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Recommendations for hardware and software for student computers in the University are provided in a document at the URL:
< http://www.unimelb.edu.au/student/CompStd.htm>
These standards are intended as a guide for those who manage student computing laboratories, those who provide support to students who use computers, and for students considering buying a computer of their own. Such a guide cannot be comprehensive: some disciplines have specific requirements. The intention here is to guide the selection of equipment for general computing and network access.
As part of your studies you are likely to use a computer. Even though facilities are provided on campus, some students already have a computer or choose to purchase one for their studies. The following information is intended to define some of the terminology you may encounter. It explains the purpose of the basic components of a computer and provides you with knowledge to help you choose computer equipment to purchase.
This is the Central Processing Unit of your computer. It is found on the motherboard inside the box where most of the hardware components are housed. The CPU is a silicon chip that acts as the brains of your computer. The terms Pentium, Pentium Pro, Pentium II, Pentium III, MMX, G3 and G4 all refer to the latest range of chips available.
The hard disk is where your computer stores its operating system, software applications such as Microsoft Office, email and your data files. Drives are measured in MB (megabytes) or in GB (gigabytes). One GB is 1,024MB. Most new machines have a hard drive with a capacity from four to nine GB.
Often referred to as RAM (Random Access Memory).The amount of RAM on your system will affect how well your software performs. If you haven't got enough, your software may perform slowly. Most entry-level machines now have a minimum of 64 MB RAM; it is important that there are extra slots available in the computer to add more RAM if you require it.
Most systems have CD ROM drive. Most new software applications are on CD (rather than floppy disk) making it easier to load and store software. CD speeds can range from single speed to 48 speed (the higher the number the quicker information is read from the disc). Some computers now come with a Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) drive instead of a CD ROM drive.
This drive is where you insert floppy disks for reading and saving files. Floppy disks are being superseded by Zip and other formats, which have 100+ MB capacity. A standard 3.5" floppy disk holds 1.4MB.
Monitors are of different sizes and have different resolutions. The size is measured in inches diagonally across the viewable screen. Resolution is measured in pixels or dots. You should aim to have at least 1024 x 768 resolution.
If you want to access the Internet from your home, you'll need a modem and an Internet Service Provider. Modems have different speeds, which are expressed either in Kbps (kilobits per second) or bps (bits per second). One Kbps is equal to 1,024 bps. At present 56Kbps is the standard speed for new modems.
The operating system manages the file storage on your system and acts as an interface between your hardware and software applications. There are a number of operating systems available for an IBM compatible computer: Windows ME, Windows 98, Windows95, WindowsNT, Windows 3.1, and DOS. The most common operating system for home use on an IBM compatible is Windows 98. It is hard to get help or ISP services using older systems such as DOS and Windows 3.1
Apple uses its own operating system which is pre-loaded onto each Macintosh. The latest version is MacOS 9.
Other commonly used software in the University includes Eudora for email; Microsoft Office for word processing, spreadsheets and databases; and Netscape, for accessing the web and email.
Your own faculty or department may also advise you about software specifically for your subjects. Your lecturer can advise you of any additional software you may wish to acquire at the commencement of your subject. Of course, departments which require you to use specific course related software will generally give students access to facilities which have this software available in University computer laboratories.
Before purchasing a computer there are several things you must consider. A web page detailing recommended standards can be found at:
< http://www.unimelb.edu.au/student/CompStd.htm>
or
< http://www.unimelb.edu.au/student/CompStd.pdf>
for a printable version of the document.
Ask yourself the following questions:
Consider what sort of computers your faculty of department uses when making the decision whether to buy a Macintosh or an IBM compatible. But remember software is generally available on both platforms and documents usually can be transferred easily between Mac and PC.
When you have decided how much to spend and what you want, you should ask the retailer specific questions, including:
There are many computer retailers in Melbourne and in surrounding suburbs. Try to choose one which is reputable and well-established: they do come and go and it's best to choose a dealer who is likely to stay in business, even if this means paying slightly more.
A service to consider is University Computer Supplies (UCS) run by the Information Division in the University. They are able to supply products to University departments and students. They have a web-based service for online purchasing of a wide range of IBM compatible and Apple Macintosh hardware and software. The UCS price list is available via the Internet at:
< http://net-commerce.its.unimelb.edu.au/>
Student specials are often held, especially at the commencement of each University semester.
Buying a computer is a big decision. Being well informed of your requirements and the capabilities of the systems will assist you in choosing the system that best matches your needs and budget.
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Date Created: 07-Feb-2001 Last Modified: 07-Feb-2001 Authorized by: Director, Client Services, Information Division Maintained by: Paul Edwards Copyright © 2001 The University of Melbourne