Some programmes of study use special software, and this may have an impact on what kind of computer you need. You need to check this with the faculty you are going to study at.
Requirements regarding digital examinations
You must use your own laptop computer (PC or Mac). You must have administrator rights on the laptop you will use to complete the examination.
Digital examinations cannot be conducted using tablets, Chromebooks or hybrid PCs. Remember to also bring your charger (and mouse if necessary) if you have a written examination. Check that the camera on your computer is working, you will sometimes need to use it.
If you need special digital tools, you must apply for this as extra facilitation during exam.
Minimum laptop requirements for use in teaching and during examinations
Computer requirements:
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PC: Windows 10
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Mac: OS X 10.10 or later.
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NB: Some studies at USN are based on Windows software. Therefore, when purchasing a Mac, a Windows installation must be established on the machine using Parallels, Oracle Virtualbox, or similar systems that allow both the Windows operating system and the Mac operating system to be installed on the machine at the same time. You need to check this with the faculty you are going to study at.
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Processor (CPU) requirements
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Minimum i5 or ryzen 5
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USN recommends: 4 cores (e.g. Core i5, AMD FX-8350 or equivalent)
Memory (RAM) requirements
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8 GB – Preferably more
Storage requirements
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256 GB disk space (preferably SSD)
Other minimum requirements
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Integrated wireless network card
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Latest version of recommended browsers: Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox
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Integrated camera, must be able to deliver images in 640x480 resolution or better. You will sometimes be required to take pictures that will be included in answers. Using mobile phones during invigilated examinations is not permitted.
Laptop requirements for online studies
The minimum requirements mentioned earlier also apply to online studies, in addition to the following minimum requirements:
Web camera
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USN recommends: External USB camera with HD resolution.
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Integrated webcams are approved for some studies (minimum resolution 640x480), but we recommend external cameras for better quality and more flexible use.
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An external webcam is required for courses that have online oral examinations.
Headset
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Headsets that use USB for audio, with a microphone or combination desk microphone and speaker (important with echo cancellation).
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USN recommends: Think about quality when buying headsets.
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Keep in mind that this will be your tool as an online student for several years to come.
Internet connection
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It is not recommended to run a wireless network at web conferences. Wired network connections between PC/laptop and router are recommended.