Florida State University

Minimum Computer Requirements for Incoming Students

The Student Computer Initiative (SCI)

The SCI requires all students to own a computer that meets the minimum standards set by the University. These requirements are in place to ensure compatibility with the FSU network and computer related coursework.

PLEASE NOTE: While every effort will be made to support students with non-SCI systems, we cannot guarantee that those systems will attach seamlessly to the campus environment. Hardware support and maintenance for non-SCI computers is the responsibility of the owner.

If you are uncertain that your current computer meets these requirements, or have any further questions or problems,Contact:

Florida State University Technology Services Help Desk
http://otc.fsu.edu
http://helpdesk.fsu.edu
help@otc.fsu.edu
(850) 644-HELP (4357)

or

FSU Computer Store
(850) 644-7344

Introduction

The following are PC/MAC recommendations from the Office of User Services for all students.

The recommendation is based upon the analysis of the average use of computers by students and does not take into account specialized equipment or software that may be required by a student’s academic program. Students are advised to check with the individual programs for any additional computer requirements.

The minimum recommendations outlined in this document will meet the requirements for an SCI system as required by the University and should meet the minimum requirements of most departments and colleges.

Overall Recommendation

Although there are various computer labs positioned throughout the university, students will find it very convenient to have their own personal computer. Computers have become an integral part of our education system, so much so that a course in computer literacy is now required from most institutions. At a minimum, students will routinely be required to write various types of papers and presentations, search the internet for information, correspond through email, obtain assignments and homework from course web pages, and run applications required by their specific curriculum.

Should I buy a new computer?

If you have a computer that was purchased new within the last two years it should be more than sufficient to meet your needs. Even high-end computers purchased 3-4 years ago should still be suitable. If you need to purchase a new computer, we would recommend that you try to buy the most capable system you can afford. Systems with more memory, disk space, and processor speed tend to remain viable for a longer period of time. The typical useful life span of a computer is 3-4 years.

Should I buy a printer?

Students can print using the University Computer Labs at the cost of 5 cents per page. This is reasonable for occasional use, but probably not cost effective for most of your printing needs. Most desktop black/white printers are relatively inexpensive and would probably be a good investment.

Why a digital flat-screen monitor for desktops?

Most new computers come with flat-screen monitors. They take up less space, use less electricity, generate less heat, and are not that much more expensive than older CRT monitors.

Internet Connection

• Public Internet Access:
  • Wireless
    • The FSUWIN (Florida State University Wireless Integrated Network) is available in many classrooms, conference rooms, auditoriums, and other public areas. Wireless capable laptops and other personal devices may access the FSUWIN.
    • For more information: FSUWIN Wireless Network
    • Residence Halls that have wireless connection: Salley, DeGraff, and Wildwood.
  • Computer Labs
    • FSU offers 3 main computer labs. Each lab is equipped with a wide variety of software and is available to students, faculty, and staff.
    • For more information: Computer Labs
      
      
• Residential Internet Access:
  • Residence Halls
    • Every room is equipped with an Ethernet connection for each resident. This provides a high-speed, continuous Internet connection.
    • All routers and server are not allowed in residence halls.
    • For more information: Residence Halls (ResNet)
  • Off-Campus Access
    • Most apartment complexes offer high speed connections. If necessary, you may subscribe to a high-speed internet service, such as DSL or cable, or a dial-up service.
  • For more information: Off Campus

Laptop versus Desktop

There are specific advantages and disadvantages to both laptop and desktop computers. This section will briefly address these differences and leave the selection up to the individual:

• Laptop
• Advantages:   Laptops are portable systems that allow student to carry their own personal computer throughout campus. There are numerous campus “hot spots” where anyone with a wireless connection (wireless internet card) and a valid FSUID can connect to the campus network. Laptops also take up less space which is very important if you are residing in one of the Universities resident halls where space is limited. The convenience and portability of the systems are the primary advantages.

• Disadvantages:   Higher cost and some hardware limitations are the major disadvantages. Price $700 - $3,000 (Source: Consumer Reports)
  
  
• Desktop
• Advantages:   A similar Desktop both in speed and storage capacity may be less expensive than a comparable laptop. Parts are less expensive and more readily available. If needed, peripherals (such as additional CD/DVD or hard drives) can be added to the machine easily. Normally you only need a 10/100 MB Ethernet card to access the internet. They are less likely to be stolen. Cost and flexibility are the major advantages. Price $300 - $3,000 (Source: Consumer Reports)

• Disadvantages:   Desktops are not portable and they take up considerable more room than a laptop, even with a thin flat-screen monitor.  

Software

This office recommends at a minimum a word processing package, a presentation package similar to MS PowerPoint, Adobe Acrobat Reader to read PDF files, a web browser, and anti-virus/spam software with a subscription for routine updates.

Microsoft Vista Operating System
The FSU Network is currently being tested and updated for Vista compatibility. At this time, the University has not officially switched to Vista and compatibility with the FSU network is not 100% guaranteed.

Thus, technical support may be limited. As such, many users may choose to lean toward the seamless, proven compatibility with the FSU network, and staying with Windows XP.
However, those who enjoy the latest technology and feel comfortable with trouble-shooting potentially unforeseen problems may desire upgrading to Vista.

For more information:  http://us.fsu.edu/vista_recommendation.html

Listed below is the specification for the minimum computer system requirement. To assist you with your research in selecting a specific computer, refer to the wide variety of computer hardware reviews published in magazines such as PC Magazine, Windows Magazine, Byte, and others. Also, refer to WWW sources such as ZDnet or Cnet for the most current hardware reviews and buying tips