Operating Systems Remember the minimum computer hardware probably will not provide the best experience. The faster and larger capacity the computer, the less waiting between page views, and the opening and switching between programs will also enhance your experience. Netscape Communicator 7 Additionally, students intending to take or faculty intending to teach an online only classes should invest in a broadband internet connection such as DSL or Cable Modem. As with hardware, the faster the connection, the less waiting between views. Do not use Earthlink Accelerator. The following software is required: Any of the following software may be needed: COMPUTER BUYING GUIDE What type of computer should I use for taking an online class at Darton? We recommend a laptop for two reasons: What should I consider when purchasing a computer? We always tell parents to keep the would-be, hand-me-down computer at home. Too many times a family decides to buy a computer because their son or daughter is going off to college. However, they send the computer that's reached the end of its life off to school with the new college student. The new computer stays at home where it's mostly used for e-mail and solitaire. To save you a lot of headaches and long distance phone calls for over-the-phone technical service that turn into emergency road trips for repair, send the new computer to college. Also, when it comes to purchasing a new computer we strongly suggest investing enough money to make the computer last the entire college experience. By this I mean spending a few more dollars now to save you from having to buy a completely new system in just two years - which will happen if you buy a bottom of the line. When it comes to electronics you get what you pay for. If you are not completely computer savvy, you can't go wrong with a major "brand name" (Gateway, Dell, etc.). Remember, with these you are really paying for reliable customer service. A great option with most new laptops is the "built-in" or "integrated" wireless card/device. When you choose to add this option to your laptop you will not need to buy another piece of equipment to access a wireless network (including ours). Make sure that the built-in device is 802.11b or g "Wi-Fi" capable. Will a Mac work for Darton online classes? Why certainly! Macs have come a long way in the past few years. Apple has always done a great job with the design aspects of Macs, and finally got them financially comparable, and in some cases cheaper than PC's. Mac OS X was designed for high security, so it isn’t plagued by constant attacks from viruses and malware like PCs. Almost all Mac models today come with integrated 802.11b/g wifi adapters, as well as an integrated webcam, microphone, speakers, and bluetooth wireless technology. These features and the included software make a Mac a smart choice for an all around great machine right out of the box. With today's advancements it's even possible to simultaneously run Windows and Mac OSX on any Intel based Mac. Now all the old software compatibility issues are resolved. Students can also receive an educational discount on purchases from the Apple Online Store (including computers and software). What should the minimum specifications be on the computer I bring to college? (These are recommended minimums) What specifications are considered acceptable for a machine to last at least 3 years? We don't have a magic ball to look into, but if technology progresses as it has; What software programs are compatible with what's being used for Darton online classes? You can't go wrong with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.). Darton is currently upgrading computers in the Library, Labs, and Classrooms to Office 2007. We will begin selling Office 2007 mid-summer when Information Technology has finished updating all campus computers. A word of caution. Many new computers are sold with MS Works -- you CANNOT open a Word document with Works and retain the original formatting. Need more help with distance learning? |
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