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Online Course Requirements

Chances are, if you're reading this, you already have what you need. . .

but if you are not currently on the machine that you will be using for this class, you will need the following to be able to take this online course:

Computer Requirements

Hardware Requirements for IBM and IBM Compatibles:

  • 486 processor (Pentium 75 or better recommended)
  • 16 MB RAM (20 or more recommended)
  • Hard disk drive with minimum of 50 MB free (70 or higher free space recommended)
  • 14.4 baud modem (28.8 or higher recommended)
  • 256 color monitor
  • Windows operating system with Microsoft Office or equivalent (database software not required)

Hardware Requirements for Macintosh computers:

  • IIcx (Power PC Processor recommended)
  • 16 MB RAM (20 or more recommended)
  • System 7.1 (System 7.5.3  or higher recommended)
  • Hard Drive with 50 MB free space (70 MB or higher free space recommended)
  • 256 Color Monitor
  • 14.4 baud modem (28.8 or higher recommended)

Virus Protection

We suggest that you install a quality virus protection software program, especially if you are not accessing this course from a computer on a network protected by regularly updated virus-protection software. Virus protection software will protect your computer system (and ours) against potentially damaging computer viruses. Since new viruses appear on a frequent basis, we also suggest that you keep your virus protection software current by installing upgrades as they become available.

Check with your Internet service provider to find out what they recommend. A Web search on computer virus software will also yield a list of numerous available virus protection products.

Browser Requirements

Because class materials are presented over the World Wide Web, you will need a Web browser that supports graphics and frames (e.g., Netscape Navigator 3.0 or higher or Microsoft Internet Explorer 3.0 or higher).

Internet Service Provider

  • Must provide SLIP or PPP protocol
  • Must provide an Internet access suite (such as Trumpet Winsock, Telnet and e-mail)

You will also need to subscribe to what is called an Internet Service Provider (ISP). When the time comes to select a direct provider, you will have several choices to make. Consider the cost, time you will spend online, accessibility, speed, ease of set up and components of the provider's basic service. Make sure that your provider includes SLIP or PPP services as part of their Internet package; you will need this to be able to have full Internet access with graphics capabilities.

If you do not already have an Internet connection, the National Network of Libraries of Medicine offers information about Selecting an Internet Service Provider.