Hardware - what is standard?

Your computer hardware will need to meet a recommended specification level so that you’ll be able to use the full functionality of Windows Vista and maximum performance in the University's environment.

We recommend a minimum requirement of 2Gb of memory. We also recommend that areas continue to replace their desktop and notebook computers on a 3-yearly cycle.  Any standard computers acquired through the University's preferred reseller will exceed the minimum hardware specification for use in the University.

Recommended Specification (SOE Hardware)

The following computing equipment meets the minimum required specification for Windows Vista:

• Standard desktops and laptops acquired through the University's preferred reseller within the previous 3 years that have 2Gb memory; or
• Standard desktops and laptops acquired through the University's preferred reseller within the previous 2.5 years that have a mimimum of 512MB memory.  In this case ITS will fund the upgrade of the computer's memory to 2Gb.

Minimum Specification (SOE Hardware)

1.6 Ghz Pentium 4 2Gb RAM           30Gb HDD    10Mbps wired LAN

Non-standard hardware

During the Desktop Excellence rollout the minimum specification for non-standard hardware will be discussed with each area. This negotiation recognises the many varying hardware configurations available and the lack of University testing that these computers will have undergone. The project team also acknowledges that there are legitimate business requirements to run hardware other than the standard, especially in research areas.  In these cases the upgrading of these computers will also be planned on a case-by-case basis with the research area involved.

Following the completion of each area's Desktop Excellence rollout, new non-standard hardware will only be supported via a pre-approved business case.  This acknowledges the significantly increase support overhead of non-standard equipment. 

If you are an intensive desktop user for GIS applications, graphical manipulation applications, multimedia production or high processing activities, it is advised that you consider vendor recommendations for operating your product under Windows Vista.

If you have any questions on the specifications of your hardware, please email the Desktop Excellence team at desktop.excellence@adelaide.edu.au.