2 Gb RAM (2 Gb is the minimum required for Vista but we strongly encourage 3 to 4 Gb)
120 GB Hard drive
DVD-RW required
Video screen with minimum resolution of 1024x768
DirectX Compatible Video Card with 256 Mb RAM (512 Mb RAM encouraged for longer usability in graphics intensive fields)
IEEE 802.11g wireless capability
Ethernet (network) card
1 Gb minimum USB Flash Drive (thumb drive, memory stick, etc.) to allow easy transfer of files between computers.
Required Operating System:
Windows Vista Business or Vista Ultimate with Service Pack 1 (Vista Home is not acceptable). Do not purchase the 64-bit versions of Vista. This version has not been checked for compatibility with software used in the various disciplines and needed drivers for some equipment may not be available.
Required Software:
Microsoft Office 2007 Professional to include Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access and Outlook. Microsoft Works is NOT an acceptable substitute. Microsoft Office 2007 Professional is available to students through Mississippi State Bookstore at www.msstate.bncollege.com. There is no less expensive way of obtaining this software than through the bookstore.
Norton Antivirus is available to students free of charge on the university intranet once they arrive on campus and should be installed as soon as possible.
Recommended Optional Equipment:
Students are strongly encouraged to purchase an external, portable hard drive which can be used for computer back-ups and storage of large files. These are reasonably priced and available in various capacities. We cannot over-emphasize the importance of performing regular backups of important documents and keeping your backup in a separate location from your laptop. Should your laptop be lost or damaged, you will still have your important documents on your portable hard drive which could then be used on another computer until yours is replaced or repaired. Lost or damaged laptops are not acceptable excuses for missing assignments.
Use Of Macs:
Some of the software used in engineering is incompatible with the Apple Macintosh Operating System and Mac versions of the software are not available. Should a student choose to use a Mac they will need to ensure it has the appropriate microprocessor, will need to purchase the Windows Vista Business Operating System, and additional versions of any software they wish to operate in both Mac and Vista operating systems. Due to the additional costs involved, the lack of Mac support in the college, and the potential for software incompatibilities, we DO NOT recommend the use of Macs. Students who choose to purchase one should have no expectation of support and will assume full responsibility for ensuring they are compatible with Windows Vista counterparts. We are also unable to provide any recommendations on the purchase of Macs.
|
