Laptop Requirements
Students enrolled in Harrisburg University of Science and Technology’s degree program are required to have a laptop computer in order to complete specific course requirements. If you already have a laptop and want to continue using it at Harrisburg University, please be aware of our minimum required specifications.
Although students with 6-credits or less are not required to purchase a laptop, they are strongly encouraged to do so.
Minimum HU Network Requirements
- Processor: Pentium 1.5 GHz
- RAM: 512 MB
- Hard Drive: 40 GB
- Wireless: 802.11 g
- CD-RW/DVD-ROM Combination
- Video Card: 16 MB Accelerated 3D
- Operating System: Microsoft Windows XP Professional
- Modem: If accessing internet using phone dial-in
- Network: 10/100 Ethernet Network Interface Card
- Current Web Browser
- Virus Protection with Current Definitions
You are free to purchase the laptop of your choice (as long it meets the minimum requirements above.) As a courtesy, Harrisburg University has also selected four laptops that meet our minimum network requirements. Please note, our listing of these machines does not serve as a product endorsement. You can purchase these machines through Harrisburg University's CDW-G page.
Support and Service
Service and support for your laptop is provided by your computer’s manufacturer. Please keep this in mind as you select a laptop.
Paying For Your Laptop
There are two options to pay for your laptop:
- Self-finance (credit card, debit card, check, 3rd party lease, etc.)
- Financial aid. Contact the Office of Financial Aid Services at FinancialAid@HarrisburgU.net or 717.901.5101.
Acceptable Use Policy
All HU students must comply with our Acceptable Use Policy. This policy explains rights and responsibilities as a member of the HU computing environment. A signed copy of the AUP will be kept on file during your tenure at HU.
Software
Students may purchase any HU required software at an educational price from HU’s registered software distributor, CDW-G.
Some HU required software will also be provided through the University’s Citrix web portal. To access this software, you must register your laptop with HU and be connected to the web.
Connecting to the Internet
Harrisburg University provides free wireless Internet access to students who have registered their laptops with the university. Instructions for connecting to the Internet and registering your computer are forthcoming on HU’s web site and will be discussed at length at orientation.
Questions
If you questions about HU’s laptop program or overall computing environment, please feel free to contact the IT Help Desk at either HelpDesk@HarrisburgU.net or 717-901-5177