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IT Purchasing Recommendations

Recommended Configurations
MSUM does not have any specific minimum requirements for student-owned computers at this time. It is generally recommend that you set a budget and then do some comparison shopping to get the best computer available for the price. Since sales frequently change pricing, it is hard to give an accurate price/model at any given time. The following are some basic recommendations.

Windows Computers
Either a Dual Core or Core 2 Duo
Minimum of 1 GB of memory (RAM), but 2 GB is better.
60-80 GB hard drive (160 GB for graphic or video work).
CD writer and DVD reader (DVD writer for graphic or video work).
The video card should have at least 128 MB dedicated memory - 256 is better. Wireless (802.11g or 802.11b)
A USB removable flash memory drive for transferring files
Consider adding Accidental Damage Warranty on laptops

(Note: These requirements have recently increased to meet the specifications of the new versions of Windows and Microsoft Office that are due out later this year.)

Macintosh Computers
Any currently available processor, Intel preferred
1 GB (1024 MB) memory (RAM)
Wireless (802.11g or 802.11b)
Video graphics with at least 128 MB video memory
80GB Hard Disk Drive
Combo Drive will write CDs, SuperDrive will write CDs and DVDs
A USB removable flash memory drive for transferring files
Consider adding Accidental Damage Warranty on laptops

MSUM Offers a discounted price for some Microsoft software. To see what software we have available you co go to E-Academy site and login with your dragon id and pin.

If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact support@mnstate.edu.

Personal Purchase Options

Although we don't endorse any computer vendor for personal purchases, we do pass on offers that believe will be advantageous to the campus community.

MSUM Bookstore
MSUM employees who wish to purchase a Macintosh computer for personal use may receive an educational discount through the MSUM Bookstore.

ByteSpeed
ByteSpeed, a local vendor, has created three basic configurations with upgrade options. They are a local company with local support. If you are planning to purchase a Windows laptop or desktop computer, you may want to check out their web site - Click on the PDF document link MSUM Student and Faculty Specials.