Laptop vs. Desktop
Marquette University does not require that law students purchase a laptop, however, it is recommended. The law school and the law library offer wireless internet access throughout the entire building. Laptops can be more expensive, but if you will be commuting, spending time on campus, or simply want the advantage of portability, laptops can be worth the additional money. However, if you plan to complete assignments at home and need to save money, a desktop is always a good way to go. The law library has computer labs which make it easyto utilize library resources without a laptop.
Purchasing a Computer
Whether you purchase a desktop or a laptop computer, it is important to balance quality and performance with cost. The law library IT staff make the following recommendations for system configurations.
| Laptop | Recommended | Minimum |
|---|
| Processor | 2.5 Ghz+ Intel Core 2 Duo | 1.8 Ghz+ Intel Core 2 Duo |
| Memory | 4.0 GB RAM + | 2.0 GB RAM |
| Hard Drive | 250+ GB | 160GB |
| Wireless Card | 802.11g | 802.11b |
| Optical Drives | DVD-RW | DVD-R |
| Operating System | Windows Vista | Windows XP Home |
| Software | Microsoft Office 2007 | Microsoft Office 2003 |
| Screen Size | 14"+ Active Matrix | 12.1" |
| Warranty | 3 year (parts and labor) | 1 year (parts and labor) |
| Desktop | Recommended | Minimum |
|---|
| Processor | 2.0Ghz + Core 2 Duo | 2.0Ghz Intel Pentium 4 |
| Memory | 4.0 GB RAM + | 2.0 GB RAM |
| Hard Drive | 500 GB + | 200GB |
| Optical Drives | DVD-RW | DVD-RW |
| Operating System | Windows Vista | Windows XP Home |
| Software | Microsoft Office 2007 | Microsoft Office 2003 |
| Screen Size | 19"+ LCD | 15" |
| Warranty | 3 year (parts and labor) | 1 year (parts and labor) |
Peripherals:
USB drive 2 GB for portable storage and document backup
Printer
Optional:
Second battery for laptop
Carrying case for laptop
Vendor Recommendations
Marquette University uses several computer vendors to purchase their equipment. The University has also negotiated student discounts with these vendors. Law students are not required to purchase from these companies, they are only intended as suggestions.
Hewlett-Packard (HP) Store for Marquette Students
Toll-free: 1-800-696-4662
Please reference Marquette source code "XQ237" when ordering to receive a discount.
CDWG Computers Store for Marquette Students
Contact: Lance Busdeker at lancbus@cdwg.com or (866) 339-4896
The Apple Store for Education
Toll-free: 1-800-780-5009
Note: Students are responsible for maintaining their personal computers. Marquette University and the Media and Technology Group do not provide repair or diagnostic services for student owned computers. Students should use their computer vendor for diagnosis and repair. The Media and Technology Group is able to assist students with connecting to or using University resources.
