MSB Technology Center

 

MSBHelp@georgetown.edu
(202) 687-4721
(202) 687-7022 (Fax)

MSB Computer Requirements

The nuts and bolts of computer configurations is a fearsome area where one hesitates to tread because there are so many options and multiple good answers to any one problem. This document will detail some of the hardware decisions you must make when purchasing a computer

If you just want the quick and dirty on all this is MSB has an arrangement with Computerware of Vienna Virginia to provide laptops to students.  We have worked hard on the configuration and price this "Standard Computer"...go buy one.

If you want to talk to me regarding any of these suggestions, or anything about computing at MSB, my phone number is 202-687-4721, or you can e-mail me at john.carpenter@msb.edu.

Must you have a computer?

This is the requirement:

MBA students are required to have a personal portable laptop computer that runs Windows Vista Business, or Windows 7 Professional. Windows XP is no longer fully supported.

MSB does not have a formal undergraduate computer hardware requirement. However, for practical purposes all students should bring a new technology laptop that runs Windows Vista Business, or Windows 7 Professional. Windows XP is no longer fully supported .

The computer you bring does not matter as much as the requirement to run Windows. We can support many types of hardware. Apple Mac computers can be configured to run Windows (there is a cost) and thus meet the MSB requirement. 

 

Here are the details

Operating System

At MSB we support machines running the English version of Windows Vista Business or Windows 7 Professional exclusively. We strongly recommend Windows 7. Windows XP is no longer fully supported.

Apple computers run various versions of Mac OS right out of the box.  While many MSB programs will run under Mac OS, several critical ones do not.  Thus, if you elect to bring a Mac to MSB it is likely at some point that you will have to load Windows on your Mac. That means you will have to purchase Windows and possibly MS Office for Windows and install those programs on your Mac.  MSBTC will assist with the installation but purchasing the software is a user requirement.

Windows

Windows Vista Business will still be supported but MSBTC recommends all new student computer purchases run Windows 7 64-bit.  We do not support computers running the Apple OS or Linux.

The MSB Technology Center will support the following editions of Windows 7:

§  Professional

§  Enterprise

§  Ultimate

The MSB Technology Center will not be able to fully support the following editions of Windows 7:

§  Starter

§  Home Basic

§  Home Premium

"Home" versions of Windows 7are the versions that most computer makers use to define whether a computer is "Windows 7Ready".  By design Home and Home Premium have limited networking functionality. This limited functionality may prevent full connectivity to the MSB Network and access to certain applications.

Apple OS

If you purchase a Mac MSBTC recommends you configure it with Lion.

64-bit vs. 32 bit

There are significant internal differences between 32 and 64 bit operating systems. They are significant enough that not all hardware can even run a 64-bit version of Windows or Mac OS. MSB can support either versions. 32-bit Windows 7 is more than adequate for and will be for years. Purchasing the 32-bit version also ensures compatibility with everything. 64-bit operating systems are the future however. As new programs are written to take advantage of 64-bit operating systems things will speed up dramatically.

Recommended Computer

Lenovo Business Laptops

MSB has developed a series of Lenovo business computers which can be purchased from a local vendor.  The "Standard Computer" can be found here.  It has a few extra features beyond the minimum and will cost a bit more than the absolute minimum required.  MSBTC views these additional features as worthwhile.

The T Series computers do make an attempt to reduce size and weight. They are quite a bit lighter than the R, but still have the 15 inch and 14.1 inch screen options. These are the computers that most corporations purchase, including MSB for faculty and staff. Once again, there are no significant performance tradeoffs between the R and T/ W. The T and W are just more compact.

The X Series . They have made a concerted effort to enhance portability. Principle impacts are performance and screen size. The X 200 is the only "Tablet" computer offered by Lenovo. X Series computers are adequate for any standard MSB or business application, like anything using MS Office, but they are not good for large-scale database functions or sophisticated computer games.  There are slower than comparably priced T/R/W series laptops.  The screen is only 12.1 inches in the X 200. In my view this is too small for long-term use (like typing a paper). X Series owners may find the want to augment their system with an external monitor (which will plug right in). Another issue is the internal CD ROM has been eliminated in the X200 to save weight. An external CD ROM must be purchased separately.

The W Series are larger laptop computers. They are by far the most powerful and have the best graphics. (up to 17 inch) One W model actually has 2 built-in screens. They are quite heavy. If you are not planning on bringing your computer to class a lot however, this is a powerful laptop computer.

The Consumer Series laptops

Lenovo has developed a number of consumer series of laptops.  Many of these have compelling capabilities in speed and graphics.  The model numbers (IdeaPad, SL and others) change more frequently than the business versions (T, R, X, W) but they are good computer.  The only real difference is durability.  Business grad computers are made to withstand more abuse, and they generally contain more standardized internal components.  The warranty may also not be as comprehensive.  While this is good for a business, it does not much matter to an individual.  Thus, if you take care of your consumer grade laptop, it is a good choice.

Note, many of the Consumer computers will come with the “Home” version of Windows.  Windows Home is not a good choice for MSB.  You will run into connections issues on the network.

Macs

MSBTC has recently extended support to Apple Mac computers.  2012 is the first year this is being done and there are some growing pains.  However, Mac users can expect robust support for their Mac at MSBTC. 

There are some important programs that you may need at MSB that do not have Mac versions.  To use your Mac for all MSB classes it will have to be configured to run Windows in addition to Mac OS.  The MSBTC recommended configuration for students with Macs is to partition their laptop hard drive using "Bootcamp", Apple' s free disk management software, and install a copy of Windows 7 Pro on it's own hard drive partition.  At a minimum this means users will have to purchase Windows 7 Pro.  Many users will also want to purchase a copy of Microsoft Office 2010 for Windows.  MSBTC can assist Mac users wishing to install Windows.

Recommended Vendor

The vendor providing sales and service is Computerware of Vienna, Virginia.  We believe Computerware will give you an excellent value. There are advantages to purchasing the MSB Standard Computer Configuration.  For the most part, these involve support after the sale.  Briefly, these advantages are:

MSBTC will be able to assist in troubleshooting problems. MSBTC has a lot of experience helping fix problems with the Standard Computer.

Vendor assistance is easy to get.  Computerware will have representatives in the MSB Tech Center several times over the week to talk directly to individuals having problems with a Standard Computer.  No appointment required.

You will not be out of a computer if yours breaks.  Computerware will loan a replacement computer to an individual who has purchased the Standard Computer and is experiencing problems that require the computer to go back to Computerware for repair.

If you decide to check out  Computerware's web site, remember this:

- There are just a few computers on the web site. That does not mean these are the only possibilities. Many things can be customized and still retain all your support options.

- If you do not see what you want CALL COMPUTERWARE. 703-821-8200

- Don't like the price?? CALL COMPUTERWARE 703-821-8200. The price may have changed. Also, Lenovo has said that they will meet or beat any Dell price for identical equipment. Most other brands will be a little cheaper. There is a reason for that.

- Don't want a Lenovo?  Computerware can sell you just about any brand other than Dell or Mac.  If you do not buy the Lenovo some support will go away.

Computerware is a good outfit, but the purchase arrangements do not involve MSB. Other than a recommendation the MSB Tech Center has no role in the business arrangement between Computerware and individuals purchasing computers from Computerware. We don't get any sort of a kickback for a computer you might purchase from them, so, we do not get involved in arbitrating disputes. If you have a problem, let us know and we will help you communicate it to Computerware. That is about all we can do, however.

Minimum Specs

Here are the minimum laptop specs.  We provide them to you so you may set a lower technology limit on your laptop purchase.  The MSB recommended computer is all this and more.  The recommended Lenovo laptops are significantly faster than these minimum specs.  In reality, most new laptop computers these days are faster and better equipped than our minimum. 

Minimum Specs include at least:

§  Intel i5 2.0 GHz

§  Windows 7 Professional 64 bit

§  3 GB RAM 32 bit OS, 4 GB RAM 64 bit OS

§  PCI Video with 128 MB RAM. Support for DirectX 9 graphics with a WDDM driver

§  128 GB of hard drive, 5600 RPM.

§  Color Display (12.1" or better)

§  128 MB of video RAM

§  Built in wired (100 MB) and wireless (802.11G) networking

§  Built in modem and fax

§  Documentation

§  1 Year parts and labor

§  Est. cost, $500 to $1200

Detailed Specifications Discussion

This is a discussion of the configurations by device.  It tells you more about the specs and why we recommend what we do.

Processor:

Minimum of a 2.0 GHz "i5".  New processors are much faster than this.  They will be the Intel Core Duo T Series or equivalent. It is the same for Mac and PC

Operating System:

Windows 7 Professional   See the Windows discussion.

Hard Drive:

Not less than 128 Gig at 5600 RPM. Less expensive HDDs operate at 5600 RPM or even 4800 RPM.  MSBTC recommends a 160 GB or larger HDD operating at 7200 RPM.

Floppy Drive

A 3.5" 1.44 MB floppy drive is optional. The 3.5" floppy is not quite outdated yet but it will be soon.  Do not even consider ZIP drives or LS 120s.  The new standard for portable storage is the Flash Drive.

DVD/CD ROM:

We recommend you get a drive that can both read and write DVD's and read and write CD ROMs.  Don't confuse DVD Read/Write drives with CD ROM Read/Write drives.  DVD read and write capabilities are the future.

Memory:

At least 4 GB of RAM (with 64 bit Operating System). One memory slot in your computer should be open to allow you to easily add RAM in the future. Don't get more than 3 GB of RAM with standard 32 bit Windows unless they offer it for free (they might for technical reasons). 32 bit operating systems cannot use more than 3 GB of RAM. Only the 64-bit versions can use more than 3 GB. If you get a 64-bit OS get 4 GB of RAM

Ports:

Make sure there are ports on the computer for the monitor (VGA port), keyboard/mouse (USB Port), printer (USB), and at least one more USB version 2.0 ports. If these ports are not already there, something is wrong.  Be careful of Macs.  They do not come with a huge selection of output ports and frequently require external adaptors.

Screen:

12.1 inch. If you plan to look at your screen for more than an hour or so at a time, get a 14.1" screen or an external monitor. The screen on your laptop will have some special considerations:

§  It cannot be upgraded

§  It is not normally included on the manufacturer's warranty.

§  Make sure there is a monitor port (also called a VGA or DVI Port) on the back of the laptop. You can plug in a real monitor when you get home and use that instead of the laptop screen.

Video:

The video card inside your computer is what runs the monitor. Minimum 128 MB RAM.  Windows 7 REQUIRES 128 MB RAM but if you want to run the advanced functions of Windows 7, get 256 MB of video RAM

External Monitor: (Not Required)

External flat panel monitor, wide screen.  An external flat panel 17" monitor will help make the long hours editing a paper go smoother.  Personally, I cannot live without a 19" or larger flat panel.

Fax Modem:

You still need a 56K modem built into your laptop.  It should also have FAX functionality.

Ethernet (LAN) adaptor Wired and Wireless:

You will need Ethernet 100baseT or 1000baseT (1 GB) wired LAN adaptor.  Normally this is referred to as an Ethernet or network card. Most laptops now have built-in 10/100 or Gigabit (1000MB) Ethernet.

Wireless is built into almost all new laptop computers. Any wireless should be 802.11G compatible.  Most will also be compatible with the "N" standards.

Power supply:

You may go overseas. Make sure your power supply will accept 120 to 240 volts and 50 - 60 Hz.  Almost all do. If you have a docking station you may want an extra power supply so it can stay plugged in permanently at home.

Warranty:

Minimum at least one-year parts and labor. It is a pretty good idea to upgrade to 2-3 years if you can.  If something is going to break on a computer, it usually does so in the first three months. However, if you do not know a lot about fixing computers, or if you just don't have the time, 2-3 year warranties are a good deal.

IMPORTANT.  Most warranties do not cover the screen.

IMPORTANT. Most warranties do not cover the most common problem...accidental damage. If you are going to be carrying your computer around get the accidental damage coverage. It may be included with your family household insurance.

 

Documentation and Support:

The second "Most Overlooked item". Many companies cut corners here. I am willing to spend the extra $50 to $100 to get a machine with complete, well written documentation and product support. There is nothing quite as frustrating as trying to troubleshoot a problem or get hold of phone support when the manual is 10 pages thick and there is no 1-800 support number. 

Many times documentation is on the computer C: Drive.  This is OK, but if you cannot start your computer, you cannot see the instructions.

You need documentation of all major systems we have discussed above.

Vendors:

The MSB standard laptop computer is a Lenovo. There is a reason for this. Lenovo makes the best laptops. No question that they are the technology leaders. Computerware offers a deal on the normally more expensive Lenovo computers, both desktop and laptop. Dell laptops are also good and durable. Hewlett Packard (HP), Toshiba. Apple and a lot of others share the next position. These computers are also good laptops. They offer high "knob-to-dollar ratio". We have seen them all however and our recommendation is go with the MSB standard Lenovo.

 

Applications Software

MSB uses MS Office 2010 Professional. All new purchases and upgrades should be Office 2010 32 or 64 bit, whichever is appropriate for your version of Windows.  32-bit MS Office 2010 works fine on 64-bit WIndows 7.  MS Office Professional includes Excel, Word, Power Point, Access, and Outlook Mail.  MSB uses all the MS Office programs except Outlook.

The Mac version of MS Office is not 100% compatible with the Windows version.  Thus, while Mac MS Office will work in most circumstances, do not be surprised if you find it will not run some specialized programs.  This is one reason we recommend you have a Windows partition on your Mac.

The right place for them to purchase it is here:  http://uis.georgetown.edu/hoyacomputing/students.sware.personalpurchase.htm .

Students can also find purchases for Microsoft Office through the following vendors:

Microsoft Web Site - Occasionally has good deals
Computerware --$179.
Main Campus through UIS Software Database (CDW-G) - $372.06
Bookstore -- $200+

Note: Prices are subject to change. Please check at the respective sources.

Extra Equipment

Flash Drive

Also called a memory stick, memory key...  This is a USB memory device that connects directly to your computer.  It has replaced portable storage devices like floppy drives.  MSBTC recommends each student have at least one with at least 4 GB capacity. The flash drive is just for moving files around. It is a very poor long-term data backup device.

External Hard Drive

An external USB hard drive of 500 GB or more will allow you to regularly back up your computer.  If you get no other extra equipment this is what you should consider. Backups are really important.

Printer

If you get a printer get a cheap one, with color.  A good HP inkjet should cost about $150 or less.  Because students can do high resolution color and black and white laser printing on MSB printers many personal printers in dorm rooms are unused.

Docking Station

It is just an ease-of-use item and should be dropped quickly if you are saving money.  All laptop computers manufactured in the last few years already have easy-to-use connections for monitors, keyboards, mice and all sorts of USB peripherals built in. The USB port on your laptop computer can accommodate a multi-port repeater that you can use to connect 5-10 devices, more than enough.  Connecting all these external items each time you get home is more difficult than just dropping your laptop into a docking station, but not by much.

Scanner

An inexpensive scanner will prove useful on occasion.  We have them in the Tech Center but it is nice to have your own.

Laptop Insurance and Security Equipment

A security lock is cheap insurance and will deter 99% of possible thefts, particularly in the student dorms...if it is used. Most laptop theft is already covered in homeowners insurance as far as replacement.  Laptops "disappear" occasionally around here, but it is much more common to have them misplaced or forgotten, or put out of commission by damage that is not covered in the warranty.  Prior to getting insurance, I would extend the warranty.  It is probably a better use of the same dollars.  Then get a lock-down cable and be careful where you leave your laptop. Then get accidental damage insurance.

Miscellaneous Info

Disclaimer

There is a disclaimer that goes along with this computer advice below. The author is me, John Carpenter, Chief Technology Officer at the McDonough School of Business. There are probably a few of my personal prejudices built into this advice. After all, the "P" in "PC" stands for "Personal".

Personal Preferences

Your computer is designed to cater to desires which differ from one person to the next. It is likely that some of your preferences are different from mine. Because of that, remember the golden rule of purchasing a computer...GET SOMETHING YOU LIKE!!!. Don't let the tech specs get control of you. A large part of computer purchasing should be based on hormones.  If you get an "IBM compatible" computer, the differences between brands are pretty minimal. It is a tragedy to spend $$$ on a computer because you think from a logical point of view that it "is what you should buy", when what you really wanted to do was get the "cute" laptop or the machine that is really good at computer games.

My advice is to make sure in the end that you feel good about the decision. Also, after you have purchased a computer, don't spend time second guessing yourself or doing additional price searches. The price you paid for your recent purchase WILL go down. That does not mean you got a bad deal or that you got taken. It is just the way things are. Buy your computer and enjoy it. Don't beat yourself up about the deal.

Desktop Computers

Whether you purchase a laptop or a desktop computer is dependent on your personal requirements. There are no real processing penalties (other than games), just price and portability. You will pay more for a laptop with the same power.  Desktop computers are generally more powerful for the dollar, and they generally have better video displays.  However, laptops have the huge advantage of being portable.  At MSB laptop computers are recommended because MSB is moving to a more computer-oriented classroom environment. This means lots of things but the bottom line is that all students will need a laptop.

Last Advice: If you get a deal, bring it in to the MSB Tech Center, we will let you know what we think about it.

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