Technical Requirements
Computer:
Any platform (Mac, PC, etc.) can be used, providing
it has sufficient RAM and an
operating system that
is capable of running a graphical Web browser such
as
Netscape (4.0 or higher), or Microsoft's Internet
Explorer (5.0 or higher).
Minimum system requirements
PCs: 486 CPU, 16 MB RAM, Windows 95 or better.
Mac: 68020 processor; system 7.0 or MacOS; 16MB of
RAM.
Modem:
A 56K modem (or better) is recommended. A modem as
slow as 14.4 will work, but
unless you are an amazingly
patient person, its slow speed may result in less-than-ideal
learning experiences. A 56K modem will help to create
the best learning environment
by reducing wait time
and the resultant frustration.
Internet Access:
You will need to have access to the Internet through
some means. If your employer
does not provide you
with Web access, you will need to have an account
with an
Internet Service Provider (ISP). The average
cost for unlimited access to the Internet
is $20.00
per month.
Important: Make certain the ISP you
choose has a dial-up number which is local
for you
so you will not incur any additional phone charges.
For useful information about finding the right service
provider and getting connected to the Internet, visit
these PBS Web pages: Understanding
& Using the Internet | Life
on the Internet
Information for International Students:
The
Directory and The
List have listings of Internet Access Providers
worldwide.
Browser:
We recommend the latest version of Netscape Navigator
or Microsoft's Internet Explorer.
You can get the
latest version of Navigator from Netscape or Internet Explorer from Microsoft.
E-Mail:
You will also need an E-Mail application. Any application
that allows you to attach
files is sufficient. You
can probably use the e-mail program provided by your
ISP.
Should you have the need, Eudora is an e-mail application developed by Qualcomm
and
can be downloaded free of charge from their Web site.