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Florida Gulf Coast University

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Computing Services

Parents

 
 

Here are a few things parents might need to know about FGCU. 

Does FGCU offer any discount on computers or software?

  • Dell has machines already configured to meet FGCU's minimum rrquirements at a discounted price.

Dell 

  • FGCU offers software titles at a fraction of the cost to your son or daughter from JourneyEd.com. Visit the link for more information

Jem 


Does FGCU's Computing Services provide any support for privately owned machines?

  • Support for personally owned computers is limited to assistance with configuring the computer to access FGCU's network, assisting connecting to university resources, basic troubleshooting, and for students living on campus anti-virus assistance. Please Contact Computing Services at (239) 590-1188 for questions.


Where can I get help?

  • If you need assistance with your computer, printer or peripheral device, you may wish to consult the manufacturer. You might also check to see if your computer is still under its manufactures warranty. If your computer does not fall within a warranty, we suggest you contact a local repair center that has the appropriate experience or certification to make repairs.

 

What kind of computer does my son or daughter need?  

  • Many students find laptop computers to be very helpful during their studies at FGCU. Laptops offer convenient access to FGCU’s network (wireless or wired), e-mail, and Internet resources. If you are planning to purchase a new laptop, FGCU’s Computing Services has worked with Dell to offer computers (laptop, or desktop) at a discounted price. To purchase a personal computer from Dell at special FGCU discounted pricing, please click here.

What are FGCU's minimum computer specifications?

CU’s 2011 Student Computer Recommendations

Operating System

  • Windows: Vista or Windows 7
  • Mac: 10.X or newer

Processor (CPU)

Dual-core processor or better

Monitor and video card

LCD 1024x768 resolution or higher, with 256 MB video RAM or more

Hard drive(HD)

160 gigabytes or larger

Memory (RAM)

2 gigabytes or more 3 gigabytes prefered

Printer

Desktop color printer

Removable storage

DVD recordable drive
USB flash drive (requires USB port)
External Hard drive which meets or exceeds your hard drive capacity (for backups)

Software

  • Required: FGCU antivirus software. Available via free download for students who live in housing.
  • Recommended: Microsft Office 2007.

More software tips

Networking

At least one of the following is required - check with where you are going to live to see what type of connection is available:

  • Ethernet card: for on-campus, residence hall, and broadband access
  • Wireless card: 802.11a/g/n recommended for wireless access on campus

Audio

Sound card with speakers and/or headphones.

Other things to consider:
  • Purchase a surge protector or uninterruptible power supply.
  • Bring copies of your operating system, office suite, and other software application installation media (including product keys) in case a reformat or reinstall becomes necessary.
  • Make sure you have a printer as well as ethernet cable.