A document entitled "ITS Microcomputer Recommendations" is available online at

This document lists considerations for network access along with minimum specifications for PC's, Macintosh systems and printers. If you have an application with specialized software, intense system demands, etc. it may be prudent to speak to an ITS staff person for specific considerations. Contact names and phone numbers are included in the ITS Microcomputer Recommendations document.

At minimum, a CDROM is needed. A CD-RW to write data on CDs might also be useful for backing up data.

A zip drive is used for those with higher capacity data storage needs. A high density diskette can hold approximately 1.4 Megabytes of data, whereas a zip disk has a minimum capacity of 100 Megabytes. (Zips also come in 250MB or 750MB sizes.) If your files are over 1.4 Megabytes in size, you may want to consider purchasing a zip drive and zip disks.

Yes, it is highly recommended. When systems are first purchased, they typically come with a one-year warranty. At the time of purchase, there is also the option of purchasing a three-year hardware maintenance agreement. Although this is an added cost, it ensures that your systems will be serviced if anything goes wrong. Costs for repairs without a maintenance agreement may be prohibitive (typically, $60 and up per hour). Depending on your preference, specify on-site or carry-in service.

First of all, you will need to specify an operating system (OS). The specified OS software will be preinstalled on your systems when they are delivered. Application software may also be purchased, based on your needs.

ITS maintains a list of supported operating system and application software online at

If you choose to purchase software that is not on the supported software list, ITS may not be able to provide assistance to you.

For information on obtaining supported connectivity software and Internet clients, see question 7 below.

ITS has site-licensed software available for purchase and use by the University of Hawai'i community. Site-licensed software is typically less expensive. However, you will need to install the software on your own. The list of site-licensed software is online at

To access the Internet, you may need additional hardware and software. Purchase an Ethernet card for departmental systems on campus or for use at home with a cable modem, for example, Road Runner. If you will be accessing the Internet via modem at home, purchase a 56K v.90 modem.

There is information on private Internet Service Providers (ISP) available at:

Although ITS has a modem pool for use by the University community on a space-available basis, a private Internet Service Provider is recommended. CDROM's are available at the ITS Help Desk with connectivity software to the UH modem pool, supported Internet browsers and other Internet clients. Connectivity software is also available online and can be downloaded from

Faculty, staff, and students in the University of Hawai'i system may download software from this site.

Price lists for the UH-sponsored contracts are located at

Be advised that although you may find lower prices for comparable systems, ITS staff may not be familiar with non-contract systems and may not be able to provide support. Non-contract systems will also have a lower priority in the area of service and support. ITS recommends using the UH contract for all desktop systems purchases.