YSU Tech Desk

Campus Computer Standards & Recommendations

Below are recommended system configurations provided and updated by the YSU Tech Desk. Configuration depends on intended use, as well as expected lifespan of the computer. For example, if a student needs to engage in basic word processing, connect to the World Wide Web, and check e-mail, a minimum configuration system would be adequate. However, to run current-generation software, any PC with a Pentium 4 processor or Macintosh with a PowerPC G4/G5 processor with minimum of 512 MB of RAM is recommended. If the incoming student is planning on purchasing a new machine to be used during his/her college career, a high-end machine is recommended.

System Type Minimum Configuration Preferred Configuration High-End Configuration

Windows
Windows System Pentium III @ 850 MHz
256 MB of RAM
40+ GB Hard Drive
CD-R/RW Drive
10/100 Ethernet Pentium 4 @ 2.4 GHz
512 MB of RAM
60+ GB Hard Drive
CD-RW/DVD-ROM Drive
10/100 Ethernet Pentium 4 @ 3.2 GHz
1 GB of RAM
120+ GB Hard Drive
CD-RW/DVD+/-R-RW Drive
10/100 Ethernet

Mac
Mac System
PowerPC G3 @ 800 MHz
256 MB of RAM
CD-R/RW Drive
40+ GB Hard Drive
10/100 Ethernet PowerPC G4 @ 1 GHz
512 MB of RAM
CD-RW/DVR-ROM Drive
60+ GB Hard Drive
10/100 Ethernet Any PowerPC G5 Processor
1 GB of RAM
CD-RW/DVD+/-R-RW Drive
120+ GB Hard Drive
10/100 Ethernet

Professors and Staff
When making a computer purchase using university funds, please take into consideration that Electronic Maintenance Services is certified to repair and service IBM, Dell, and Gateway machines.