Laptop Requirement
The specifications below are intended to help guide you in the purchase of a new portable computer, they are the minimum requirements that we recommend. You are not required to purchase a laptop that meets or exceeds these specifications, but doing so will help to ensure your portable computer remains useful throughout your 3-year law school career.
The law school fully supports both the Windows platform and the Mac. For the Windows platform we recommend the Dell Latitude with Complete Care (usually does not include theft, check your home insurance). The Law School recommends the MacBook from Apple with 3 Yr Applecare. Part-time students may want to consider a 4 year warranty.
If you are planning on living off campus and plan on using dialup internet service, please order a modem with your laptop.
| Windows | Mac | Comments |
| 1.5 GHz | 1.83Ghz intelcore duo | Processor: A faster processor increases performance. |
| 512 MB | 512 MB | Memory (RAM): More RAM increases performance. |
| 40.0 GB | 40.0 GB | Hard Drive: Larger hard drive if you will be saving media files, including MP3s. |
| 10/100 Ethernet | 10/100 Ethernet | Ethernet: Used for wired networking. |
| Wireless | Wireless | Wireless networking is available throughout the law school and large areas of the campus. |
| Microsoft Windows XP | Mac OSX | Operating System |
| DVD/CD-RW | DVD/CD-RW | The law school utilizes DVD technology for some courses. You'll also be able to use the RW (Read/Write) capability of the CD-ROM drive to backup your files. |
| Word Processing Application, Open Office | Open Office, MS Office 2004 | The Law School provides Word Perfect (Windows version) for free. Purchasing of Microsoft Office is highly recommended. |
| AntiVirus | AntiVirus | The university provides Trend Micro AntiVirus software at no cost to all faculty, staff, and students. It can be downloaded at http://software.rutgers.edu |
| Warranty (various manufacturers) | Warranty (Apple Care) | A 3-year warranty will provide coverage throughout your law school career. |
| Cable and lock | Cable and lock | Never leave your computer unattended in a public area, even when it is secured. |
See http://findtech.rutgers.edu/ to look for possible discounts on your computer purchase.