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Computer & PDA Requirements for Entering Students
Class of 2011AP & 2012


Component Minimum PDA Requirements
(FIRST YEAR - D1 - OPTIONAL)
Recommended devices include: Tungsten E2, Tungsten X (contains 128MB and WiFi), Treo 680. 700p OR 755P, 700W / WX & 750, (contains phone)

Palm OS device info - http://www.palm.com/us/products/

Windows Mobile device info
- http://www.microsoft.com/windowsmobile/devices/default.mspx

You may wait to purchase. More info will be available during your first class
Operating System Palm OS 5.4 or higher, Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0 or higher
Processor 200MHz  Intel or faster
Memory / Storage 32MB or greater
Resolution 320 x 320 or 320 x 480

Component Minimum Notebook Requirements
(only purchase a new one if it does not meet specs below)
Computers Strongly Recommended Dell – http://www.dell.com/
IBM – http://www.ibm.com/
Apple - http://www.apple.com/ - MacBook (must run Windows)
Operating System

Windows XP or Vista (you must upgrade from Windows 2000). You will need .NET Framework 2.0 enhanced Service pack 2 for XP or greater and the latest version of Internet Explorer.

Macintosh OS 10.5 or greater with the ability to run Windows.  You will need to boot into Windows for some programs in the 2nd year curriculum.
Processor 2.0 GHz minimum
(It is strongly recommended that you do NOT purchase a 64-bit processor for Windows)
Memory 512 MB of system RAM
CD/DVD / USB Drives DVD-ROM required. Strongly recommend DVD writable drive and USB drives for backup
Hard Disk Drive 40 GB required. You will need a minimum of 1GB free HDD space per year.
Screen Resolution 1024 x 768 resolution
Connectivity Ethernet & Wireless connectivity required - built in or on a PC card or USB drive.  Ethernet cable required.  For wireless connectivity, visit http://www.nyu.edu/its/wireless for the latest specifications.
Required Software Microsoft Office - http://www.microsoft.com/
QuickTime - http://www.apple.com/quicktime/ (free download)
Adobe Acrobat Reader - http://www.adobe.com/ (free download)
***Norton Antivirus Software - http://www.symantec.com/ and Lavasoft Adaware http://www.lavasoft.com/will be supplied***
Printer Optional but strongly recommended
Recommended accessories Extra battery, carrying case, ethernet & printer cable, CD/DVDs or flash drive media
Warranty 3-year warranty. The computer store is an authorized repair center for IBM and Dell.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need to purchase a computer or will it be supplied when I get my instruments?  Unless you already own a notebook computer and it meets the minimum requirements you will need to make this purchases prior to orientation. If your computer has all the minimum requirements and is three or more years old, seriously consider a new one. Over the last several years we have seen the least amount of computer problems / issues with those manufactured by Apple, IBM & Dell. If you purchase a Mac OS computer you will also need to purchase the Windows operating system for a couple of programs in your D2 year.

  • Do I need to purchase a PDA or will this be supplied when I get my instruments? The PDA is optional in D1 (first year) but will be needed during the D2 year. You will get more information about this during your first class and you can wait to purchase a PDA until then.

  • What software / programs should I know before starting school? You should know how to use your computer (Windows or Mac operating system) as well as Microsoft Word & PowerPoint. Familiarization with email and use of the Internet is recommended.

  • Will my computer purchase & VitalBook be covered by financial aid? You should know how to use your computer (Windows or Mac operating system) as well as Microsoft Word & PowerPoint. Familiarization with email and use of the Internet is recommended.

  • When will I need my computer? During orientation we will need to obtain information from your computer and configure it for use at NYUCD for both data and wireless connectivity. We will also make sure your anti-virus, anti-spyware, Quicktime and Adobe Acrobat software are installed and up to date, as well as assist you with security and firewall settings. You will need your computer by:

    • 2011AP = Tuesday, June 3, 2008
    • 2012 = Tuesday, Aug 19, 2008

  • Where should I purchase my computer & PDA? If you do not currently own a computer &/or PDA (or smart phone) you can purchase one at any retailer or on-line vendor of your choice. Please make sure you purchase from a major manufacturer, include a three year warranty on your computer and are aware of where / how to get repairs from the manufacturer you select.

    The NYU Computer Store has worked closely with representatives from Dell, IBM & Apple in attractively pricing these computers for students. The NYU Computer Store has all the computer equipment, software & accessories you require. In addition, NYU offers students a no-interest deferred payment program through the NYU Computer Store. Complete information can be found at the web site - http://www.bookstores.nyu.edu/computer.store/ or call (212) 998-4672, or e-mail if you have questions.

  • Can I get the VitalBook Now? The VitalBook will be distributed and installed during your first class ‘The Application of Technology in Health & Health Practice’.

  • Questions? Contact Dr. Elise Eisenberg, Director of Informatics –