About DL

VWCC Computer Requirements for Online Courses

The following is a list of the hardware and software to which you should have access to help you be successful as a Distance Learner. You can get by with a lower speed modem or slower processor, but it may prove frustrating. You must have a browser of at least version 4 to be able to view Blackboard. The latest browser version is recommended. If you have AOL you will need another browser. There is a shareware CD available at the library for checkout that has shareware software you can install on your computer.  Virginia Western Community College also has labs on campus that are open to student use for instructional purposes.

A schedule of lab availability can be located here.

Operating System: PC Compatible     Macintosh
Windows 95, 98,2000, or NT. MAC OS 8.6 or greater
Processor Speed PC    MAC
233 MHz            233 MHz
Memory (RAM) 1
32 Megabytes 32 Megabytes
HardDisk 1
1 Gig 1 Gig
Multimedia Capabilities: Yes Multimedia Capabilities: Yes
CD Drive 1
Have one Have one
Monitor (desktop) Minimum 1
15" 15" or IMAC
Modem 1
56 kb Internal or External (or v.90 compatible) 56 kb Internal or External (or v.90 compatible)
ISP's 1
If you have slowdowns or timeouts with your ISP now, you will have them when you are trying to do your
course work. You should have a minimum connection speed to your ISP of 33Kbps. There are several free ISP's (NetZero, Juno) that give decent service. 
Software 1
(Be sure to check your professor's
 course requirements)		 1
Microsoft Office Word Microsoft Office Word
95, 98, or 2000 98 or 2001
Browser 1
Netscape 4.7, I.E. 5.0 or Latest version
JavaScript enabled		 Netscape 4.7, I.E. 5.0 or Latest version
JavaScript enabled
To date, no AOL browser consistently works well with
Blackboard.		 1
E-mail Client 1
WebMail or Own (except for AOL). WebMail or Own (except for AOL)
Plug-Ins (check course requirements) 1
Acrobat Reader Acrobat Reader
QuickTime QuickTime
Flash Flash
Real Audio Real Audio
PowerPoint Player PowerPoint Player

The Browsers and Plug-Ins are available on a CD in the library that may be checked out and installed.