:: Technology Guide

Recommended Wireless Laptop
Computer System Requirements 2005-2006

If you are purchasing a new computer we recommend purchasing a Dell Wireless Latitude Laptop.  We have an on-line purchasing arrangement with Dell. Below are the specifications that we suggest for new laptop computers.  To purchase direct from Dell Click the Dell icon on the right

Processor speed (CPU)
  ♦ Laptop 1.6 GHz Pentium M processor

Memory (RAM)
  ♦ 512 megabytes or better

Removable storage
  ♦ 256 MB 2.0 USB Jump Drive
This is a portable USB storage device, allowing quick and easy transferring of data from personal computer to other computers.

Sound System
  ♦ Internal speakers

Printer
  ♦ College provided printers are quotated, and many students prefer the convenience of personal printer.  Click here for more information on the College Print Quota Policy

Software
Click here for a description of each program listed below

No need to purchase these software programs,
They are available to students at no additional cost

  ♦ Microsoft Office Suite Word, Excel, Access, FrontPage,
     PowerPoint, Publisher
       (disk available for check out from the Library or installed by Information
      Technology Staff)
  ♦ GroupWise or GroupWise WebAccess available on-line
  ♦ Symantec AntiVirus Corporate Edition available on-line
  ♦ Novell available on-line
  ♦ Spybot Search & Destroy Anti-Spyware program available free on-line
♦ Lavasoft Ad-Aware SE program available free on-line

Minimum System Requirements:
If you already have a PC or are purchasing an older model computer, you need to be sure your computer meets these Minimum System Requirements:

1.4 GHz Processor or Higher
256+ Mb RAM
10 Gigabyte Hard Drive 
Installed 10/100 Ethernet Card
Ethernet Cable (RJ45)
Windows XP with Service Pack 2 (SP2)
Must be a genuine version of Windows.  

*Wireless Connections

We recommend a 802.11b wireless network card for campus use.  Students will still need a wired connection (ethernet card and cable) in order to connect to the network from student rooms. 

Wireless Access Points
Wireless access points are permitted but wireless routers are not.  Please see www.albion.edu/resnet/Routers.asp for additional information
 

Important: You should have your Windows XP Operating System disk(s) with you to aid in troubleshooting and to resolve computer problems. Some manufacturers include a copy of your system disks on your hard drive. Check your documentation or contact the manufacturer.