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Can you recommend a computer? |
While Shepherd does not require students to own a computer, we strongly encourage it. The decision to purchase a
Windows or Apple computer should be made based on your major. Linux based computers are becoming popular, but they
require a greater knowledge than PCs or Macs. Contact the department chair from your
area of study to determine which type is right for you.
Shepherd does not operate a computer store and we cannot repair computers. We strongly recommend you research vendors
and purchase a quality machine backed by good service. Vendors such as Dell, Apple, Gateway and HP have solid reputations.
Search for education discounts from the vendor and take advantage of them if offered. Consider extended warranties.
Our suggestions below are for students looking to purchase a computer that will last four years. |
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Windows
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Hardware Item |
Desktop |
Laptop |
| Processor “CPU” |
Intel / AMD multicore processor with a min
of 2.0 GHz, 2MB L2 cache |
Intel / AMD multicore processor with a min
of 2.0 GHz, 2MB L2 cache |
| Graphics Card “GPU” |
256MB* |
256MB* |
| Memory “RAM” |
2 GB with 4 GB preferred |
2 GB with 4 GB preferred |
| Hard drive “HDD” |
250GB |
250GB |
| CD / DVD Drive |
CD / DVD RW |
CD / DVD RW |
| Operating System |
Windows 7 or Linux
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Windows 7 or Linux
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| Network Interface |
10/100 Network card |
10/100 Network card |
| Monitor |
17 inch or larger |
14 inch or larger |
| Wireless Card |
No |
802.11 a/b/g compliant |
| Optional |
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| Warranty |
3 - 4 year Recommended
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3 - 4 year Recommended
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| Anti-Virus |
See recommendation below** |
See recommendation below** |
| Office Software |
Microsoft Office*** |
Microsoft Office*** |
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Macintosh
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Hardware Item |
Desktop |
Laptop |
| Processor “CPU” |
iMac with Intel multicore processor 2.0 Ghz minimum |
MacBook with Intel multicore processor 2.0 Ghz minimum |
| Graphics Card “GPU” |
128MB |
N/A |
| Memory “RAM” |
2 GB with 4 GB preferred |
2 GB with 4 GB preferred |
| Hard drive “HDD” |
250GB |
250GB |
| CD / DVD Drive |
CD / DVD RW |
CD / DVD RW |
| Network Interface |
10/100 Network card |
10/100 Network card |
| Monitor |
17 inch flat panel or larger |
13 inch |
| Wireless Card |
Airport Extreme |
Airport Extreme |
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Optional |
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| Warranty |
3 - 4 years Recommended |
3 - 4 years Recommended |
| Office Software |
Microsoft Office*** |
Microsoft Office*** |
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* Brand name is optional. nVidia and ATI both produce
excellent products.
** Shepherd recommends using either a free anti-virus program like Microsoft Security Essentials
or to have a subscription to a commercial product.
*** Microsoft Office can be purchased at a special discount rate. See Discount Software
for more details. |
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