School of Business Technology Recommendation for …



EKU School of Business - Recommended Computer Specifications395859034988500We strongly suggest if a new computer purchase is being considered, that it be a Windows-based computer as the Business sector is predominantly oriented around the Windows platform. All of your Business classes will be using Windows-based computers.While a desktop can be used, we strongly recommend a laptop for school use. The flexibility of being able to take your school computer to class, to the library, or to a team meeting will be very useful.We suggest not purchasing a printer. When printing is required, there are numerous laser printers available both in the Business & Technology Center (BTC) as well as across campus. (All students receive a $25 printing credit per semester for use with those printers.)Below are the specifications that we recommend for student systems:FeatureMinimum RecommendationsPreferred (if applicable)Rationale for RecommendationsProcessorIntel i5 Intel i7?The Windows 7, 8 and 10 operating system and applications written for it will require advanced processors to be used effectively. (Avoid Intel i3 processor family if at all possible.) AMD also manufactures a number of compatible processors that can be roughly equivalent.Memory6 GB8 GB (or more)Memory demands for Windows 7/8/10 will require at least 2 GB of memoryHard disk500 GB (traditional HDD)256 GB (or greater) SSDor1000 GB (1 TB or greater HDD)Increased use of cloud storage allows for less storage in the local PC. This fact opens up options for smaller capacity, but much faster Solid State Drives (SSD’s). ?Choosing a solid state drive has shown increased performance, but while you improve performance, you might pay slightly more and have less storage workingBuilt in LAN 10/100 (Ethernet) for all systems; wireless 802.11b/g/nBuilt-in LAN Gigabit (Ethernet) for all systems; wireless 802.11nWireless (802.11n) is available?in all residence halls and throughout the Business & Technology Center, but wired connections are always preferred for improved speed and reliability. ?Note – your laptop may require a special dongle to be able to connect a network cable. Please do not bring any personal routers to campus as this will interfere with available wireless. ?Operating system Windows 10 64-bitWindows 10 64-bitEKU School of Business has standardized on Windows 10 64-bit effective Fall 2016.We recommend avoiding Windows 8 and 8.1. Support & ProtectionStandard warrantyExtended warranty plan, including accidental damage coverage, for expected life of machine and a laptop bag to protect your computer.?As in most purchases, you get what you pay for. Most mid- to high-end laptops can be expected to last5 or more years depending on how they are treated/cared for.Software(FREE to EKU Students!)Microsoft Office 365 & Symantec Endpoint ProtectionYour Office 365 will allow you to install Office 2016 Pro Plus onto your computer’s hard drive.You will need Microsoft Office for your courses at EKU and Symantec Endpoint Protection is our free antivirus. Antivirus software is required to access wireless Internet services. Get both of these at no charge for EKU students.As a Business student, you’ll also have access to a library of additional Microsoft software, such as Visio, Visual Studio, Project, and more. (You can also get a license for Windows if needed – for running virtual machines, for example.)Other considerations Camera, Microphone – if not already built-in.Get a $20 multi-outlet surge protector with lots of plug-insExternal USB Optical drive-R, RW (if not built-in) External hard drive for backupsCamera and mic will allow Skyping with the family as well as communicating with faculty and classmates. (Your laptop may already have a suitable camera and microphone built-in.)The optical drive will allow the laptop to burn discs to submit class projects. It will also allow the users to play DVD movies (usually not Blu-ray though! Check to see if the drive is a Blu-ray drive.)(Between Netflix, Hulu, VuDu and Amazon Prime, do people still watch movies on disc?)Besides backups, the external hard drive can also be a great addition if a lower capacity SSD was selected as the laptop’s primary storage option.Personal PreferenceA full-size cordless mouseAn extra full-size keyboardExternal monitorLaptop touchpads are great, but some people find increased productivity using a separate mouse.Likewise, a full-size keyboard will help, especially when typing papers.Optional, but nice to have a larger monitor and to be able to use as dual monitors along with the laptop display.Convenience FactorA second power adapterThe second power adapter will live in the laptop carry case while the primary stays permanently in the room. Less moving of the primary adapter will increase it life and reliability. Having a secondary will ensure you always for needed power when traveling. (It will also act as a backup in case the primary fails.)We are very excited about your choice to come to EKU and we look forward to seeing you in the Fall!Have a safe summer,The School of Business Faculty and Staff ................
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