If you decide to purchase a computer, we suggest that you follow the standard UNC Charlotte Student Computing recommendations for hardware and software. |
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Windows Vista at UNC Charlotte
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Windows Vista Recommendation
Fall 2009
Windows XP SP3 is the supported Windows operating system within the University computer labs. However, Windows Vista has been tested and has been found to be compatible with the University’s core applications with one exception. The SAS statistical package is not compatible with Windows Vista Home Edition. Students who are using Windows Vista Home Edition that need access to SAS are welcome to use the Student Computing labs.
The Student Computing Help Center will provide assistance with Windows Vista-related issues on a best-efforts basis. For any issues with discipline-specific applications and Windows Vista, please check with your college or department. |
UNC Charlotte Dell & Apple Stores
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Windows Computers
Click Here for Dell Computer Student Purchases. |
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Macintosh Computers
Click Here for Apple Computer Student Purchases.
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Buying Guide
Most students are not required to own a computer at UNC Charlotte. Some colleges may strongly recommend computer ownership; others will recommend that you use their lab computers.
The following colleges have specific requirements or expectations:
- College of Arts & Architecture
Students are required to purchase a laptop.
- College of Engineering
Freshman students in the College of Engineering are required to have a computer for personal use. Existing College of Engineering students and transfer students are encouraged to own a computer.
Check the college recommendations for your college to determine what’s best for you.
If you plan to purchase a computer, UNC Charlotte has partnered with Dell and Apple to offer discounted pricing. These computers are configured to last through a 4-year stay at the University, to provide maximum performance and to take advantage of technologies like wireless computing.
Dell computers are also priced to include a 4-year warranty service and are tagged with a toll-free service number and special coding that lets the service representative know you are part of UNC Charlotte's purchase program. You are in no way obligated to purchase a computer through these programs.
Discounted software from Adobe and Microsoft is also available through the UNC Charlotte bookstore. Check the Technology tab on the UNC Charlotte bookstore website for more information on student discounts.
Windows Vista Users: Please see our recommendation on using Windows Vista at UNC Charlotte.
Suggested Hardware
If you plan to purchase a new computer, the optimum configuration below is sufficiently robust to handle the current operating systems and application software and will meet University computing requirements during the next four years. If you’re using an existing computer to access online University applications, it should meet or exceed the minimum configuration for adequate performance.
Wireless computing users should check the wireless setup information for hardware requirements for your laptop.
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CPU |
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2.0GHz dual core + higher |
RAM |
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2 GB |
Hard Drive |
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80 GB |
OS |
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Windows XP SP3
Windows Vista Business
or Ultimate Edition |
Ethernet Adapter |
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10/100/1000 Base T |
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CPU |
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2.4 GHz + higher |
RAM |
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2 GB |
Hard Drive |
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200 GB + higher |
OS |
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MacOS X |
Ethernet Adapter |
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10/100 Base T |
Laptops vs Desktops
Most UNC Charlotte students are not required to own a computer, however, many students find it helpful and convenient to do so. Whether it's best to own a laptop or a desktop depends mostly on personal preference.
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Mobility
Wireless Internet access |
Lower cost
More powerful
Easy to upgrade
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Higher cost
Not easily upgraded
Vulnerable to accident, loss, theft |
Not mobile
Cabled Internet connection |
Need to borrow a laptop for a few hours? Atkins Library
has laptops available for students to check-out while on campus. See the library's laptop circulation policy for more information.
Wireless computing on campus gives wireless laptop users access to the Internet and many web applications and resources delivered with a web browser. Get more information about configuring your laptop for wireless access and find the wireless access points.
Internet Access
Internet access is available in the Student Computing labs, via wireless access on campus and in all residential housing. Campus residences connect via cable modem using
Road Runner High Speed Online. Wireless Internet access is not available in residential housing.
Housing Technology Services (HTS) delivers technical services to students living in residential housing. Visit HTS for information and assistance with computing, phone and cable services.
Suggested Software
Some colleges at the University require or recommend discipline specific software for
your personal computer. Please check the college recommendations for more information.
Online training with SkillPort is also available to students for software products like Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite. Our online training offers 2,600 courses, simulations, express guides, test prep exams, mentoring, skill briefs and job aids.
Microsoft Office is the primary office
productivity software used at the University and can be found in most of the
departmental and all of the Student Computing labs. If you choose to
purchase a computer from
Dell or
Apple,
you can include Microsoft Office in the purchase price or check the UNC Charlotte bookstore for discounted prices on software from Microsoft and Adobe.
Additional Software for Students
Information & Technology Services makes some software available for students to install at no additional charge from the Student Computing secure download site.
SAS business analytics software can be checked-out from the Collections Desk on the 2nd floor of Atkins Library. Be sure to bring your student ID. You'll need to download a license file from the secure download site to complete the installation.
SAS is not compatible with Windows Vista Home Edition. Students who are using Windows Vista Home Edition that need access to SAS are welcome to use the Student Computing labs.
In addition, Microsoft Developer Network Academic Alliance (MSDNAA) permits the faculty and students in CCI, COE and COB BISOM to install operating systems, server and programming products for research purposes.
Products are downloaded from the UNC Charlotte MSDNAA website. Students registered with these colleges and departments receive a welcome email from Microsoft with a userid (e-mail address) and password,
which are required for access.
Assistive Technology
Student Computing works with the Office of Disability Services to provide assistive technology that can make technology more accessible for students. Equipment and software is available to assist students with vision or hearing impairments, motor or orthopedic impairments or learning disabilities. Contact the Office of Disability Services for more information.
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