Prepare your computer before you begin your course. Make any changes to the settings that are necessary, download and install any plug-ins you do not have. It is recommended that you have a backup plan for accessing your course should your computer crash or Internet service go down. Most libraries provide Internet access. Computers are available on the Main Campus computer labs, or at any of the Education Centers.

1. Computer

• Complete the Browser Tune-up from BlackBoard

• Windows XP/Vista/7 or Mac OS X

• 512 MB of RAM (1 GB) recommended)

• 1 GHz CPU (Central Processing Unit) or better

• CD-ROM drive

• VGA compatible graphics card installed

• Sound card and speakers installed

• 56kps or broadband (cable, satellite, or DSL) connection recommended

• Word processing software (some instructors require documents to be saved as Microsoft Word or .RTF format)

• Antivirus software and Operating System updates (update often to protect your computer

2. Supported browsers:

• Internet Explorer 6 SP2; 7, 8, and 9

• Firefox 3.0x (Win), 2.0 (Mac)

• Safari 2.x

• Note: The browser settings must be set to enable Java and JavaScript and pop-up blocker software must be disabled prior to beginning an online course. Please review the BlackBoard Tutorial (pdf)  for more details.

Suggested browser plug-in software

• Adobe Flash player

• Adobe Shockwave player

• RealPlayer

• Apple Quicktime player

• Windows Media player

• Adobe Acrobat reader

• Microsoft Word and PowerPoint viewer

4. Applications

• Some courses may require additional software purchases. Be sure to check the instructor's syllabus for any additional course requirements. Most additional software can be purchased at a significantly lower price for students from the Kaskaskia College Bookstore.