Mobile Teaching and Learning

Mobile Computing Software and Hardware Purchase Recommendations

Section One: Recommended Minimum Specifications for Software

As you progress through your academic requirements at FHSU, you will benefit through the knowledge and use of different types of software applications. The following table specifies minimum requirements for software applications accepted at all academic levels.

Section Two: Recommended Software

Some software is available for purchase through the FHSU Computing and Telecommunication Center HelpDesk Software Center. The following URL will direct you to the Software Center Web site: http://www.fhsu.edu/ctc/helpdesk/software_center.shtml.

When selecting your software, please keep in mind that basic technical assistance at FHSU will be provided for systems and applications installed in English. Limited or no support may be available from FHSU or from off-campus computer repair businesses for systems and applications installed in other languages.

FHSU recommends the purchase of the following software packages that meet the minimum specifications shown in section one.

Section Three: Recommended Minimum Specifications for Computer Hardware

Laptop/Notebook Computers
Often called a notebook computer by many manufacturers, a laptop computer is a battery- or AC-powered personal computer generally smaller than a briefcase that can easily be transported and conveniently used in temporary spaces such as on airplanes, in libraries, temporary offices, and at meetings. A laptop typically weighs less than 5 pounds and is 3 inches or less in thickness.
A laptop can work effectively as a desktop computer through the use of a docking station—a hardware frame that supplies connections for peripheral input/output devices such as a printer or larger monitor.  A port replication allows you to connect a laptop to a number of peripherals through a single plug.

Laptops usually offer displays that use thin-screen technology. The thin film transistor or active matrix screen is brighter and views better at different angles than the STN or dual-scan screen. Laptop manufacturers use several different approaches for integrating a mouse into the keyboard that  include the touch pad, the trackball, and the pointing stick. A serial port also allows a regular mouse to be attached.  A PC Card is hardware that inserts into a card slot and allows the addition of devices to the computer.  Digital versatile disc (DVD) drives may be built-in or used as attachable devices.

Tablet PC
A tablet PC is a wireless personal computer that allows a user to take notes using natural handwriting with a stylus or digital pen on a touch screen. A tablet PC is similar in size and thickness to a yellow paper notepad and is intended to function as the primary personal computer as well as a note-taking device. Tablet PCs are available in two different types--a convertible model with an integrated keyboard and display that rotates 180 degrees and can be folded down over the keyboard or a slate style with a removable keyboard. The handwritten notes can be edited and revised.

Any purchase of a notebook or tablet computer requires some review of hardware specifications.  Here are key points for your consideration:

• The processor determines how quickly a notebook or tablet computer runs applications and performs on-screen tasks.
• A larger hard disk drive allows you to store more data on your computer.
• With more installed memory, your notebook or tablet computer can run more applications at once and perform better.  Because upgrading memory in a notebook or tablet computer can be tricky, purchase as much pre-installed memory as possible.  Any amount of memory less than 1 gigabyte will slow your work.
• The size of a notebook computer LCD screen is quoted as a diagonal measurement.  A larger screen size will provide higher maximum resolution and allow you to view more information at once.
• Additional expansion bays will allow the option to switch to new optical storage devices or other devices.
• CD-RW drives are a cost-effective and flexible removable-storage option, while DVD-ROM drives allow you to watch DVDs on your computer.

If you are planning to purchase a new laptop/notebook computer, the recommended minimum specifications for hardware are:

If your notebook does not meet these minimum specifications, you will encounter difficulties with the use of software listed under the minimum specifications or connection to the FHSU network.

The following Web sites provide advice about the purchase of laptop/notebook and tablet computers:

Apple Store

Section Four: Supplemental Mobile Computing Devices
In addition to laptop/notebook or tablet computers, students may choose to supplement their mobile computing efforts with devices such as PDAs, and SmartPhones. Please note that PDAs and SmartPhones are not considered as alternatives to notebook, laptop, or tablet computers.

Modern PDAs can handle wireless e-mail, instant messaging, digital photography, and music. Some companies combine PDA and cell phone functions into hybrid devices called SmartPhones.  If you decide to purchase a PDA or SmartPhone, please review the following recommendations for minimum specifications.  Here are key points for your consideration:

• Storage memory for PDAs varies from 8 megabytes to over 64 megabytes. If you plan to download music or large files to your PDA, purchase at least 16 megabytes of storage memory.
• Higher-resolution screens can display more information and produce crisper, cleaner images.
• The operating system performs a PDA's basic functions. Palm software is basic and quick while the Windows Mobile OS includes pocket versions of Microsoft Office applications.
• Color and high screen resolution are not necessary for most basic organizer functions. Bright color screens will make your PDA experience more pleasant. Higher-resolution screens can display more information and produce crisper, cleaner images.

Recommended Minimum Specifications for Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs)

If you are planning to purchase a new PDA, the recommended minimum specifications for hardware are: