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Computer Hardware


Find answers to your computer hardware related questions and questions about hardware at OWU.

Contents

Computer Recommendations
Computer Repair
Where do I get info on purchasing a new computer?
Dead Pixels
Cleaning Your Monitor Screen
Hardware Stolen?
How to Tell How Old Your PC Is
UPS Battery Replacements
Related Links
External Links


Computer Recommendations

Processor:
Intel Core 2 Duo or equivalent
Processor Speed:
2 GHz or better
Memory:
2 GB or more of system RAM
Storage:
160 GB or more of hard drive space
Media:
CD-RW (Read/Write capability) -- DVD player is a plus
Wired Networking:
RJ45 (Ethernet) on a 10/100 network interface card*
Wired Networking (for laptops):
Wireless B, G, or N and 802.1x compatible*
Except for the networking specifications, these are recommendations for best results. You will still be able to connect to our network with an older or slower computer as long as you meet one of these* networking requirements.

Other considerations: Keep in mind that most software packages have minimum system requirements. See our Microsoft Office and Windows Vista pages for examples. It is optional for students to have their own printer--see the Printing at OWU page. Also, when purchasing a computer always ask about technical support. What does the manufacturer or the retailer offer? Is there a warranty? Is there a toll-free number to call for support. What hours is the support available? If there is a hardware problem, does the system have to be shipped to a repair facility? Note that Ohio Wesleyan University does not provide hardware or operating system support for student-owned computers.

Computer Repair

Click here for a list of nearby computer businesses who can help you with your personal computer. OWU Information Services repairs only University-owned machines.

Where do I get info on purchasing a new computer?

Lenovo:
Apple:

Lenovo's "On-Campus" Warranty
The 4 year on-site warranty is offered to our students with an option of an additional year. This warranty is good anywhere there is a Lenovo presence. If the student takes the laptop home and needs service it will be provided at his home. This is world wide so if one of our foreign students needs it when they return home it will be available to them as well, providing there is a Lenovo presence in their country. Students should contact Lenovo Tech Support (800-426-7378) to arrange service. OWU Information Services does not provide Lenovo warranty service to students.

Got a dead pixel on your flat screen monitor?

You can try these methods before considering a replacement.

Cleaning Your Monitor Screen

If you'd like to clean your computer screen and you're looking for a safe cleaning solution that won't harm your monitor, the best solution for cleaning LCD screens is a 50/50 mix of distilled water and white vinegar, or 72% isopropyl alcohol.

Hardware Stolen?

Report to police: Serial Number & MAC addresses (the physical addresses of all network cards, Ethernet or WIFI)

How to tell how old your PC is?

There should be a tag on the back of the machine (desktop units) that gives a warranty date or manufacture date. If it is a manufacture date it will be warranted 5 years from the date. If it is a warranty date it will be that date that it runs out of warranty.

UPS Battery Replacements (faculty & staff only)

UPS (Uninterruptable Power Supply) batteries must be ordered through Purchasing. Once you have received the replacement, call the Help Desk to schedule installation. Purchasing will know what battery to order from the make and model number, found on the front label of the UPS. The maximum size is 400 watts.


Related Links

Software
Gaming
Printing
Repair Shops


External Links

Dead Pixel Repair
OWU Lenovo Store
OWU Apple Store



Still need help?

For assistance please contact the help desk.

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