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Computer Specifications

Updated 3-18-08

Gellersen Center has an 802.11b/802.11g wireless network. For this reason, many students will find it convenient to bring a laptop computer with an appropriate wireless network card installed. If you have questions or concerns please call Jon Sanders, our Director of Engineering Information Systems, at 219 464-5122.

2008 Recommended Computer Specifications

There are two sets of computer specifications. The first set is for those students wishing to purchase a new computer. The second set is for those students who already have a computer they wish to bring from home. Either a laptop or desktop computer is acceptable, but a laptop will provide the added benefit of being able to be taken to class. Please note that these are minimum specifications.

New Computer Specifications

Operating System--Windows Vista Business or Ultimate, or XP Professional. Windows XP and Vista Home is not designed to work entirely satisfactorily on our network and does not meet the minimum specifications, although some students have had success with them.

Processor-- All AMD and Intel processors currently available in stores are acceptable.

Memory--1GB or more.

Hard Drive--160GB. Larger recommended if it fits your budget.

Monitor--17 or 19 inch LCD.

Video Card--128MB minimum.  256MB if it fits your budget,

Sound Card--A sound card and speakers are recommended.

DVD+/-RW--Recommended. 

Network Card--A 10/100 Base-T network card is required to connect your computer to the campus network. An 802.11b or 802.11g wireless network card should also be included in a laptop. (If you bring a laptop you should have both wired and wireless networking.)

Software--An office productivity suite such as Microsoft Office Professional is recommended. This can be purchased from your computer vendor or at the campus bookstore, usually for less than $200.

Computer From Home Specifications

Please note that the closer your computer is to the minimum specifications below, the sooner it will need to be replaced. Computers meeting these specs are not likely to run all software over the next four years.

Operating System--Windows 2000 Professional, Windows XP Professional, or Windows Vista Business or Ultimate.

Processor--Pentium IV type processor at 2.0 GHz or faster.

Memory--512MB

Hard Drive--60GB.

Monitor--Any monitor that works with your system.

Video Card--16MB.

Sound Card--A sound card and speakers are recommended.

CDROM--Necessary for loading files.

Network Card--Same as for a new computer.

Software--Same as for a new computer.