Yes. UC Davis expects every entering undergraduate student to own a computer that meets certain minimum performance standards and that can connect effectively to the Internet. Professors will expect you to have access to a computer, and you will be responsible for computer-related class assignments and activities whether you actually own a computer or not. Thus, the campus regards a computer that meets certain minimum performance standards as a tool that will enhance your academic experience.

The campus expects your computers to be able to run word processing, spreadsheet and email programs, a Web browser, and to be equipped with a CD-ROM drive. See the recommended computer configurations for detailed specifications.

If your present computer runs word-processing, spreadsheet, email, and Web-browsing programs well, but doesn't meet the new recommended computer configurations, it may still be adequate for general work, at least initially. As your curriculum becomes more advanced, especially in the graphic arts and sciences, you may need to upgrade at some point. In general, the older the computer, the more likely you will need to upgrade. Check out the specifications for obsolete computers. Obsolete systems generally cannot run current software products, access some files required for classes, and are commonly unsupported by vendors.

The campus supports both Macintosh and PC-compatible computer platforms. Check with your major department to see if they recommend one platform over the other. If not, the choice is up to you. The performance differences between Macs and PCs are minimal, both should meet your basic word processing, spreadsheet, and Internet needs.

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, cafes, etc.

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.

In lieu of bringing your own printer, you may use the printers located in the computer rooms on campus. 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.

See Purchasing a Computer.

It's difficult to say exactly how long a computer will last - mostly because you can tax the capabilities of your computer system more and more as you integrate it into your daily work. The configurations recommended are designed to have a two to four year life span. If you are going to use your computer for applications beyond basic Internet and word processing, you may need to upgrade your hardware more frequently.

You can purchase from any vendor you choose as long as the computer you buy meets or exceeds the campus recommended specifications. The UC Davis Bookstore TechHUB sells computers that meet the recommended specifications.

The Financial Aid Office has developed a Computer Purchase Program that may provide eligible undergraduate financial aid recipients with a loan to purchase a computer. For more details, check with the Financial Aid Office.

It's your responsibility to ensure you have access to a computer by your first quarter at UC Davis. If you do not own computer by that time, you need to make sure that you are able to use another computer.

No, the campus does not have a computer lending program.

Information and Educational Technology (IET) manages 17 campus computer rooms with almost 500 computers. Several of the computer rooms are equipped with both Macintosh and PC computers, and all of the computers have a wide range of software. Some rooms are Open Access labs and are never reserved for classes or seminars. Open Access labs are available for use at any time during the lab's normal operating hours. For more information about all of the IET-managed labs, locations, and hours, check out the Student Computing Guide Web site at http://clm.ucdavis.edu/rooms.

If you're going to live in the dorms, you will have access to the Computer Centers located in each of the residence hall areas. These are managed by Student Housing and have computers and other educational resources for dorm residents. See the Computer Centers Web page for more information.

There are numerous wireless locations on campus. See Wireless Networking for a list of locations.

Yes, class registration can only be done online at SISWEB. Remember, you may also use the campus computer labs to register for classes.

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 Student Computing Web site is an all-in-one resource for learning more about campus computing services, and is a gateway to the many UC Davis Web sites that can help you find out about computing resources. Additionally, the Student Computing Web site posts current news and information about student computing jobs.