Laptop Requirement & Recommendations
Policy
MSU Law requires each student to own a laptop/notebook computer. Financial assistance is available to help cover the cost of the laptop. See the FAQ section below for more information.
Purchasing
Computer technology changes daily. As a result, we recommend that you get price quotes from several different vendors or stores. The MSU computer store carries several different manufacturers, including Dell, Gateway, HP, Compaq, IBM, and Toshiba. Students who choose to purchase through the Computer Store will be given the option of paying for the computer at the time of order or having their student account billed for Financial Aid. You should take into account the following when purchasing your laptop:
- Use the recommended specifications as a guide.
- Look for reviews regarding service and reliability.
- If you are not going to buy your laptop for a few months, remember that laptop prices change almost daily. By the time you are actually ready to purchase your laptop, prices will have probably dropped and technology will have improved.
- When you order the laptop find out the estimated delivery time.
- Find out where you can get the laptop serviced if it needs repairs. (Do you need to mail it to the vendor or can you get it repaired locally?)
- Apple’s MacBook with the Intel chip can now run Examsoft software and Trial Director software IF setup using Bootcamp and Windows XP or Vista.
Recommended Laptop Specifications
If you are buying a new laptop use the recommended specifications as a guide. If you already own a laptop, make sure it meets the minimum specifications.
| Recommended: | Minimum: |
| Processor at 2.0 GHz or faster* | Processor at 1.2GHz or faster |
| 2 GB RAM or more | 1 GB RAM |
| 80 GB Hard drive or larger | 40 GB Hard drive or larger |
| Microsoft Windows Vista Home Basic Edition | Windows XP Pro |
| 128 MB Video RAM | at least 64 MB of video RAM** |
| 10/100 wired network card | 10/100 wired network card |
| 802.11g wireless | Optional if 10/100 available |
| >Warranty - 3 years, parts, on-site labor, and accidental damage coverage if available | |
| Carrying case |
*The speeds above are based on Intel chip, AMD processors would work too.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What version of Windows do I need?
A: Any version of Windows XP or Vista will work.
Q: Can I use one of the new Apple MacBook laptops that run on the Intel chip?
A: Yes. You will need to fully install Windows XP or Vista by running Apple BootCamp. Emulation or virtualization software such as Crossover, Parallels and Virtual PC will not work if you plan to run Examsoft software on the MacBook.
Q: What other software will I need?
A: You will need some form of word processing software, we recommend Microsoft Word but any software, such as Corel WordPerfect or OpenOffice (free), that works with Word files would be fine. Most students find the full version of Adobe Acrobat Professional helpful to have. Some students use note taking software, such as Microsoft OneNote, or flow chart software, such as Microsoft Visio. The MSU Computer Store has software available to students at a significant discount.
Q: What wireless network card will work with the Law College’s network?
A: Any 802.11G or 802.11B card will work. We recommend 802.11G. An 802.11A card will not work with our network. Most newer laptops have the wireless card built-in, older laptops may need an upgrade removable card, both will work fine with the network.
Q: Is financial assistance available to help cover the cost of the laptop?
A: Yes, see http://www.law.msu.edu/finaid/comp_reqs.html for more information.