Equipment
What Equipment do I need to get Online?
To take advantage of the Wireless Network program, you may need the following:
- An 802.11g (or 802.11b) wireless enabled computer; the majority of new laptops have built-in wireless (e.g. Centrino) with installation software. (802.11g Wireless Adaptor cards support a bandwidth of 54Mbps, while earlier 802.11b devices operate at the slower 11Mbps.) If you do not have built-in wireless, external wireless cards (generally fitting into the PCI slot) are widely available at a reasonable price.
- Internet Security Software including Antivirus software (including an annual subscription) and a Firewall (now built into most operating systems).
Where can I buy computer accessories?
Students often ask where the nearest computer store is. Depending on what you are looking to buy below are some useful stores listed according to their distance from each main campus; www.streetmap.co.uk can help with directions.
Kensington Campus |
distance from Atlantic House, |
Richmond Campus |
distance from the Main Building, |
PC World |
0.4 miles |
Argos |
1.1 miles |
Argos |
0.7 miles |
PC World |
3.5 miles |
Minimum Specifications for a laptop/desktop computer.
If you are yet to purchase a computer, then use these minimum specifications to guide your purchase. On the other hand, for those of you how already have purchased a computer, you are advised of these minimum specifications. There is no restriction to the manufacturer or supplier, but we would recommend brand new equipment from reputable multinational companies which we will also have had experience of, such as Compaq, Dell or IBM.
Voltage and Power Issues. For laptops, most charger tranformers (box built into power cord) are compatible with most power supplies. Check the label on the transformer for 'input' ranges; as long as these ranges are inclusive of 50Hz and 220V, a simple change of plug to the UK 3-pin type is sufficient. (Most transformer input ranges will be '50-60Hz' and '120-240V'.) Some desktop systems are also equipped with compatible power supplies, though you will generally have to change a switch on the back of your computer. When this is not the case, you will need to purchase an external voltage converter; for instance, American equipment will need to convert the UK mains power of 220-240V AC at 50Hz down to 110-120V AC at 60Hz in order for the equipment to function properly. Sometimes is is cheaper to buy a new, compatible power supply.
|
Recommended Minimum Specification. |
Operating System |
Windows XP Service Pack 2 |
Productivity Tools |
Microsoft Office 2003 |
|
Sun Java Runtime Environment 6 (www.java.sun.com) |
Anti-virus Software + Firewall |
Compulsory. Only use commercial versions, with annual subscription. |
Processor |
Pentium IV or Pentium Mobile or Any Intel Duo Core or AMD 64 |
Speed |
1 Ghz or greater |
Memory |
512 MB RAM |
Hard disk |
20 GB |
Free Hard disk space |
5 GB |
Ports |
USB, PCMCIA slot I/II, external video and PS/2 port |
Floppy drive |
NOT REQUIRED |
CD or DVD drive |
Any |
USB drive |
Recommended |
Wireless Network card |
It is a requirement that a machine supports TCP/IP (Internet) and supports the IEEE 802.11b or g standards; i.e. it supports a wireless card. |
Monitor |
14" or 15" inch TFT |
External Mouse |
Recommended |
Printer |
Optional |
|
Warranty |
Highly recommended. 3 year international or UK on-site |
Insurance |
Recommended; comprehensive breakage, theft & hazard preferred |
Non Windows?
If you are running
|
Mac OS 9.x, or OS X 10.1 or later |
G3 or G4 processor |
| Linux |
This is not supported. Suggest you partition hard drive such that MS Windows can be run. |
Internet Security Software
No Internet Security Software that includes Antivirus and Firewall = No Internet Access
Any users found to have a virus through their own negligence will be cut off from RU Wireless immediately. Do NOT connect your computer to Richmond Wireless until you are positive that your operating system is up to date with all security patches. ALWAYS run an updated virus checker, set to auto update virus type definitions (DATs, libraries, etc). Ideally the checker should connect back to the vendor site and auto-update at least every month. If you run an outdated virus checker, it's worthless. Some good antivirus tools exist at www.symantec.com, www.antivirus.com and www.mcafee.com.
