Technical device requiremetns for dvm students
UF Student Computing Requirement Policy
The University of Florida requires all students to have continuous ongoing access to computer hardware and software appropriate to their degree program. Coursework in all degree programs requires the use of a computer and reliable high-speed internet connectivity. Activities related to student life including academic advisement, course registration, official university correspondence, use of library resources, and student financial affairs are predicated on access to a computer with internet connectivity. UF Policy: 12-030
Device Requirements
- The College of Veterinary Medicine requires all students to have access to a laptop with privacy screen, webcam and microphone. Laptops must be capable of meeting minimum system requirements below.
- Chromebooks are not approved devices and not compatible with required programs.
- Virtual cameras and headphones with built-in microphones are not supported.
Device Technical Requirements
| Feature | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Processor (Non-ARM-based) | Intel Core i3+ , AMD Ryzen 5+, Apple M1+ | Multi-core AMD, Intel, M1, or M2 processor |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB | 16GB |
| Hard Drive (Storage) | 256GB or more | 512GB or more |
| Screen Display | 1280 x 768 | 1280 x 768 |
| Internet (Network) | Wireless (Wi-Fi 802.11b) | Ethernet & Wireless (Wi-Fi 802.11b) |
| Other Features | USB ports, Webcam with integrated microphone | USB ports, Webcam with integrated microphone |
| Accessories | Headphones (NON-Bluetooth), Privacy Screen | Noise cancelling headphones (NON-Bluetooth), Privacy Screen |
| Operating System | Windows 10 (64-bit), MacOS 12 (Monterey) | Windows 10 Pro (64-Bit), MacOS 13 (Ventura), MacOS 14 (Sonoma) |
| Software | Microsoft Office, Adobe Reader, Examplify, Zoom | Microsoft Office, Adobe Reader, Examplify, Zoom |
| Approved Tablet Devices (Not Required) | Microsoft Surface Pro, iPad 5+, iPad Air 2+, iPad Mini 4+ | Microsoft Surface Pro, iPad 5+, iPad Pro |
*NOTES
- The versions of Windows certified for use currently are Windows 10 22H2, Windows 11 22H2, and Windows 11 23H2.
- Many required programs are not compatible within virtualized environments or environments that require persistent network (local or otherwise) connections during secure exams. This includes, but is not limited to, VMWare, Parallels, Citrix workspace, virtual disks, streamed images, etc.
- Privacy Filter – All students must have a privacy filter for their computer or any other device screen that will be used for exam testing and in-class quizzes.
- A tablet is NOT required. However, you may use a tablet as a supplemental device to your laptop. iPads and Microsoft Surfaces are the only Examplify compatible device at this time. If you are using a Microsoft Surface device, please read this article for important instructions on Windows 10 and 11 “S mode” versus the standard Windows 10 or 11. S mode is not compatible with Examplify. iPad instructions below
- UF CVM does not recommend students rely on tablet devices, mobile phones, or Chromebook devices as their primary computer as they do not meet minimum requirements.
Responsibilities
Technical Support and Repair
When your computer needs repair, it is your responsibility to see that the repairs are done quickly so that you will be able to use your computer for University assignments. Service plans are available from local vendors.The UF Computing Help Desk offers e-mail and walk-in service for technical assistance.
Purchasing and Software
The University has purchasing agreements with selected vendors. Their computers are available at the Campus Shop and the UF Bookstore. Local vendors will also sell and service appropriate computers and recommended software bundles.
Financial aid may be available to assist you with the expenses of computing. Expenses may include purchase or lease costs as well as charges for Internet services, supplies, printing, and maintenance.
Please note that computer technology changes rapidly, and it is unlikely that the computer you purchase today will be adequate to the tasks you will be required to perform after four years at UF. Plan to upgrade or otherwise improve your computer during your stay at UF.
Student Resources
IT Services
To help you navigate the myriad of information, here are helpful resources for getting started, while you are on campus, and after you arrive.
General Troubleshooting
UF IT Computing HelpDesk provides assistance with a wide-range of technical issues. You can use their General Troubleshooting page for instructions with frequently asked problems.
Computer Security
UF IT security provides information on how to protect your computer.
ExamSoft/Examplify
ExamSoft is a secure testing solution that is used for high stakes exams. This software enables secure testing on student computers by blocking access to programs, files and Internet usage during the test. ExamSoft is not dependent on an internet connection while testing, which allows it to be used almost anywhere a device can be used. The client (vendor) used for testing students is Examplify. ExamSoft Help Site
UF E-Learning/ Canvas
Canvas (e-Learning) is the learning management system used by the University of Florida. Exams or Quizzes in Canvas will be housed within their respective courses, and organized beneath the ‘Quizzes’ tab within the course. Help with Canvas can be found here.
UFApps
UFApps provides access to software applications from any computing device–laptops, tablets, desktops, and smartphones–from any location, at any time. Students and faculty can start using UFApps for coursework now!