Our recommendations and minimum system requirements are meant to provide general guidelines on which computer configurations work best in the UMass Amherst computing environment.
Desktop Computers
Recommended System Configurations
We recommend that you purchase a system that meets or exceeds the following basic specifications.
Processor (CPU): |
Intel Core 2 Duo |
Operating System: |
MS Windows XP Professional (with Service Pack 2) or Vista |
Memory: |
2 GB RAM |
Storage: |
100 GB internal hard drive |
CD-ROM: |
Combo DVD/CD-RW |
Monitor/Display: |
LCD monitor |
Other: |
Network Interface Card |
Minimum System Configurations
We support the following minimum computer configurations which you can use to connect to the campus-wide network.
Processor (CPU): |
Pentium III, at least 800 MHz |
Operating System: |
MS Windows 2000 Professional (with Service Pack 4) |
Memory: |
128 MB RAM |
Storage: |
20 GB internal hard drive |
CD-ROM: |
CD-RW |
Monitor/Display: |
LCD monitor |
Other: |
Network Interface Card |
Laptop Computers
More and more students are bringing laptop computers to UMass. More portable and, of course, much smaller than their desktop counterparts, these computers can take advantage of wireless networking available in many buildings and outdoor spaces on campus.
Recommended System Configurations
We recommend that you purchase a system that meets or exceeds the following basic specifications.
Processor (CPU): |
Intel Core Duo, 2.0 GHz |
Operating System: |
MS Windows XP Professional (with Service Pack 2) or Vista |
Memory: |
1 to 2 GB RAM |
Storage: |
80 GB internal hard drive |
CD-ROM: |
DVD/CD-RW |
Monitor/Display: |
14"/15" LCD |
Other: |
802.11b or 802.11g - compliant Wireless Network Card, Network Interface Card, Lock, Carrying Case |
Minimum System Configurations
We support the following minimum computer configurations which you can use to connect to the campus-wide network.
Processor (CPU): |
Pentium III, at least 800 MHz |
Operating System: |
MS Windows 2000 Professional (with Service Pack 4) |
Memory: |
128 MB RAM |
Storage: |
20 GB internal hard drive |
CD-ROM: |
CD-RW |
Monitor/Display: |
12" color monitor |
Other: |
802.11b or 802.11g - compliant Wireless Network Card, Network Interface Card, Lock, Carrying Case |
Tablet Computers
More and more students are bringing laptop computers to UMass. Tablets are a unique laptop where a stylus pen and touchscreen are used as input. Tablets are of growing interest in the classroom environment and an innovative method for note-taking. Consult with your academic advisor if you are unsure about the need for a tablet in your field of study.
Recommended System Configurations
We recommend that you purchase a system that meets or exceeds the following basic specifications.
Processor (CPU): |
Centrino M, 1.8 GHz |
Operating System: |
MS Windows XP Professional (with Service Pack 2) |
Memory: |
1 to 2 GB RAM |
Storage: |
80 GB internal hard drive |
CD-ROM: |
DVD/CD-RW Drive |
Monitor/Display: |
14" LCD |
Other: |
802.11b or 802.11g - compliant Wireless Network Card, Lock, Carrying Case |
Related Pages
Need Help?
If you encounter problems, submit an online Help Request.
- or -
Contact the OIT Help Desk at 545-9400.
