Can I run Windows on a Mac?
Do I need to purchase a warranty?
Does ECU recommend iPads, smartphones or tablets?
How do I connect to the internet on campus?
How will I use my computer?
My Department does not have a specific recommendation. Which computer should I choose?
Should I purchase a laptop instead of a desktop?
What do I need to know about printing?
What software will I need?
What type of computer do I need?
Where can I find assistance?
Can I run Windows on a Mac?
With an application like Boot Camp or Parallels, Intel-based Mac computers can run the Windows operating system. Boot Camp is free with macOS, but you cannot run both Windows and macOS at the same time. Parallels allows both operating systems to run at once. Parallels is available for a fee.
To use one of these applications, you will also have to install a copy of Microsoft Windows on your Mac (see the software section below on how to get a FREE OS upgrade through ECU). While these applications do work, be aware that neither Microsoft nor Apple officially supports the running of Windows on a Mac computer. Check with your department before making this decision.
There are limitations with the Apple Silicon M1 and M2 chips: 1) M1/M2-based Macs ONLY support one external monitor natively. In our experience, this has been a major deterrent for some Mac users. 2) Boot Camp is not supported on M1 or M2 Macs, so dual booting options are limited to Mac virtual machine apps like Parallels Desktop. Additionally, since our Microsoft contract does not include the ARM version of Windows, ITCS does not support running Windows on a Mac for Apple M1 and M2 (non Intel based).
Do I need to purchase a warranty?
Four-year warranties are recommended for all computers. Accidental damage insurance is also highly recommended. Having warranty protection with a local service provider insures you have minimal time without your computer should there be a problem and also helps with unplanned costs. Check with the Dowdy Student Stores for available options.
Does ECU recommend iPads, smartphones or tablets?
Although popular, we recommend smartphones and tablets as a second computing device rather than a main computer.
Smartphones are widely used to check email and Canvas assignments. We recommend both iPhones and Android-based devices but only offer limited support for any mobile device. Please note that users are generally pointed back to the service provider for most assistance.
How do I connect to the Internet on campus?
Wired Access. All ECU residence halls except Greene have wired network access in every room. Computers need a standard Ethernet cable to connect. A computer must be running a currently supported operating system (Windows 10 or macOS 10.14 or higher).
Wireless Access. Your computer needs a standard 802.11(b, g, n, or ac) wireless card to access wireless. ECU maintains two wireless networks:
The eduroam network service is available in residence halls, all buildings and some campus outdoor spaces as well as off campus wherever the service is available (NC State campus, for example). Each wireless device must onboard (connect) to the eduroam service. Begin the process at onboard.ecu.edu.
The ecu-wifi network is used to connect internet-ready devices such as smart TVs and other multimedia equipment not supported by the eduroam network. Please be aware that devices like personal wireless routers are not permitted to connect to either network.
Cell service has been expanded and is available to many buildings and outside areas on campus.
How will I use my computer?
All students use online resources to register for classes, pay tuition, purchase a parking pass and more. Many campus classes involve a combination of face-to-face meetings with online participation, or you may be enrolled in a completely online program. Most students, whether campus or DE, use Canvas, ECU’s online learning management system, to retrieve and submit assignments, access class resources, take quizzes and check grades. Your instructors, the Financial Aid Office and others communicate with you through email. Class assignments might include meeting online and chat through Microsoft Teams collaboration tool.
Most assignments and other coursework are completed using Microsoft Office. You are eligible for 5 computer downloads (Mac or Windows) or you can create and edit Word, PowerPoint and Excel files through your browser within OneDrive cloud storage (part of Microsoft 365 subscription). Several departments also have specific software packages to complete assignments. All students should consult with their academic adviser before choosing a computer.
My Department does not have a specific recommendation. Which computer should I choose?
Any of the ECU-recommended, basic computer configurations will meet your needs. ECU makes every effort to ensure that commonly-used student applications (email, Canvas, Banner, etc.) run on both the Windows and Mac platforms. However, we cannot guarantee that every software application required by an instructor will run on both platforms. There are rare occasions when applications only run on a PC. However, on-campus computer labs and the virtual computing lab often have software to complete assignments.
Should I purchase a laptop instead of a desktop?
A laptop’s portability and ECU’s wireless network allows you to access the internet in all buildings on campus and some public outdoor spaces. You can take your computer to class, the library and study sessions. Laptops also make it easy to take your computer home while on breaks or for the weekend.
What do I need to know about printing?
Enrolled students receive a yearly $30 print allowance for use in computer labs and libraries. The Pirate Print service allows a student to print course assignments at various printers on campus. See the Pirate Print service page for locations.
What software will I need?
Visit software.ecu.edu for a list of ECU-supported software. Most are available through the ECU Download Center.
Windows Operating System.
Microsoft Office. Your Microsoft 365 subscription allows FIVE Office suite downloads. Both Mac and PC versions available.
OneDrive cloud storage also includes Office apps Word, Excel and PowerPoint so you can create and edit documents within your browser. Mobile apps are available. Please note that Outlook mobile is the recommended app for ECU email.
After graduation, you ECU email address transitions to the alumni system, and you also get to keep your 1TB OneDrive cloud storage with the Word, Excel and PowerPoint Office apps. However, the Office download installed on your laptop or desktop computer will no longer work and files will become read-only once you leave ECU. Remember that they can be edited online if they are saved to your OneDrive cloud storage!
Campus computer labs. Often, you may need a special program to complete classwork. ECU has campus computer labs with various software available. Printers are also available (see “Print Quota” below).
Virtual Computer Lab (VCL) . ECU maintains an online computer lab where students connect to a remote computer from anywhere through their internet connection. These remote computers are loaded with many specialty software needed for certain classes. This saves you from having to purchase the software. The VCL is available to students enrolled in the current semester only.
There may be additional software required by your instructors. Many software packages are available for purchase through ECU's bookstore.
What type of computer do I need?
Many academic programs require or recommend students have a computer. Some departments may require a laptop you can bring to class or a system that is able to run specific software. For example, you may need a high-end video card or a minimum amount of RAM.
All students should consult with their advisor before choosing a computer. See the latest computer and program recommendations.
Where can I find assistance?
ECU’s Pirate Techs is available during business and evening hours to provide phone assistance for common computing issues. Call 252-328-9866.
Pirate Techs Technology Support Center has four locations: Austin 103, Laupus Library 1500, Joyner Library 1101 and Main Campus Student Center 206. Services include software troubleshooting, virus/spyware removal and network troubleshooting. see the Pirate Techs page for a full service list.