Departmental Recommended Computer Configurations

The computer specifications you see listed below come directly from IT's standard Apple iMac, HP Desktop HP Workstation, and  HP laptop purchase forms. These configurations are sufficient to run software used in the Standard Campus Load.

These specifications are the "minimum" configurations for new computers to be purchased by the university. Non-Apple or HP computers to be purchased for university use should meet these specifications at a minimum.

If you need a computer with more horsepower for doing more advanced tasks like video editing or AutoCAD, you may wish to contact IT Purchasing to investigate more powerful computers to fit your needs.

Desktop PC

  • Core 2 Duo Processor 2.66 GHz Core 2 Duo Processor
  • 2 GB Ram
  • 160 GB Hard Drive
  • DVD-RW/CD-RW drive
  • Sound Card with internal speakers
  • 10/100 MB Ethernet card
  • Keyboard & Mouse
  • 17 Inch Flat Panel Monitor
  • 4 Year Warranty
  • Windows XP Service Pack 2
  • Office 2003

PC Laptop

Laptops are based the users need.  We have different models of laptops for various uses.  Please contact IT Purchasing

Apple iMac

  • 20 Inch iMac
  • 2.4 Intel processor
  • 2 GB Ram
  • 320 GB hard Drive
  • 128 MB Video Card
  • Double layer SuperDrive DVDRW
  • keyboard & Mouse
  • Built in Airport Extreme and Bluetooth 2.0
  • AppleCare 3 Year warranty

Minimum Computer Configuration for UWSP Support

Older campus computers must meet the minimum hardware configuration in order for IT to perform maintenance, upgrades and service to those machines. This standard is set to allow the campus computing environment to stay up to date and to allow a high level of service with a relatively low level of resources. This standard is updated yearly or bi-yearly depending on the rate of technology acceleration and the funds available for upgrades on campus. If assistance is needed in replacing out of date technology, departments should consult with their College Support Team member or IT Purchasing.

Current Minimum Hardware Configuration, Spring 2007

The minimum configuration for a PC that we will support is a Pentium III 1 GHz with 512 MB of ram. However, anyone with a computer slower than a Pentium 4, 1.4 GHz machine with 512 MB ram should consider budgeting for a replacement by the end of 2008.

The minimum configuration for a Macintosh that we will support is a G4 or newer processor with 512 MB of ram. Anyone with a computer slower than a G4 should consider budgeting for a replacement by the end of 2007.