Hardware & Software Minimal Requirements
for a Web Based Course

Hardware:

  
CPU: IBM PC compatible 80486 or higher processor or a Macintosh PowerMac with a 68040 processor chip.
Memory: 10 MB RAM (16 MB recommended or whatever will run your browser best)
Storage Space: 12 MB unused hard drive space or whatever your browser needs
Minimum modem speed of 28.8.
Optional:  Depending on the course you are taking, you may also need a sound card with speakers for playing audio files.  Some courses may require specific plug-ins in order to hear or view certain files.

 
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 95/98 or NT 4 for PCs. Macintosh needs System 7.

Connection: A dial-up connection through an Internet Service Provider or a content provider like NetWest, USAOnline, AOL, CompuServe, EarthLink, or NetZero to name just a few. We do not make recommendations on which of the many ISPs you could use. Note, however, that many users have experienced problems with the AOL proprietary browser. There are ways around the problems, but they will require some work. You will need to contact AOL homepage if this is your ISP.

Browser: Netscape Communicator/Navigator 4.x or higher, or Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.x or higher Netscape Communicator will also give you an Internet mail program. Navigator is just the browser. If you click on one of the above links, you can download the browser software free.

Don't forget to enable Java and JavaScript in your browser; many web sites and web courses use JavaScript. 

Other Applications:

Compress/Uncompress Utility - This type of utility allows you to create compressed files and open files that have been compressed.  Mac Users often use StuffIt.  PC users can use pkzip/pkunzip (runs in DOS window) or Winzip for Windows.

Optional:  Sound and video players like QuickTime (for Apple and PC-based computers), RealPlayer, Windows Media Player. If any of these terms are new to you, try this online dictionary of computer terms. PCWebopaedia

Alternatives to having your own great computer system:

If you are enrolled at Odessa College and you live in the Basin area, you can use the computer labs in the LRC, rooms 301 and 302 on the third floor or in the CT building (these are PC platform) or the ET building (these are MAC platform) when classes are not using them.  Lab assistants are scheduled each day to assist you in the LRC labs.   Please see the lab assistants and check the rules and guidelines for using the LRC labs.

The public library may have computers that you can use either for free (with a time limit) or for a nominal fee. Call  your local city or county public library for details.

Your employer: Ask your boss about using a company computer to take an online college course.