Residential Network
Computers are essential to the living, learning, and teaching experiences at Bethune-Cookman University. While approximately 500 computers are available in the residence halls, computer labs, and classrooms, there is no substitute for having a computer for your personal use. A Student's Guide for Bringing a Computer to Bethune-Cookman University will provide you with the necessary information to buy a new computer or bring an existing computer to campus that will best fit your needs and that will connect easily to the campus-wide network.
Owning a computer will greatly enhance your years at Bethune-Cookman University. Students use computers daily for online classes, to access library reference materials, communicate via e-mail and instant messaging, participate in on-line discussions, research information using the Internet, access syllabi and lecture materials, analyze data, register for classes, and write papers. The Bethune-Cookman University ResNet program provides each student with a connection to our high-speed campus-wide network from their residence hall so they can conveniently accomplish all of these activities from their personal computer.
This guide outlines the specifications required to connect a computer to Bethune-Cookman University's network and run network-related software as well as other standard software used by students. It also provides information to help you navigate through both the technical and personal options available to you when purchasing a computer.
Purchasing a new computer is very similar to purchasing a new car: you will be spending a significant amount of money for a tool that will greatly impact and enhance your life. When you purchase a computer, just as when you buy a car, you need to spend quality time researching what brands, models, and options best fit your needs. This guide is here to help you find the best computer to match your needs. For additional information you can read computing and consumer magazines, visit computer manufacturers' web sites, and test various models at retail outlet that sale and service computers.
ResNet Shopping Guide
Recommended Systems
Computers meeting or exceeding these recommendations can be expected to have a useful network life of 2-4 years. Most new computers will meet or exceed these recommendations.
Our recommended ResNet computer specifications for IBM Compatible computers include:
- Microsoft Windows XP Professional Edition or Vista Business or Ultimate (Only)
- 1.80GHz Core 2 Duo processor or better for desktop computers
- 1.66GHz Core 2 Duo processor or better for notebook computers
- At least 1GB RAM
- 80GB hard drive or larger
- Microsoft Office Professional Edition 2003
- Fully Functional Antivirus Software: i.e. Norton AV, McAfee AV, Trend Micro AV, etc.
Our recommended ResNet computer specifications for Macintosh computers include:
- Mac OS X version 10.4 or later
- 1.83 GHz Core 2 Duo processor (includes current iMacs and iBooks)
- At least 1GB RAM
- 80GB hard drive or larger
- Microsoft Office 2004 (for Mac OS X)
Our recommended specifications for all computers include:
- Ethernet cable (Cat 5e, RJ-45 connector)
- CD-RW/DVD-ROM ("Combo") drive
- Built-in 10/100/1000 Fast Ethernet PCI Network Interface Card
- An 802.11b or 802.11g compatible wireless network card
- Inkjet printer with USB 2.0 printer cable or printer serial cable.
Minimum Systems
These specifications are listed if you are not planning to bring a new computer to campus. Computers meeting or exceeding these recommendations can be expected to have a userful network life on 1-2 years, and may require hardware or software upgrades later.
Our minimum ResNet computer specifications for IBM Compatible computers include:
- Windows 2000 Professional (We do not support Windows 95, 98, Millennium, XP Home edition, Vista Home Basic or Vista Premium)
- Pentium III processor or better
- At least 256MB RAM
- 20GB hard drive or larger
- An installed 3Com 10/100Base-T Ethernet card
- Microsoft Office Office 2000
- Fully Functional Antivirus Software: i.e. Norton AV, McAfee AV, Trend Micro AV, etc.
Our minimum ResNet computer specifications for Macintosh computers include:
- Mac OS 9.2 or later
- G3 processor
- At least 256MB RAM
- 20GB hard drive or larger
- Built-in 10/100Base-T Ethernet
Our minimum specifications for all computers include:
- Ethernet cable (Cat 5e, RJ-45 connector)
- CD-ROM or CD-RW drive
- Deskjet Printer with USB or serial cable
Computers that do not meet these minimum specifications will not have access to the campus network.
Other Computer-Related Items Students May Need or Want
- Lockdown device for notebook
- Notebook carrying case
- All software that came with the desktop or notebook computer
- Additional computer software (Other installed programs)
- USB flash memory drive/memory stick
- Ergonomic or wireless keyboard and mouse
- Mouse pad
- CD carrying case
- Various adapter cables (for printer, scanner)
- Surge Protector
- Computer cleaning materials
Whom Do I Contact If I Have Questions?
You can e-mail your ResNet questions to helpdesk@cookman.edu or contact us at (386) 481-2070.
