Recommended Computer Specifications
If you decide to bring a computer to Duke instead of purchasing a system through the Technology Advantage Program (TAP), we strongly recommend that your system meet the following specifications. These recommendations should meet the demands of typical student use.
| Feature | Minimum Recommended | Preferred (if applicable) | Rationale for Recommendation |
| Processor | Intel Core Duo processor (2.00 GHz) (Windows/Mac) |
Intel Core Duo processor (2.4 GHz) (Windows/Mac) |
The Windows Vista operating system and applications written for it will require advanced processors to be used effectively. |
| Memory | 2 GB | 3 GB |
Memory demands for Windows Vista will require at least 1 gigabyte (GB) of memory. |
| Hard disk | 120 GB | 250 GB | An increasing number of Duke courses use multimedia content, which greatly increases storage needs on personal computers. |
| Optical drive | CD-RW/DVD Recordable (burns/reads CDs and DVDs) | CD-RW/DVD Recordable (burns/reads CDs and DVDs) | Recordable DVDs are more capable for backing up and transporting today’s larger computer files. |
| Networking | Built-in LAN 10/100 (Ethernet) for all systems; wireless for laptops (Windows: 802.11b/g/n; Mac: Airport Extreme) | Built-in LAN Gigabit (Ethernet) for all systems; wireless for laptops (Windows: 802.11n; Mac: Airport Extreme) | Wireless (802.11 N) is available in all residence halls. Please do not bring any personal routers to campus as this will interfere with available wireless. |
| Video RAM | 128 MB | 256 MB | Windows Vista will require advanced graphics capabilities at a minimum of 128 MB. |
| Operating system | Vista Home Premium (Windows) or Mac OS 10.5 or higher |
Vista Ultimate (Windows) or Mac OS 10.5 or higher |
Windows Vista offers advanced networking features. |
| Support & protection | Extended warranty plan, including accidental damage coverage, for expected life of machine and a laptop bag to protect your computer. | * See note below. |
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| Software | Microsoft Office |
Repair Costs of a Laptop Over Time
The TAP program offers extended coverage for students, including software support. The TAP warranty also covers the display, a feature not available with most laptop warranties. The cost to repair a laptop increases greatly over time due to the limited availability of parts from manufacturers. Units with limited warranties or warranties shorter than three years that also do not include the screen often can cost more in the long run due to the high cost of repair if the machine malfunctions.
Duke Computer Repair Average Costs for the Most Commonly Replaced Components
| Part | Average Cost | Labor |
| LCD screen | $525 - $750 | $90/hour |
| Laptop motherboard | $300 - $750 | $90/hour |
| Hard drive | $89 - $150 | $90/hour |
| Keyboard | $59 | $90/hour |
As shown by the cost of replacement parts and labor, purchasing a computer through the TAP program can pay for itself many times over. In fact, if a computer requires a new LCD screen or a motherboard, the price for that part alone often can be higher than the price of an entire bargain laptop.