Recommended Computer Standards

Thinking about purchasing a computer for home use?
The information below is a guide to assist in selecting a suitable computer. The type of computer required will depend on the UOW course you are undertaking and the software required – it is recommended that you consult with the relevant Faculty for any special hardware/software requirements before purchasing a computer.

Minimum Desktop Specifications

Operating System	Windows 7 Home
Processor Speed	2.0 GHz
RAM	4GB RAM (Memory)
Hard Drive	120GB
CD RW or DVD RW Drive	RW drive is recommended as a backup device for your course work, should your computer ever fail, be damaged or stolen.
Networking Card	Allow access to Internet via a Internet Service Provider (ISP) eg: Bigpond,
USB Slots	Attach other devices such as printers, memory sticks, USB modems
Other Accessories	20” Flat Panel Monitor 1024 x 768 resolution or higher 128 Mb Graphics card Keyboard Mouse
Optional Accessories	Speakers, Bluetooth Module
Extended Warranty & Insurance	Recommend purchasing extended support warranty & accidental damage & theft Insurance

Minimum Laptop Specifications

Operating System	Windows 7 Home
Processor Speed	2.0GHz (Pentium M, Centrino or Celeron - Note: Pentium M & Centrino have a longer battery life)
RAM	4GB
Graphics Card	128 Mb
Hard Drive	120GB
CD RW or DVD RW Drive	RW drive is recommended as a backup device for your course work, should your computer ever fail, be damaged or stolen.
PCI 802.11/a/b/g Wireless Card	Provide UOW network access from within UOW campuses, find out more about Wireless at UOW.
Networking Card/Modem	Via an ISP, provides network access to UOW from off campus.
USB Slots	Attach other devices such as printers, memory sticks
Extended Warranty & Insurance	Recommend purchasing extended support warranty & accidental damage & theft Insurance.

Consider purchasing a service contract for technical support of your computer. An extended 2 year warranty is money well worth spending. With the added 2 year service contract, your computer will be covered for a total of 3 years.

Always buy the most you can afford and keep in mind the weight when considering a laptop, as you will be carrying the laptop, along with your textbooks.