Student Computer Recommendations 2012 - Division of Information Technology

Radford University recognizes technology is an essential part of every student's academic career.

Although Radford University does not have a formal computer requirement for all students, many students do choose to bring a laptop to campus. Be sure to review the complete listing of frequently asked questions about selecting a computer.

It should be noted, certain colleges and majors do have computer requirements or more detailed recommendations for their students. These requirements ensure that students have the specific software they need to successfully perform in their chosen program. Please check with your department advisor to see if your intended department has any specific computer recommendations.

If bringing a computer (Windows or Mac) you already own, at a minimum it should:

Have at least 2 GB of RAM
Include a DVD/CD drive
Have Windows 7 Home Premium or OS X 10.6 or greater (Windows 7 upgrade available at RU Bookstore for $12.99)
Have an Ethernet port and WiFi

If you're buying a new computer (Windows or Mac), we recommend that it:

Be a Laptop for mobility and ease of support
Have 4 GB RAM
Have an i5/i7 or equivalent CPU (i3 minimum)
Include a DVD+/- RW drive
Have a version of Microsoft Office 2010/2011 (Media available at RU Bookstore $12.99)
Have Windows 7 (Home Premium/Pro/Ultimate) or OSX 10.7
Have an Ethernet port and WiFi
Include a 3-4 year hardware warranty
NOTE: Many vendors are releasing new models in June of 2012 using the latest Intel Ivy Bridge processors.

Additional Recommendations

Purchase a 25 foot network cable for use in residence hall rooms
Use theft deterrence options like a security cable or Lo-Jack for laptops
Use a high capacity battery if available for portable devices (laptops, etc.)
Be prepared to protect data with an external hard drive or an online backup service
Consider the purchase of an accidental damage protection plan

Don't pay for Microsoft Office or Antivirus subscriptions because

Microsoft Office 2010 (Windows) /2011 (Mac) media is available at the Radford University Bookstore for $12.99.
Symantec Antivirus software is available to enrolled students as a free download.

For additional information please contact the Technology Assistance Center.

Purchasing a Laptop

If you decide to purchase a new laptop, you should consider the educationally priced Lenovo, Acer and Apple models available from the Radford University Bookstore operated by Follett. These configurations were established with cost and support in mind. The RU Technology Assistance Center will coordinate hardware repairs for the Lenovo and Apple systems purchased at the bookstore and provide loaner computers during the warranty period for these machines. We cannot provide additional hardware repairs or loaners for the Acer computers offered through the bookstore. Learn more about available models and pricing.

NOTE

While iPads, netbooks, eReaders and other similar devices are supported by the campus network, these devices may not meet all of your computing needs and are only recommended as a secondary device in addition to a desktop or laptop computer.

Purchasing a Laptop

NOTE

Related Links