05-06 Graduate Student Handbook.pdf - University of Kentucky

http://www.mc.uky.edu/nursing/StuResources/grads/handbook2005-06/comp_recommend....
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2/23/2011
Basic system requirements are identical for both sites.
Through a partnership with Dell the University can recommend pre-configured systems
matching the above specifications through the eBuy web site located at www.uky.edu/ebuy/
which will meet or exceed our minimum recommendations.
If you need further assistance please feel free to visit the eBuy Purchasing site at
www.uky.edu/ebuy/ or call the Information Technology Customer Service Center at (859)
257-1300. If you are thinking of purchasing a new computer, you may wish to check out the
options on eBuy.
What are the benefits of broadband?
• It’s fast: 10 to 80 times faster than a conventional dial-up connection from your
computer to the Internet, so you’ll receive the information you have requested quicker.
Broadband connections allow you to connect at speeds between 512 kbps and 4 mbps
compared to 56.6 kbps for standard modem connections.
• Always on: This means that you are permanently connected to the Internet and don't
need to dial up a connection every time you want to surf the Web, send e-mail, etc.
• Flat rate: Often there are no additional charges for the time you are online. You can use
it as much or as little as you like for a fixed fee, although some providers have a
download limit.
• Dedicated connection: This means your telephone line will not be busy if you are using
the Internet.
• Students can take advantage of faster access speeds, a greater range of downloadable
material and less time gathering online research material.
Broadband disadvantages
While faster, broadband connections are often times twice as costly as a dial-up connection.
"Always on" connections offer greater speed, but they also pose increased risk to your system.
Because your computer is always connected to the Internet, it is possible that someone will try
to access your computer. This can largely be overcome through proper security, but still
something that needs to be dealt with.
Do you need broadband?
If you spend a great deal of time at your computer, have the desire to download large
programs, or often get frustrated with slow-loading pages, you may want to consider
increasing your speed by 50-100 times with broadband.
When might you actually have a real need for it? If you want to watch live broadcasts, watch
videos, or play Internet games. Trying to do these on any dial-up just doesn't cut it. It might be
virtually impossible to do with a dial-up connection.
What's a PDA?
By definition, PDA stands for personal digital assistant. PDAs are pocket-sized electronic
organizers (If you've ever used a Franklin Planner or any similar kind of paper bound