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Computer & Accessories Information

Minimum Recommended Specifications - Fall 2011

  • Processor

    Dual Core - 2.0 GHz or higher

  • Memory (RAM)

    2GB or greater for Windows 7

  • Hard Drive

    160 GB or greater, plus an external hard drive (for backup purposes)

  • Wireless Adapter

    • Multiple standards accepted for the Wi-Fi adapter - 802.11 a/b/g/n
    • NCSSM wireless network uses WPA2 Enterprise security.
    • Most recently purchased computers should support WPA2 Enterprise security.

  • Network Card

    100/1000 integrated on systems board - Wired Ethernet is not available in dorms.

  • Video

    128 MB - usually integrated on systems board

  • Audio

    Integrated on systems board

  • Display Screen size

    11" or greater (13" for Macs), 1200 x 800 resolution

  • Battery

    6 cell or greater

  • Operating Systems

    Windows 7, Mac OS X, and Linux. NCSSM offers a full install of Windows 7 Professional.

  • Desktop Applications

    • Students are furnished Microsoft Office 2010 & classroom applications only during NCSSM attendance.
    • NCSSM also supports Microsoft Office 2011 for Mac.

  • Anti-Virus Programs

    • An active Anti-virus program is required.
    • PCs often come with a trial anti-virus program that expires after a short period of time.
    • Download the free Microsoft Security Essentials - simple install, automatic updates.

  • Warranty

    • At least 2 years
    • Complete Care Coverage - covers accidental damage
    • On-site Repair

      • Students need a copy of the terms of the warranty to facilitate guidance from NCSSM ITS.

Computer Examples

Apple MacBook

  • Starts at $949 (5% discount)
  • Intel Core 2 Duo 2.4GHz Processor
  • 2 GB RAM
  • 250 GB hard drive
  • 13.3" display
  • Includes web cam
  • 1 year warranty

    Website: Apple NCSSM Shop

Lenovo Thinkpad x120e

  • Around $529
  • AMD Fusion 1.5GHz Processor
  • 2 GB RAM
  • 320 GB hard drive
  • 11.6" display
  • Include web cam
  • Does Not Include CD/DVD Burner
  • 1 year warranty

    Website: UNC Ram Shop NCSSM Store

Recommended Computer Accessories

  • Printer

    USB inkjet printer with extra black and colored ink cartridges

    Only USB cable connections allowed

  • Optical Disc Drive

    DVD±RW/DVD-RAM or Blu-ray burner.

  • Flash Drive

    8 GB or more for academic data back-up

  • External Hard Drive

    100 GB or more for full data recovery

  • Padded Laptop sleeve or carrying case

    For carrying to and from classes

Vendors and Manufacturers