New Computer
Minimum recommendations for a new computer
NOTE: The computer recommendations and specifications on this and other pages were developed by NC State's Office of Information Technology for Fall 2009 and will be updated in Spring 2010. Be sure to check with your college or department for their specific computer recommendations as they may vary.
If you are buying a new computer to bring to campus, we recommend that it meet or exceed these specifications. The greater the capability (processor speed, RAM, disk capacity) and expandability you purchase now, the more likely your computer will be able to meet your future needs.
2009 Minimum Recommendations for a New Computer
| Component | New PC Desktop |
New PC Laptop |
New Macintosh Desktop |
New Macintosh Laptop |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU | Intel Core 2 Duo or AMD X2 Dual Core | Intel Core 2 Duo or AMD X2 Dual Core |
Intel Core 2 Duo |
Intel Core 2 Duo |
|
System RAM |
2 GB | 2 GB | 1 GB | 1 GB |
|
Optical Drive |
DVD±RW |
DVD±RW | DVD±RW | Combo Drive DVD/CD-RW |
|
Hard Drive |
250 GB, SATA | 160 GB | 250 GB | 160 GB |
|
Monitor |
19" LCD | 14" | 20" LCD | 13" |
| Operating System | Vista Business | Vista Business | OS X 10.5 | OS X 10.5 |
| Ethernet Adapter | Built in | Built in | Built in | Built in or USB Ethernet |
|
Firewire / |
Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional |
| USB | Built in | Built in | Built in | Built in |
|
Wireless |
Optional |
Built in |
Built in | Built in |
| Warranty Service | 3-year on-site parts and labor | 3-year on-site parts and labor | 3-year AppleCare Protection Plan | 3-year AppleCare Protection Plan |
Orig. Posted: Tue, 03/10/2009 - 09:44 — dlschmid.ncsu.edu Last Modified: Wed, 09/02/2009 - 08:09