Recommendations for Computers
| Operating System |
Windows XP (Yes, we still recommend XP) |
| Processor |
Core 2 Duo Processor |
| RAM |
1 GB of memory/ram minimum (2 GB is better)* |
| Hard Drive |
40 GB or larger** |
| CD-ROM |
CD-RW drive (DVD or combo drive helpful) |
| Software |
MS Office Standard Edition (this includes Word, Excel and Powerpoint)*** |
| Network |
10/100 Ethernet/Network Card (RJ45 not USB)**** |
| Wireless |
Necessary, if you want to use the wireless internet on campus (comes standard in most laptops) |
*If you decide to purchase Windows Vista, we recommend 2GB of RAM.
**If you plan on putting a lot of pictures, movies and/or music on your PC, you may want a larger hard drive. If you are running Vista, we reccomend at least an 80 GB hard drive.
***Anti-Virus Software is required, but don't spend your money on it! Messiah College provides Sophos anti-virus to students free of cost. We also recommend Open Office, a free office suite completely compatible with the Microsoft Office suite as a money-saving alternative to purchasing Microsoft Office. To purchase software at a discounted rate for education, visit http://www.JourneyEd.com/SELECT
****We strongly recommend built in network cards in laptops vs. PCMCIA cards, however if you choose to get a PCMCIA card we recommend the type where the RJ45 network cable plugs directly into the card (not the type where it connects with a small cord).
Does a student need to bring a computer to Messiah College?
Messiah College does not require students to bring their own computer. There are 13 labs on campus with over 250 computers available to students 24 hours a day.
Does Student Computer Services recommend a specific make or model?
We do not recommend any specific makes or models. If you feel that space is an issue or the student likes the idea of using his/her computer to study in a group, you might want to consider a laptop. If you need a suggestion of where to start looking at computers consider the following:
- LAM Computers (a local Christian company with quick onsite service) Our sales rep is Joan Keele. (717)697-7500 ext 117
- Dell Computers with special discounts for Messiah students (www.dell.com/messiah) Please check the latest Dell sales flyers. Many times there is something on the sales flyer that will meet your requirements. Inspiron 1520 models have windows XP and Inspiron 1525 comes with Vista.
- Lenovo (Used to be IBM) Thinkpads have been a reliable long lasting PC for years. Take a look at the ThinkPad R61 15.4 widescreen.
- Toshiba - you want to look at the Tecra models. These are the models that are designed to stand up to the carrying back and forth to class that students do. The Satellite models don't stand up well to wear and tear.
What should a student bring with them to connect to the network?
In each residence hall or campus apartment bedroom there is only one live jack. This means that if two or more students in the same room wish to connect to the internet with a wired connection, they will need to have a hub (RJ45 not USB). Hubs are available from Student Computer Services (Fry A3) for a small fee ($20.00). This fee will be partially refunded when the hub is returned to Student Computer Services ($15.00 will be returned to the student). A network cable is required for each PC (10-15ft is recommended) plus one to connect the hub to the live jack in the wall. As of the fall of 2006, wireless network connection is also available in the residences.
NOTICE: DO NOT bring a ROUTER (wireless or wired) to campus and expect to use it. A switch/hub will split your wired connection for you, and Messiah now has wireless internet in all the residence halls. Routers interfere with our network, and you will be prevented from connecting through one.
What about Macintosh computers?
Macs integrate well with our network and we do offer Mac support. If you have questions about Macs at Messiah College please call the Manager of Student Computer Services, Berte Thompson at 717-766-2511 x2560.
And Vista? Why don't you recommend Vista?
As you may know, Vista has come out very recently and has many software and hardware compatibility problems at this time. Because of these and other factors, our department chooses not to recommend the operating system to students at this time. However, since most new computers come with Windows Vista and some students prefer it, Student Computer Services does support it for use on the Messiah College network. It is simply not our first choice.
Can I get send my PC to you to get configured ahead of time for your network?
PCs may be shipped to Messiah c/o Berte Thompson, Manager, Student Computer Services if space is an issue for fall transportation. PCs will be configured for Messiah's network and ready for pickup when the student arrives on campus.
Click here to see the General FAQ's page
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