COMPUTER RECOMMENDATION

Recommended Computer Specifications

Operating System

(Minimum) Windows XP
(Recommended) Windows 7 (Professional, Ultimate or Home Premium) or newer; or Mac OS X 10.6 or newer

Processor (CPU)

Dual-core processor or better

Monitor and Video Card

Monitor - LCD 1024x768 resolution or higher
Video Card - 256 MB video Ram or better

Hard Drive

(Minimum) 160 gigabytes
(Recommended) 500 gigabytes or larger

Memory (RAM)

(Minimum) 2 gigabyte
(Recommended) 4 gigabytes or more

Software

Required: Antivirus software with a subscription that keeps your computer up-to-date. Computer security risks and threats continue to rise. A vulnerable machine can be attacked and infected in a few seconds. It is your responsibility to protect your computer and your data. This helps protect the HCC's network and resources, and other Blue Dragons. Recommended: HCC has standardized on Microsoft Office 2010 for productivity software. Student versions of the software can be found online at educational rates. A link is also provided in the DragonZone student portal.

Networking

At least one of the following is required - check with where you are going to live to see what type of connection is available:

• Ethernet card: for residence hall, and broadband access
• Wireless card: 802.11a/g/n recommended for wireless access on campus

Multimedia

Media capable (sound, mic, webcam).

Misc.

Removable storage, DVD recordable drive, USB flash drive (requires USB port), External Hard drive which meets or exceeds your hard drive capacity (for backups)

Other recommendations

• Netbooks and tablet computing devices do not have the computing power of a normal laptop or desktop computer, for this reason they are not recommended for use as a primary computer at HCC.
• USB ports and audio jacks on the front of a computer are highly preferred for easy access.
• Use a backup program like Windows Backup or Mac OS Time Machine with an external hard drive to ensure file recovery in the event of a system malfunction.
• Purchase a surge protector or uninterruptible power supply.
• Add an extended warranty to cover the length of your academic use of the computer. Check with your homeowners or renters insurance to see if your computer is covered for damages or theft while used on campus, and get additional coverage if needed.
• Consider purchasing a security cable for your laptop or desktop computer.
• Bring copies of your operating system, office suite, and other software application installation media (including product keys) in case a reformat or reinstall becomes necessary.

Estimated Price Range: $700 - $1500

* Before any purchase, check the college/department requirements for your field of study. Macs are recommended for Art and Journalism majors.