Laptop Minimum Requirements: Most current laptop models will meet basic minimum hardware requirements with little or no configuration upgrades. If you own a laptop that is currently running XP, and is not Vista ready, you should be able to use it for the foreseeable future. You are not required to have Vista; however, most new systems will come with Vista, so that is why the minimum requirements list as such.

Operating System: XP Professional or Vista Business Edition
Microsoft Office 2007 (Pro/Ultimate recommended)
Processor: Dual-Core (or comparable) Processor 1.6 GHz or better
RAM: 1 GB (2 GB recommended)
Hard Drive: 80 GB or more
Optical Drive: DVD/CD+/-R/RW Recorder
Networking: integrated 802.11 b/g/n compatible wireless and 10/100 ethernet port

Suggested Additions or Upgrades

Windows Vista Ultimate - includes Media Center
USB Flash Drive 1 GB or more
Color Printer - laser or inkjet

The HSOP IT Group has negotiated with Sony, Lenovo, Dell, and in negotiations with others, to provide our students with the latest technology at a considerable discount. Each program is a bit different, and several makes and models of laptops will be available. Please review the information below and on the vendor websites to make the best purchase decision.

Some considerations to take into account:

Make and Model of the hardware (Sony, Dell, Gateway, Lenovo, and many others)
Price (from about $500 and up)
Features (consider processor speed (minimum Dual-Core (or compatible) 1.6 GHz), screen size, weight, memory/RAM (1GB minimum - recommend 2GB), hard drive size (80GB minimum), etc.)
Networking (integrated wired and wireless preferred - 802.11b/g compatible)
Pre-Installed Software & Applications (we strongly recommend Windows Vista Business Edition or Ultimate and MS
Office 2007 Professional or Ultimate - includes Access) NOTE: Academic versions are okay - check with the AU Bookstore for availability and pricing
AU provides Sophos antivirus software to all students free of charge, so you do not need to purchase an antivirus application
AU provides GroupWise email and scheduling application
HSOP provides several Rx applications via direct install or network
Warranty (1 year is typically standard, with multi-year at additional cost)
Repair and Damage Options (fast turnaround, local service)
Peripherals (such as PDAs, printers, memory sticks, CD-RW, DVD, etc.)
Financing Availability and Terms (multi-year options available)

Wireless access (802.11b/g/n) is available throughout HSOP. However, you will continue to need a standard 10/100 ethernet port - either integrated or via PCMCIA card.  Wireless printing is not available with Vista OS at this time.

You may purchase at any time once the vendor site is linked. You are not required to purchase from our list of vendors, but you should meet minimum specifications. You will need to bring or ship your laptop to us prior to the start of classes, or prior to orientation if you are an entering HSOP student. Some vendors will ship direct to us at no additional charge. If you chose this option, the shipping address is:

Harrison School of Pharmacy
c/o Office of Information Technology
2316 Walker Bldg
362 W. Thach Ave.
Auburn, AL 36849-5501
Attn: Barry McConatha

Make sure your name is on the shipping label so we can deliver the unit to you upon your arrival.

If you have an existing laptop that meets or exceeds minimum specifications, or can be upgraded to meet specs, you do not need to purchase an additional laptop. Apple Macintosh laptops are acceptable, but not all applications are compatible with Macs. You should purchase Windows to run on the Mac via dual boot or onboard software.  You may not be able to complete some assignments with Macs. There is limited support for Mac on campus.

HSOP policy requires that you have a laptop available for your use.
Contact the Office of Academic and Student Affairs for more information.
You are not required to purchase selected models or from the vendors on this page.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your laptop purchase, contact the vendor for specific hardware and financing information, or HSOP OIT for general information on issues relating to software, networking requirements, setup prior to classes, etc. You may contact Barry McConatha at 334-844-8362 or Dennis Duty at 334-844-8308.

Remember, this is a purchase, not a lease. This will be your computer. All hardware and software are your responsibility. Warranty service and repair must be handled through the vendor. HSOP OIT will be available to diagnose problems and handle networking issues.