ITMA Technology Requirements

Future ITMA modules will be making use of technologies that require your computer to meet certain hardware and software requirements. While the requirements are not extensive, we want to share them with you so that you have an idea of what to expect and can take steps now to make sure you meet the requirements. Take some time to go through this site and make sure that you are up to date. We will be unable to assist you properly if you do not have at least the minimum requirements on your computer.

Hardware Requirements

For hardware, we currently recommend the following as minimum requirements:

  • At least a Pentium 4 or equivalent processor.

  • A recent version of the Windows or Mac operating system. This typically means Windows 2000 or XP Pro or Mac OS 10.3.

  • At least 128 megabytes of RAM.

  • A hard drive that holds at least 40 gigabytes.

  • A CD-RW Drive.

  • A sound card and speakers.

  • A reliable connection to the Internet, preferably through a cable modem, Ethernet, or DSL.

  • A reliable email account that you check frequently.
 

Please note that these are the minimum that we recommend. If possible, it would be better for you to have a more powerful system. If you are interested in suggestions for a beefier system, check out Virginia Tech's Computer Requirement web site. Their basic requirements may be more strict, and in addition to the basic requirements they provide minimum recommendations for students interested in purchasing a new system.

In addition to your main system, future modules may involve the use of additional hardware, such as scanners, digital cameras, video cameras, and Zip drives. Please keep this in mind.

Software Requirements

For software, we require the following:

  • The Microsoft Office suite. The Office software includes Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook (on the Mac it’s called Entourage). If you do not currently own this, it is available for Tech students at a substantial discount through the Student Software web sit. If you have an earlier version of Office, for the price we recommend that you upgrade to the newest version that Tech is selling.
  • You will eventually need web page creation software in order to create your portfolio. Dreamweaver is a popular tool and can be purchased from software distribution. If you desire something different check the Tools page of the ITMA Studio for some other options.

In future modules you may be required to purchase additional software. We will do our best to keep the costs low, but you should be prepared for this eventuality. In some cases this software will take the place of books, so your costs will be comparable to those you would incur in an on-campus class.

What Next?

The following pages spell out what you are expected to have installed on your computer as far as a browser and plug-ins...

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