Student Computer Recommendations 2011 - 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. These colleges and majors include:

The recommendations below are intended to provide a summary of things to consider when choosing a computer to bring to campus.

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

Have at least 2GB of RAM
Include a DVD/CD drive
Have Microsoft Office version 2010/2011 (RU Bookstore $12.99)
Have Windows 7 Home Premium or OSX 10.5 or greater (Windows 7 upgrade RU Bookstore $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 4GB 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 10.6
Have an Ethernet port and WiFi
Include a 3-4 year hardware warranty

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 and Apple models available from the Radford University Bookstore. These configurations were established with cost and support in mind. The RU Technology Assistance Center will coordinate hardware repairs for these systems and provide loaner computers during the warranty period for these machines. 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.