Computer Systems
Spring 2010 Specifications
(see also Purchase Information)


It is highly recommended that all cadets have a desktop or laptop computer and printer. Wireless capability exists in several academic buildings across campus. Prior to purchasing a new computer, Academy Prep cadets should contact the Academy Prep advisor for information regarding leasing or purchasing a computer

Before you buy a computer, please read this page carefully.

  1. Machines may be shipped to NMMI before the opening of school. Machines will be stored in shipping and arrangements for distribution will be made after matriculation.
  2. Bring with you to campus all the manuals, floppy disks, and CDs you received with your computer. Keep them with you (don't let your parents take them back home). This will help you if you encounter any computing problems.
  3. Bring a copy of your purchase receipt in case you need to have warranty repair performed.

All computers to be used on the NMMI network should include, monitor, printer, Windows operating system, Ethernet card and cable, 3-year on-site warranty (parts and labor) and telephone/internet support for hardware problems.

1. Operating System:*


NMMI requires any of the Windows XP operating systems (Home, Pro, Media Edition) or any version of Vista or Windows 7 and the software suite listed below.

2. Software Suite:

Microsoft Office 2003 Professional is the standard productivity software at NMMI. The Institute has a Microsoft CampusWide License agreement which allows us to issue Microsoft Office 2003 Professional to all students. The software suite can be installed from the NMMI network when cadets arrive on campus.

Internet Explorer, which normally comes with Windows, is the Internet browser of choice. Firefox and other alternative browsers can be used, however some minor problems may be noted.

Outlook Web Access is provided as a web interface to each cadet's NMMI email. It is each cadet's responsibility to check this email frequently as all campus emails sent to the cadets will likely use this account.

3. Virus and SpyWare Protection

Viruses and SpyWare can lead to slow system performance, lost data, identity theft and computer downtime. NMMI requires that an anti-virus and anti-spyware program be install to provide this protection. McAfee and AVG can also be used for virus protection. The key is to keep your definitions up to date and make sure your protection is really protecting you.

4. Computer Hardware:

The configurations listed below represent baseline units that will allow students to operate effectively in the NMMI computing environment. If you already have a system that meets the short-range specifications, your system should be sufficient initially. If you do not yet have a system, we strongly recommend you purchase one that meets the long-range specifications. Other configurations (with slower processors and/or less RAM) may or may not run required software efficiently and will certainly "age" faster than the configurations listed. The specified configurations will allow for the successful completion of academic work.

5. NIC/Ethernet Cards:

A very important part of your computer system is its network interface card, or NIC (also called a network adapter or Ethernet card). The NIC is installed in your computer and allows it to "talk" to the New Mexico Military Institute computer network and the Internet. When you purchase your system, make sure your vendor installs the NIC. An incompatible NIC could prevent your computer from working with the NMMI computer network.

Wireless (WiFi, or 802.11b/g) access is available in academic areas. These areas include the library and buildings with academic classrooms. There is NO wireless availability in the barracks. Laptop users may use the wireless network in addition to the wired network they will need for barracks use.


6. Ethernet Cables:

Make sure you get a 10Base-T Ethernet cable with RJ-45 connectors. These cables often are not included with new systems, so be sure to ask for one. We recommend a 6-foot or longer cable. Each cadet can request an Ethernet cable from Information Services if they did not get one with their computer.

7. Insurance:

We strongly recommend insurance for cadet computers. Insurance should be provided for the computer under your home owner's policy or from other sources against damage or theft. Please check with your insurance agent or company. It is not covered under the Institute's insurance.

In Summary - Make sure you have the following:

  1. Operating System (Windows XP Home, Pro, Media Edition or Vista or Windows 7) *
  2. Software Suite (MS Office 2003 Professional)
  3. Virus and SpyWare Protection
  4. Computer Hardware
  5. NIC/Ethernet card
  6. Ethernet cable
  7. Insurance

 

Help Us Help You: To ease your transition into the New Mexico Military Institute computing environment this fall:

  1. Ensure your computer meets the specifications required to well on a network.

  2. Bring with you to campus all the manuals, floppy disks, and CDs you received with your computer. Keep them with you (don't let your parents take them back home). This will help you if you encounter any computing problems.

  3. Bring a copy of your purchase receipt in case you need to have warranty repair performed.

  4. Computers shipped to NMMI will be issued following matriculation.

  5. IS staff will provide connection instructions to help get your computer connected to the network as quickly as possible.

 

System/Software

Operating System PC - Intel Based or Compatible
Microsoft Windows XP (Home, Pro, Media Edition), Vista or Windows 7.
Non Windows XP/Vista/Windows 7 OSes are NOT supported, this includes Linux and MacOS. All provided instructions are written for Windows XP Pro users.

 

Software Suite PC - Intel Based or Compatible
Microsoft Office 2003 Professional
NMMI will be using Office 2003 during the upcoming academic year. Again the Campus Agreement will allow cadets, faculty and staff to upgrade to Office 2003.  Office 2003 installation instructions will be provided during a training session within the first few weeks at NMMI.

 

 

Computer Hardware
The specifications listed below apply to Intel based PC's or compatible systems, desktops and portables . If you have a computer already and its specifications fall between the short- and long-range systems, you may want to start off at NMMI using that computer.

Short-range System Long-range System
Processor Speed 2 GHz 3 GHz and/or duo core
Memory (RAM) 2 GB or more 4 GB
Hard Disk Drive 80 Gigabytes 100 Gigabytes or better
CD/DVD Drive CD-RW/DVD DVD burner, CD-RW combo
Multimedia Capable Yes Yes
Monitor 17" flat panel 19" flat panels, up to 21" are good options also, larger are not recommended due to space.
USB Memory stick 2GB capacity or better 8GB capacity or better
Printer Inkjet or laser Inkjet or laser
Ethernet Card See below See below
Modem** Modems not allowed in barracks Modems not allowed in barracks
Warranty 3 year on-site parts and repairs minimum 3 year on-site parts and repairs minimum
**New Mexico Military Institute does not have sufficient telephone lines to support Internet access via modem for the corps. 10 MB wired Ethernet is available at all cadet desks providing free access to the Internet.  Use of a modem may result in phone restrictions or other disciplinary measures.

NIC/Ethernet Cards
There are many Network Interface Cards (NIC) on the market, some of which will not work at NMMI. NMMI Information Services has had very good luck with the 3Com cards. We know they work with our network. A large number of cadets have purchased NIC cards in Roswell for approximately $30 that worked well on our network.

Network Card System Recommended NIC
PC Desktop Any 3Com 10Base-T card, most other brands also work after proper installation.
PC Notebook Integrated LAN/Ethernet/NIC card OR 10Base-T 3Com PC Card (PCMCIA)

 

For more information: compserv@nmmi.edu or 575-624-4357 (HELP).