Each year, Information and Educational Technology works with other parts of campus to develop a list of recommended Microsoft, Apple, laptop and desktop configurations that work best in UC Davis’ computing environment for students. Students should use these recommendations to guide the purchase of new computers for the 2011-2012 school year. A system that meets or exceeds these recommendations should have a lifespan of two to four years.

To help students accomplish a broad range of educational activities, and benefit from in- and out-of-class opportunities to the fullest possible extent, UC Davis expects students to have their own computers. Specifically, UC Davis recommends:

• Using a laptop rather than a desktop computer. The spread of wireless access, and the increasing use of computers for individual and group work at various locations, create many advantages to owning a laptop.
• If buying a PC, select a system with the Windows 7 Home Premium edition or better. Please check with your school or college to find out if it has specific recommendations.

These computer systems might not be able to run current software needed for daily computing, or access specific files required for classes. Also, vendors usually do not support them.

The UC Davis Bookstore offers several laptop and desktop computer systems designed to meet or exceed the minimum campus performance standards. Read more at its UC Davis Bookstore TechHUB Web site.

The IT Express Computing Services Help Desk provides assistance with many topics, including software, campus Internet access, and activating and accessing your UC Davis email and computing accounts. Call 530 754-HELP (4357).

Options for computer repair on campus include:

• TechHUB, part of the UC Davis Bookstore. It offers Apple authorized repairs, repairs to out-of-warranty PCs, and more. Call 530-752-1302.
• Information and Educational Technology, which offers computer repair services to students for a reasonable fee. Call IT Express at 530-754-HELP (4357).