Hardware Information  (Click here for Software information)

Computers with the system configurations below will run the latest applications including Microsoft Word & Excel and support Oracle and Peoplesoft.  Systems with these specifications, purchased from our recommended vendors, will fit within a four-year replacement cycle. Check back each time you are planning a computer purchase as these specifications are reviewed and updated frequently.  It is expected that systems you purchase meet these minimum specifications. When Information Technologies upgrades core business systems (e.g. Peoplesoft), we take into account the state of the current desktop environment. Keeping your local computing technology up-to-date ensures that you will be able to run the latest software. If your computers don't meet these minimum specifications, we cannot guarantee compatibility with the latest software required to do business on campus and support from IT will be limited.    

While advertised systems may meet these specifications, it is not recommended that you purchase the lowest priced system you might find. To reach those low price points, vendors compromise on the quality of their components, limit expandability, and offer shorter warranty periods. You truly get what you pay for. Click the link to the right "Ordering a computer" under Institutional Purchases to find recommended vendors and links to their sites. Configurations from recommended vendors matching these specifications are available for demonstration from Client Support & Services in the basement of Smith Hall.  Click "Hours & location" at the right.  

It is important to note that these specifications are recommendations for computers running typical administrative applications on the UD campus.  If you are running specialized software, please contact the IT Help Center (consult@udel.edu) for specifications to meet your needs.   

Ways to Save!

You may want to consider reusing existing monitors with your new computers. Unless you have an old, smaller monitor, there really isn't any reason to purchase a new monitor with each purchase of a new computer.  Skipping a life-cycle should be fine.  Consider your needs before making this decision.  If you or your staff would benefit from larger monitors and the additional space it provides, purchase new monitors and consider ways to roll-down monitors within your department for the most efficient use.

Bundle your purchases! Purchasing multiple identical systems will get you a better price from a vendor. If possible, work with others within your college to get the best price. Remember though that when you stray from identical systems there will probably be no cost savings due to the customization of your order.

Consider keeping your computers longer.  Check this page and compare them to the specifications of your existing computers.  Contact the IT Help Center if you need help determining the specifications.  

Netbooks, also known as subnotebooks, are becoming increasingly popular.   Netbooks are miniature laptop computers with smaller screens, keyboards and, in most cases, slower processors.  They can run standard software like Word, Excel, e-mail and web browsers, but performance may be an issue.  Due to their size & construction, they are not made for prolonged use.  They are ideal for travel and moving about campus.  IT recommends that you review your needs and actually sit down and use a netbook before purchasing such a system.  IT Client Support & Services has demo equipment that you can try out in the basement of Smith Hall.  Check hours and location on the link to the right.  No appointment is necessary.

Macintosh Computers - Please contact the IT Help Center (consult@udel.edu) if you are considering purchasing Macintosh computers for administrative work on campus. In most cases they will be fine but there are some limitations in administrative applications if you run only the Macintosh operating system (Mac OS X). Current Macintosh systems can run both Mac OS X and Windows, IT staff can make recommendations on the best way to configure Macintosh systems for campus use.

Software

The University of Delaware has signed an agreement with Microsoft that entitles all departments—and every faculty and staff member—to licenses for Microsoft Office for Windows and Macintosh.  This includes Word, Excel, Access (Windows-only), and Powerpoint.  When purchasing systems you do not need to include Microsoft Office.  It is available for download at https://udeploy.udel.edu/Win/MS/index.html  You will need your UDelNet ID and password to download the software.

Windows Vista and Windows 7 are also available under our licensing agreement.  In most cases you cannot purchase a system without an operating system.  You may want to consider upgrading other systems in your office to maintain consistency.  Please contact the IT-Help Center (consult@udel.edu) for advice on operating system upgrades.

All systems should run the latest anti-virus software located here:

http://www.udel.edu/topics/virus/mcafee/index.html

Recommended web browsers are listed here:  

http://www.udel.edu/ideacenter/software.html

The recommended e-mail client depends on what computer you have and what e-mail system you use. It is best that you check with your local IT support personnel or contact the IT Help Center (consult@udel.edu) for advice on which e-mail client to use.

Remember to backup your data frequently.  Instructions on this are available here:

http://www.udel.edu/topics/backups/