Hardware and Software Recommendations
HARDWARE
If you are buying a new computer, we suggest that you get one with at least 4 GB of RAM, an intel core processor, and a one-terabyte hard-disk drive. All laptops must have built-in WiFi (802.11n) capability and comply with WPA2 authentication standards.
OPERATING SYSTEM
For PCs, we recommend Microsoft Windows 7 Professional. For Apple, we recommend Mac OS 10.8.4 Mountain Lion.
SOFTWARE
We recommend Microsoft Office 2010 for Windows and Microsoft Office 2011 for Apple.
WEB BROWSERS
The Law Center’s web-based applications are supported on the following browsers: Internet Explorer 8+, Firefox 10+, Chrome 17+, or Safari 5+.
WEIGHT
Please take into consideration your potential laptop's weight. You will have a lot to carry around (textbooks are heavy), so you want the lightest laptop possible.
For a thin, light, full-powered laptop, we recommend the Ultrabook. They are less than an inch thick; offer at least five hours of battery life; weigh less than 3 pounds (almost half of the average laptop weight of 5 to 6 pounds); and have a full keyboard. Best of all, many Ultrabooks are competitively priced at under $1,000.00.
COMPUTER WARRANTIES
The Law Center does not provide hardware or software support. So you should purchase the most comprehensive warranty possible. That way, if you damage your laptop, someone will actually help you fix it and/or recover your data. For those who are budget-conscious, we suggest visiting Best Buy. Best Buy is conveniently located on Metro (Red, Yellow, and Blue lines) and offers great customer service and computer warranties through Geek Squad.
EXAMS
If you want to take your exams on a computer, you will need to use your own laptop, which must be able to connect to the Internet. It is also a good idea to have a second (backup) laptop battery, since not all of the exam rooms have electrical outlets. Please be advised that the Law Center does not provide loaner laptops or power cords for student use.
