Recommended Computer Configurations for 2009-2010
In This Section
From using email to enhancing student-faculty communications to conducting academic research, computers allow you to accomplish a broad range of educational activities. Therefore, UC Davis expects every student to own a computer that meets certain minimum performance standards and can connect effectively to the Internet. When purchasing a computer, students should seriously consider purchasing a laptop. Laptops have the considerable advantage and convenience of being mobile and easy to bring to classes, the library, wireless study lounges, cafés, etc. Consult your department about specific software and/or hardware requirements that may be different from the recommended configurations listed below.
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Additional computing notes
The recommendations for Windows PC computers on this site meet the hardware requirements of Microsoft's newest operating system, Vista. If you have questions about Vista or its compatibility with campus applications, see http://iet.ucdavis.edu/microsoft/vista/index.cfm.
1. Backing up files:
At a minimum, you should backup your important files to CD, DVD, or USB drive. To backup your entire system, you should consider purchasing an external backup drive. If you need to backup various large files, such as multimedia and music files, you should consider purchasing an external hard drive with up to a third more storage than your hard drive (e.g., roughly 200 GB for a 160 GB hard drive). If you’re backing up smaller files, a few GB may suffice. For more information on computer backups, please visit the UC Davis Security Site.
2. Display:
Laptop – Laptop displays should have a minimum resolution of 1024x768, but more importantly, the display should be comfortable to read and view. Laptop displays vary in size from about 12 inches up to 17 inches; however be aware that the larger the display, the more the computer weighs. We advise viewing the monitor or the monitor of a comparable model, before purchasing, to determine reading and viewing comfort. Additionally, consider your current and future computing needs when deciding between a standard or widescreen monitor.
Desktop – Desktop displays should have a minimum resolution of 1024x768. We recommend a 19” flat panel.
3. Network interface card (NIC):
A network-ready computer has an installed Ethernet network interface card (NIC). Visually inspect your computer for the RJ-45 port that indicates an NIC. An RJ-45 jack looks similar to a regular telephone jack used by modems and telephones, but it is slightly wider. You must also have an Ethernet cable with RJ-45 connectors to connect your computer NIC to the data wall jack in your dorm room. For best performance, the cable should be Category 5, 5e, 6, or better. The recommended length is about 15 feet. You can purchase a 10 Base-T or twisted pair network pair cable from the TechHUB.
4. Printer:
In lieu of bringing your own printer, you may use the printers located in the computer rooms on campus. While you may incur a small cost for the number of sheets you print in the computer rooms, it may be less expensive for you to use the campus printers than purchasing a personal printer. IET also provides a wireless printing service that allows you the option of printing to one of the several computer rooms from your laptop while using the UC Davis Wireless Network.
If you decide to purchase a personal printer, remember to consider the cost of replacement ink/toner and other supplies. We suggest choosing a LaserJet printer versus an Inkjet. While a LaserJet may cost more up front, it is more reliable and costs much less per page than the Inkjet.
5. Operating system (OS):
Microsoft Vista – The recommendations for Windows PC computers on this site meet the hardware requirements of Microsoft's newest operating system, Vista.
Macintosh OS X Leopard – The recommendations for Apple computers on this site meet the hardware requirements of OS X 10.5 (Leopard).
6. Software:
UC Davis offers a variety of software available for download off the Software License Coordination (SLC) Web site. The campus also offers free Sophos anti-virus software to all students, staff and faculty. (Please note that Sophos Anti-Virus may not be used by UC Davis Health System students, staff, or faculty. UCDHS has a separate agreement with McAfee for anti-virus software).The TechHUB offers productivity, creativity, and other software packages to students, staff and faculty at special academic pricing that may be substantially lower than commercial vendors.
Tech support
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 for help at 530-754-HELP (4357).
The campus also offers computer repair services to students for a reasonable fee. For more information, contact Desktop Enterprise Services (DES) at 530-757-8907, or email them at desktop@ucdavis.edu.