Laptop Minimum Hardware Requirements

From TechHelp - MCLA's Technology Help Center

Laptop Minimum System Specifications for Students

Make sure you arrive at MCLA with everything you need to get connected to the internet as easily as possible. Most laptop computers purchased within the last few years will connect to our network without any problems. However, if you are looking to purchase a laptop computer or bring one from home, you should check out our minimum system specifications.

Laptop Computers

PC Laptops

	Minimum Specifications	Recommended Specifications
OS	Windows XP	Windows XP Professional
Processor	800 MHz or better	1.8 ghz or better*
Memory	256 MB or better	1 gb or better
Wired Network Card	10/100 baseT Ethernet	10/100 baseT Ethernet
Wireless Network Adapter	802.11b/g	Integrated 802.11a/b/g
Removable Storage	3.5 inch floppy and CD-ROM	Writable CD and USB Thumbdrive
Hard Drive	10 GB hard drive space	60 GB hard drive space or larger

• *Processor speed ratings are different for Centrino notebooks. If you are buying a Centrino notebook 1.4ghz or 1.5ghz is recommended.

Apple Laptops

OS	Mac OS 10.1 or newer	Mac OS 10.3 or newer
Processor	Mac G4 300mhz	Mac G4 or G5 1000mhz (1ghz) or better
Memory	128 MB or better	512mb or better
Wired Network Card	10/100 baseT Ethernet	10/100 baseT Ethernet
Wireless Network Adapter	802.11b/g	Integrated 802.11a/b/g
Removable Storage	3.5 inch floppy and CD-ROM	Writable CD and USB Thumbdrive
Hard Drive	10 GB hard drive space	60 GB hard drive space or larger

• You will also need an RJ-45 cable to connect the computer to our network. These are similar to phone cables in appearance, and can be purchased as the college's bookstore or 'computer superstores'. Ask for an "Ethernet cable" of at least 10 feet.

• All MCLA students are eligible to receive Microsoft software through E-Academy at a considerable discount. Microsoft Office 2007 is the standard productivity suite at MCLA.

Related Links

• MCLA's Laptop Initiative
• E-Academy
• Network