Am I required to bring a computer?
While students are not required to bring a particular computer type or brand, they are highly advised to bring a laptop with them to campus. Desktop computer access is provided in the Library, in Bingham Hall, and the Duqués Center. Students can also borrow laptops for two hour use in the Library. 

Does Mitchell College sell computers to students?
Mitchell College has teamed up with Dell to offer discounted laptop bundles for Mitchell College students who purchase directly from Dell. Students may also shop the full Dell or Apple catalog online and receive a basic educational discount.

If I bring my own computer, what are the recommended system requirements?
For a complete list of recommended system requirements for incoming students this year, please refer to the Computer Checklist for 2009-2010. You may also contact LIS staff for additional information by emailing askLIS@mitchell.edu.

Should I bring a laptop or a desktop?
Both laptops and desktops are used on the Mitchell College campus. Laptops are recommended for most students because they are portable and allow for wireless use in classrooms and around campus. Laptops have become increasingly useful for students who appreciate the ability to work in a variety of environments. They are also easy to setup, take up less space in a residence hall room, are less expensive to ship, and are easy to transport (i.e. when repairs are needed or during college breaks when students leave campus).

Some students prefer desktops because they are less fragile and tend to be less expensive. They also often have greater potential for hardware and peripherals upgrades, such as a larger monitors, extensive software packages, assistive technologies accessories, and memory.

Which is better, Apple or PC?
Mitchell College is primarily a PC-based environment; however, both Apple and PC (Dell, HP, IBM, etc.) computers are in use on the Mitchell College network. There are currently over 100 PCs and 25 Apple computers available for student use. Students in the graphic design program often choose Apple computers because most of their computer-based classes are held in the Graphic Design (Apple) lab. Additional considerations include the use of specialized or assistive software; if using any specialized software it is important to confirm compatibility with the computer and Operating System you are thinking about using.

Does my residence hall have internet access?
All rooms are equipped with one network port per student. All you have to do is plug in and you're ready to go. The only requirement for connecting to the ResNet is the use of up-to-date anti-virus software (such as Symantec or McAfee).

Can I use the computer I already own?
If you already own a computer that you would like to bring with you, please refer to the minimum required system specifications below. If your computer meets these minimum requirements, you should be able to connect to the campus network. For more information, please contact the LIS staff at AskLIS@mitchell.edu.

Minimum Required System Specifications for the 2009-2010 Academic Year:
Operating System: Microsoft Windows XP/Mac OS X
Processor Speed: 2 GHz (Computers used for graphic design or multimedia will need a faster processor)
Ethernet Card (NIC) 10/100, RJ-45 port
Memory: 1 Gb RAM
Hard Drive: 80 Gb or more
Media Storage: 4X CD-ROM Drive
Ethernet Cable: Category-5 Patch Cable, RJ-45
Software: Microsoft Office 2007 Professional (includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook), and anti-virus software such as Symantec or McAfee

What software will I need?
The two requirements for all students are Microsoft Office (preferably 2007 or 2008 for Mac) and a reputable and up-to-date anti-virus application. If you are in the habit of using additional assistive or specialized software, it is recommended that you continue using that as well.

In addition, you may need software for specific classes (check your syllabi for more information). These programs are often included with your textbook purchases, can be purchased at a local office supply store, or can be purchased separately at the campus bookstore.

Important: Microsoft Works, and WordPerfect are not recommended. To facilitate sharing of documents with fellow students, faculty, and staff, Office 2007 or Office 2008 for Mac are highly recommended.

Does Mitchell College offer software discounts?
Through its Microsoft Campus Agreement, Mitchell College is able to offer Microsoft Office 2007, Microsoft Office 2008 for Mac, and Windows XP to its students for only $20 each. Students must sign a Microsoft Agreement and present a current Mitchell College photo ID in order to receive this discount.

Discounts on additional software are available to all students with valid student photo ID by visiting http://www.campustech.com.

Will I need a printer?
Printers are not required. However, many students enjoy the convenience of having a printer for their personal use. Printing is available for students in the Bingham Hall computer labs and in the Library.

Will I need a modem?
Modems are not needed to connect to the College network from on-campus. You will need an Ethernet card, also known as a Network Interface Card (NIC) and a Category-5 Patch cable (RJ 45 cable), to connect to the network from on-campus. Wireless cards are necessary to access the Mitchell wireless network (full details available within the Computer Checklist for 2009-2010).

Will I need insurance coverage?
Theft levels are no greater at Mitchell than other colleges. However, students may want to take precautions with valuable equipment. Computer locks are recommended for all laptops and desktops. Property insurance packages are often offered through home-owners' insurance plans and are also available through National Student Insurance. Visit http://www.nssinc.com for more information.