Computer Requirements
All students are required to have access to a dependable computer with a reliable Internet service provider (ISP) or internet connection. Students taking traditional online and web supported courses should have a computer that meets the minimum requirements listed below. These suggested system requirements will enhance the student’s ability to access and use online course materials as well as review content and lectures presented in class. Computer hardware and software that are less than the specifications may cause technical problems interfacing with Blackboard.
Preferably, students should consider having a DSL or Cable Internet connection, or other high speed connection. A dial-up can be used, but students will experience slower access, and slower download and upload speeds for course materials.
Faculty often use Microsoft PowerPoint presentation software to present course content, and students will need the software to read the PowerPoint files (Microsoft Office 97 or later). However, a free PowerPoint viewer may be downloaded from the Microsoft web site so that students do not have to purchase the full software product (see below). A recent version of MS Internet Explorer web browser is also required and can be downloaded free at the Microsoft web page. Many faculty utilize Flash to present online lectures. Student must have Flash Player 7 or higher to view these lectures. Flash Player is a free download at the Adobe Acrobat web page. See "Software Add-Ons" below.
Students are solely responsible for maintenance, repair, and upgrading of their personal computers.
System Requirements
PC Systems:
| Minimum PC Requirements | Suggested PC System |
| 500 MHz processor | 1 Ghz or faster processor |
| 128 MB RAM | 256 MB RAM or more |
| 20GB hard drive | 40 GB or larger hard drive |
| CD-ROM drive | DVD/CD-RW drive |
| 15" color monitor (1024x768 res.) | 17" color monitor (1024x768 res) |
| Windows 2000 or later | Windows XP Pro or Home |
| Microsoft Office 97 | Microsoft Office XP |
| Cable or DSL broadband connection | Printer |
| MS Internet Explorer, v. 6 or later | Scanner |
| Sound card, speakers/headphones | Web cam |
Required Browser setting for Blackboard: (Go to “Tools” then to “Internet Options”)
1. Enable scripting (Default Security Settings)
2. Enable java applets (For Internet Explorer only)
3. Enable cookies (Medium Privacy setting in Internet Explorer)
Macintosh Systems:
| Minimum Mac Requirements | Suggested Mac System |
| G3 processor | G4 processor |
| 128 MB RAM | 256 MB RAM or more |
| 256 MB RAM or more | 20 GB or larger hard drive |
| DVD/CD-ROM drive | DVE/CD-RW drive |
| Sound capabilities | Sound capabilities |
| 15" color monitor (1024 X 768 resolution) | 17" color monitor (1024 X 768 resolution) |
| Sound card, speakers, headphones | Sound card, speakers, headphones |
| Printer | Printer |
| Cable or DSL broadband connection | Scanner |
| Mac OS 9 or higher | Web cam |
| Microsoft Office 98 | Cable or DSL broadband connection |
| MAC OSX (capable of running OS 9 apps) | |
| Microsoft Office v.X |
Software Add-Ons
Flash Viewer
Adobe Reader
Windows Media Player (or Winamp and/or QuickTime)
Virus Software
VPN Client
Shopping for software - An internet search for the cost of the MS PowerPoint Presentation program. Biz Rate, this site gives a variety of prices. ASU Campus Bookstore offers an academic package for $98.25 (MS Office).
Tips on Using Library Resources Via the Net - TILT is a website kept by the University of Texas that is an excellent resource and review designed to acquaint you with on-line access to library needs.
PowerPoint Viewer Download & Samples - This is a website that might give you a little help with what can be accomplished with MS PowerPoint. Three D Graphics