Undergraduate Catalog

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System Requirements and Technology Resources

TESU recommends a Windows computer with at least a 250 GB hard drive (HDD) or solid state hard drive (SSD - a solid state drive is more stable and reliable), at least 8 GB RAM, and a 2.0-3.0 GHz Intel or AMD processor. (You can use a MAC, but keep in mind some computer science and other courses may require software programs that only work with Windows OS)

  • The operating system should be Windows 11 or macOS 11.x Big Sur OR later.
  • TESU courses are fully compatible with Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, and Google Chrome. These are the recommended browsers. If you’re using a Mac…you’ll want to download Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. Safari does work, but it can be problematic at times.
  • An anti-virus program that is regularly updated is essential.
  • A microphone and speakers, as well as a web camera, are necessary for participating in any live video chats, pre-recorded video lectures and video assignments.
  • A high-speed internet connection is also required for the best study setting.

These requirements ensure that your computer can handle the demands of online learning, including accessing course materials, participating in video lectures, and completing assignments.

To test your internet speed, here are some of the best sites you can use:

  • Ookla Speed Test: This is one of the most popular and reliable internet speed test sites. It provides detailed information about your download and upload speeds, as well as your ping.
  • Fast.com: Powered by Netflix, this site is great for streamers as it focuses on download speed, which is crucial for video services.
  • M-Lab Internet Speed Test: Known for its ease of use, this site provides a simple and straightforward way to test your internet speed.
  • Speedof.me: This site is known for its consistency and provides a detailed analysis of your internet speed.
  • Testmy.net: This site is browser-based and offers a comprehensive test of your internet speed.

These sites will help you determine if your internet connection is performing as expected and can provide insights into any potential issues.

How to check your RAM (memory) and Hard Drive Capacity (and other system specs)

To check your system specs on a Windows computer…simply right-click on the Windows logo button on your task bar at the bottom of your screen and click System.

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Once you’re on the System>About Screen, you can see things like Processor, RAM (memory), and Windows version.

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To check your Hard Drive (HDD) and its capacity, you'll want to click on or search for File Explorer. It will either be the small file folder icon in your system tray or simply use the search box and type in File Explorer. 

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From there, click on “This PC”

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This is where you will see your Hard Drive (HDD or SSD), the Drive Letter associated with it (generally C:) and how much space is used/free.

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