Computer

Regular Desktop computers are supported. Laptops are supported on a case by case basis. If you choose to use a Laptop and run into issues, you may be required to receive Technical Support from a local Technician, or be required to purchase a Desktop Computer.

Note: Unless your computer has a "Boot Menu" your computer's BIOS must be set to boot from DVD before your Hard Drive. (Please verify with your PC vendor or technician).

Not Permitted: Apple/Mac Computers

Processor

1.8 GHz minimum.

DVD-ROM Drive

Internal DVD-ROM+RW (DVD with Read &Write abilities – dual layer not necessary). Note: External USB DVD burners not supported.

RAM Memory

Minimum of 1536MB (1.5GB) installed memory. (2GB is recommended for optimal working speeds).

Monitor

17 inch supporting 1024 x 768 minimum.
19 inch or larger recommended
Not Permitted: LCD/Plasma TV and Touch Screen Monitors.

Video Card

32 MB minimum / 128 MB recommended

Note: Onboard video cards not recommended, or supported. You may be required to upgrade your video card if issues occur. Verify compatible upgrade with your PC technician.

Sound System

Sound card and speakers required.

Keyboard

PS/2 keyboards recommended and USB types are supported. If problems occur you may be required to purchase a PS/2. Wireless keyboards are not supported.

Mouse

Router and Network Systems

Recommended Routers: Linksys, Netgear, and D-Link.

Mandatory: The router must support VPN pass-through a hardwired Internet cable (CAT-5) connection to the router via a RJ-45 jack.

Mandatory: If you are using a Wireless Router, you must encrypt the Wireless connection by using a WEP or WPA key. Please see local PC Technician or router manufacturer for assistance.

Not Permitted: Any USB or Wireless connection/network card. Wireless connection cards must be disabled in the bios. Please see local PC technician for assistance.

Note: You may be required to purchase an alternate router or network card to be supported.

USB Port

4 USB Ports may be required for Camera, Biometric Scanner, Mouse, and Sound Card. _Note: For expansion, a USB hub may be required.

Bio-Metric Scanner

Some clients will require a USB biometric scanner. Please check with the job posting on ContractXchange to see if it is required.

The USB biometric scanner, if required, is purchased at the time of class registration.

Digital Web Camera

Certain clients will require a web camera for security monitoring purposes.
The only supported Web Cam is the Logitech Quickcam Communications STX.

Telephone with Headset

Not Permitted: Cordless/wireless phones, cordless/wireless headsets, USB phones, virtual phones, and mobile cell phones.

Internet Speed

Mandatory: High Speed Cable or DSL internet service

Download speed: 2.5 Mbps minimum (3.0 Mbps is strongly recommended for optimal working conditions)

Upload speed: 400 kbps minimum

Quality of Service: 80%

Not Permitted: Satellite Dish and Wireless Antenna internet service providers are not permitted, due to the unstable nature of the connection.

Operating System

Windows XP or VISTA required.  

Browser

Internet Explorer: Minimum IE 6.0 (or newer) or IE compatible browsers only. You may be instructed by our Tech Support Department to install use a different browser to work for your contract.

Anti-Virus,
Firewall and
Pop-up Blocker

Computer Security Features: You are solely responsible for configuring and maintaining these features; and may be referred to your local PC Technician for assistance.