Residential Computing

Hardware Guidelines

Whether you bring your current computer or buy a new one, be sure to check and see if it meets ResComp's recommended minimum specifications:

Recommended Minimum Specifications

Wired Networking Hardware

In order to connect to the network, your computer will need a network card, also called a Network Interface Card (NIC), an Ethernet card, or an Ethernet adapter. Almost all new computers that you can buy today come with an Ethernet adapter built in. If you need to install an Ethernet card or adapter and you are having trouble connecting, a Residential Computing Consultant can help you when you arrive on campus.

Ethernet Cables: To connect your computer to our network, you will need to buy a Category 5, RJ-45 Ethernet Cable. We recommend you buy a cable at least 25 feet long, so that you can place your computer anywhere in your room and still be able to reach the network jack.

What Else Should I Bring?

In addition to your computer, here are some related items we recommend bringing with you to campus:

• 25 ft. Ethernet Cable
• Laptop Lock
• Operating System Installation/Repair Discs
• Computer Warranty Information
• 6 ft. power strip or surge protector

You might also consider bringing the following (but note that printing is available in the Academic Services Centers):

• External Hard Disk Drive
• Productivity Suite Discs (Microsoft Office, Apple iWork, etc.)
• Wireless Router
• Television (also bring 25 ft. Coaxial Cable)
• Desktop Audio Speakers
• Headphones
• Printer & Printer cables
• Printer Driver installation disks

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Should I get a desktop or a laptop?

   Desktop and laptop computers both have advantages and disadvantages. More and more students are opting for the mobility of laptops, and with the availability of network access on campus, you can take your work anywhere and take notes in class, while with a desktop you are bound to your room or apartment. However, laptops and upgrades for laptops are typically somewhat more expensive than similarly configured desktop computers. Because of their portability, laptops are also more likely than desktops to be stolen or lost, so be sure to take the necessary precautions with your laptop.

   In recent years, computer manufacturers have begun offering significantly smaller, low-cost laptops commonly known as "netbooks," as well as the increasingly popular iPad and other tablet devices. These range in price from $100 to $600, and feature a small display (5 to 13 inches), light-weight design (2 to 3 pounds), and a long battery life. Due to their smaller size, netbooks and tablets have limited hard drive space and processing power as compared to full-featured laptops and desktops. They are most suitable for residents who already own a desktop or standard laptop and are looking for something both cost-effective and highly portable to supplement their computing needs.

2. Should I get a Mac or Windows-based PC?

   Residential Computing does not recommend one operating system over another, but we can offer some general tips that may help you make a decision.

   Many people prefer to use Windows because of its popularity, familiarity, and compatibility with commonly used software such as Microsoft Office. Windows PCs are available at a somewhat lower cost than Macs, and some specialized software packages are only available for Windows systems. For more information about Windows, visit the Microsoft website.

   Apple's operating system, Mac OS X, is considered by some to be easier to learn and use than Windows, and is generally believed to be more secure against online threats such as viruses. Macs do run Microsoft Office applications, but certain academic software is only compatible with Windows. However, much of this software is available on computers in the Academic Services Centers in the residence halls. Currently, Macs do not offer as much extensive support for gaming. For more information about Mac systems, visit www.apple.com.

   The decision about what operating system to use ultimately depends on the preferences and needs of the user. Both the Mac and Windows platform are well-suited for basic functions such as writing papers, web browsing, online research, and storing/playing music and media. For those who want access to both operating systems, Intel-based Apple computers can also run Windows through programs like Boot Camp or Parallels.

3. Should I bring a printer?

   Many students choose to bring a printer with them to campus, although there are printing resources available on campus. A popular option is an all-in-one device, which prints, scans, and copies documents and photos. If you do choose to bring a printer, be sure to also bring the printer's installation discs, as well as any cables or additional software it requires.

   There are many places on or near campus that provide printing services for those students without a printer. You can visit the Academic Services Center at your residence hall, an on-campus computing lab, or a nearby copy and printing services store such as Copy Central.

   While printing is available in the Academic Services Center, the Center is not open 24 hours. However, as of Fall 2012, we will be offering remote printing to printers located in the ASC.