What about other platforms?

Non-Wintel systems are not included in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences recommendation because of concerns about software compatability.It can easily be that software required for your use in class may only run on Windows 95 machines.  If you select another platform you must be able to perform the tasks (including running specific software packages) required by your instructors as well as to deliver documents to them in the required formats. These tasks may require the use of a Windows 95 computer.

Can I dial into the network from the Residence Halls?

The Division of Housing has campus network access in many dorm rooms on campus.  Check with housing regarding the availability of network access and how you can go about attaching your computer to the campus network in your residence hall room.

What if my computer doesn't have all the parts listed?

All the parts listed in the college policy will be required by your courses. If, for example, your computer does not have a CD-ROM drive, you will be unable to install and run software required for your course work.  Plan to upgrade your computer to include all the parts listed in the college policy. 

What's an ethernet card?

An ethernet card, also known as a network interface card (NIC) is a device installed in your computer which allows it to be attached to the campus network.  If you plan to use your computer on campus (see below), your computer will need a 10BaseT ethernet card.  The University may limit the brands of ethernet cards that will be supported on campus.  Please check this page periodically for details on support of ethernet cards in student computers. 

Can I use my computer on campus?

You may certainly use your computer on campus.  Laptop computers are welcome and the University will have "access labs" where network computers with ethernet cards can be attached to the campus network.  If you do not have a laptop and you live in a residence hall, you may be able to connect your computer to the Division of Housing network.  If you do not have a laptop and you do not live in a residence hall, you will probably not use your computer on campus.

Can I get Internet access for my family?

The University has contracted with IBM Internet Connection for Education (ICE) to provide an Intenet access package for students and families.  Check the ICE page for details on this service.

What word processor should I use?

The College does not have a requirement that you use a particular word processor.  We suggest you use a recent version of either Corel WordPerfect or Microsoft Word. However, specific classes may require particular software.

Can I pay less than $2,000 for my computer?

You can certainly find computers that meet the college requirements and cost less than $2,000.  But just as with other major purchases, you often "get what you pay for." Inexpensive computers often use inexpensive parts and have minimal service agreements.  Your computer will be an important tool for you work at UF.  You should plan to purchase a computer that you can rely on and that can be serviced. 

Can I use other tools?

You can use software other than Netscape Communicator for web and email, but you may not be able to get questions answered about it.  Your classmates, instructor and others at UF are unlikely to be able to help you if you use other tools and other tools may not have features that will make your work easier and that your instructors will assume that you have and can use. 

Should I buy now or wait?

Wait.  The computer market changes very rapidly.  The college computer requirements may be periodically in order to stay abreast of developments in the computer industry.  Prices for computing equipment are falling.  It is best to wait to get the most computer you can for your dollars. 

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Last updated: Aug 11, 2004 (05:44:55 PM EDT)
URL: http://www.clasnet.ufl.edu/computers/student/faq.shtml