Computer Requirements for COM

Policy

All incoming students to the UT College of Medicine are required to have a laptop computer that is capable of access to the Internet. The College of Medicine provides students with access to campus-based computer labs, but due to the limited number of workstations available and use by other colleges, it is necessary for students to have their own computers.

Students who plan to use their current laptop computers must ensure the equipment meets the minimum requirements outlined below to allow for adequate connectivity to UT systems. Newly-purchased laptop computers should meet the minimum recommendations. Computers must have programs capable of network connection to the Internet and of performing basic functions in word processing, spreadsheet calculations, multimedia (imaging, video, and sound) and e-mail. Students are also advised to purchase a printer. An Audience Response device (clicker) is required for classroom use. Costs of a computer, Internet connection, printer, and software may be included in financial aid requests. In addition, we recommend students consider purchasing a tablet computer (iPad, Android, etc.).

Network Availability

UTHSC provides on-campus access to the Internet to all faculty, staff, and students. All UTHSC buildings have wireless access but limited plug-in access for Ethernet.

Windows and Mac Laptop Requirements

• Intel Core i5 processor equivalent or newer
• Windows 8 or Windows 10
• Mac OS Computers
• 4GB of RAM or greater
• 13 inch or larger screen [recommended] with 1024 x 768 or greater resolution
• 250 GB hard drive or larger
• Built-in Ethernet (students will also need a standard 6 ft. long Ethernet cable)
• Built in Wi-Fi Card
• Antivirus Software Required

Audience Response Card RF (LCD) Clicker

The College of Medicine requires that all students use Turning Technologies compatible Response Cards. The COM uses the RF (LCD) card. No other cards are supported.

Recommendations

Software

• Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Web browser - Internet Explorer and/or Firefox, Safari, or Chrome
• Adobe Acrobat Reader
• QuickTime, RealPlayer, Windows Media Player

Internet Service Provider

• High speed access

Printer

• High quality ink-jet or laser printer
• The College of Medicine will make syllabi, handouts, and PowerPoint presentations available in digital form for easy download to laptops and tablets. Students who wish to have paper copies can print in the GEB or HSL computer labs. COM students are allotted 6000 free pages of print over the course of the four-year curriculum.

Tablet computer

• Some students find iPads or similar devices as useful substitutes for the texts and notes required during study. The COM uses several online texts in the curriculum that are provided free through the library.