Computer Specifications
What Do I Need to Go Online?

Why Do I Need Access to a Computer, Printer, and the Internet?
Online courses at Capital use dedicated, password-protected websites presented through the myCommNet portal and Blackboard Vista course management system. You need to have regular access to a recent-model computer which must have a high-speed (DSL, cable modem, etc.) internet connection. You'll also need a printer to get hardcopy of your course work.

Do I have to own my own computer?
No.  You may be able use a PC on campus, in a public Library, or at your workplace, in order to take an online course. Please note that using a computer outside your home may be restricted by internet traffic, usage policies, software availability, and sheer convenience. Having a home computer is one of the biggest advantages of Distance Learning, so we highly recommend this to DL students.

If you choose to use the College's computers, stop by the campus or call ahead to check the current Open Lab schedule and availability. Student PCs can be found in the computer labs (6th floor), the Library (5), the Internet Cafe (7), the Learning Center (4), and along the Atrium on floors 8 through 11.

You may be required to use certain software in order to complete DL class assignments. College computers are configured to run the most common DL software but not for those courses that require specialized software or hardware. The College, public Libraries, and most workplaces do not allow users to install their own software. This may be an overriding factor on whether or not to take a DL course, or whether or not to buy your own computer.

Can I buy a computer at the College?
No – but many computer merchants offer student discounts. Proof of registration may be required.

Can I buy computer software at the College?
Yes. Capital students are able to purchase discounted computer software at Follett, our on-campus bookstore (7th floor), or on-line at eFollett.

Do I need anything besides the computer and printer?
Some courses may require specific software or additional hardware such as a CD-ROM drive, microphone, or image scanner.  Other courses incorporate streaming video and audio, which has specific computer requirements.

If I decide to buy my own computer, what should I look for?
We recommend a fairly recent model with the following minimum characteristics:

Windows Operating System
• Pentium III 700 MHZ (minimum); Pentium IV 1.5GHz(recommended)
• Windows 98 or higher (XP or higher recommended)
• Please visit this page for information about Windows Vista.

Macintosh Operating System
• iMac series or higher; 500MHz processor (minimum)
• OS X, version 10.2 or higher
• Note: Some computer science courses may require Windows-only software. You may be able to use an emulator such as VirtualPC, but performance is not guaranteed.

Hardware and System Settings (Windows/Mac)
• 10 GB free hard drive space, 256 MB RAM
• 800x600 screen resolution (1024x768 recommended)
• CD-ROM drive
• Sound card and speakers or headphones (maybe a microphone)
• DSL or cable modem
• Printer
• Networking Port 2304 must be open for Chat/Whiteboard

Supported Web Browsers For Windows OS
• Internet Explorer 6 SP1; 6 SP2; 7
• AOL 9.0
• FireFox 1.0.X, 1.5.X, 2.X
• Mozilla 1.7.X

Supported Web Browsers For Mac OS
• Internet Explorer 5.1 (OS 10.1 Only)
• AOL OS X
• Mozilla 1.5, 1.7
• Firefox 1.0
• Safari 1.2, 1.3.1, & 2.0.1 or higher

Networking
• Networking Port 2304 must be open for Chat/Whiteboard

Other Computer Software (*free download available)
• Microsoft Office (2000 or newer)
• *Adobe Reader 7.0
• *RealOne Player
For a detailed list of downloads please go to http://www.ctdlc.org/help/Downloads.cfm?ProductID=26

Linux Operating System is NOT supported by Blackboard Vista.