What is the suggested computer configuration for online coursework at CPCC?

This information provides suggested guidelines concerning the type of personal computer setup that should allow a positive learning experience when accessing CPCC's Virtual Campus. There is no need to concern yourself with this if your existing computer allows you to access what you need for online coursework. Please note that your personal choices of hardware, software, and use will impact the performance of your computer, and that some courses may have specific requirements which exceed what is listed here. These guidelines will be modified as is necessary to keep up with changing technology.

Minimum System

• PC Processor: 1.5 GHz Pentium or higher
• Mac Processor:  1.0 GHz G4 or higher
• Windows Operating System: Windows 2000 with SP4; Windows XP with SP2
• Apple Operating System: OS X 10 or later
• System Memory (RAM): 256MB Windows 2000, 512MB Windows XP, or higher
• Display: 800x600 or higher, 16 bit color or higher
• Video Memory: 32MB of video RAM or higher
• Internet access: dial-up 56k or higher (broadband recommended - DSL/Cable/LAN)
• Sound: 16-bit sound card or higher
• Optical Drive: 40x or higher CD-ROM
• Browser: Microsoft Internet Explorer 6+, Firefox 1.5+

Optimal System

• PC Processor: 2.4 GHz Pentium or higher, or any Intel Core Duo, or any AMD Dual Core
• Mac Processor: Any G5 or Intel Core Duo
• Windows Operating System: Windows 2000 with SP4; Windows XP with SP2
• Apple OS: OS X 10 or later
• System Memory (RAM): 512MB Windows 2000, 1GB Windows XP, 2GB Windows Vista, or higher
• Display: 1024x768 or higher, 32 bit color
• Video Memory: 64MB of video RAM or higher
• Internet access: broadband (DSL/Cable/LAN)
• Sound: 16-bit sound card or higher
• Optical Drive: 8x or higher DVD/CD-ROM
• Browser: Microsoft Internet Explorer E 6+, Firefox 2+

For All Systems

These are additional equipment or accessories that you will need to be successful in your online educational experience.

• Keyboard
• Mouse and/or Trackball
• Speakers and/or Headset
• CPCC email account for college and course-related communications
• CPCC SNAP (Login) account

Common Optional Equipment

These are additional equipment of accessories that you may need depending upon your preferences and course needs.

• Microphone
• Printer
• Flash drive for file storage and transfer

Software

• Plug-ins and viewers for media and files commonly found in courses can be located at http://www1.cpcc.edu/distance/support/plugins.
• Some courses may require specific software. Please review the course syllabus for detailed requirements. Email the instructor or contact the program if you have questions. 

General

Due to the wide variety of hardware and software configurations, ITS is unable to provide support for personally owned computing equipment.  We provide the following suggestions to minimize potential problems while using online services:

• Keep your operating system current and up-to-date by visiting to the Microsoft Update  and Apple Downloads pages. This will also help keep your system more secure.
• Install and maintain antivirus software.  Such software can scan, identify and remove harmful viruses from your computer.
• Install and maintain spyware and malware removal programs such as Ad-Aware and Spybot.  Such software will detect and remove unwanted advertisements, pop-ups and hidden processes.  This can improve your computer’s performance and security.