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Home> Public Services > Distance Learning > VSU Vista > Minimum Requirements

Technical Requirements

Having a correctly configured computer will help ensure your success in BlazeVIEW (Formerly WebCT Vista). Check the information below to be sure that your computer meets all the necessary technical requirements for hardware and software. Links to the plug-ins (special free software) that you will need are also listed below.

Computer Hardware & Peripherals

• Windows PC or Apple Macintosh: 
• Monitor with 1028 x 768 resolution or better
• PC:  Sound card with speakers or headphones, required in some courses
• Some courses require a microphone (a USB headset might be ideal)
• A printer is highly recommended

Supported Operating Systems

• Windows XP or Microsoft VistaOS
• MacOS X 10.3.9 or higher  ("Classic" MacOS 9 is not supported.)

Internet Access

A connection to the Internet access is required to use BlazeVIEW at VSU.  A high-speed internet connection (cable modem, DSL, or LAN) is strongly recommended.  Performance may suffer over dialup, especially for those courses with audio and/or video components.

 

Java

Java is a program that works with your Internet Browser to enable online interaction. Java allows you to post online discussions, chat with people around the world, take online quizzes and surveys, or manipulate objects on a web page. It's also integral to the web-based applications and other e-learning solutions that are the foundation of online courses.

1. Click here to download Java.
2. Follow the instructions on the Java Downloads site.
3. When installing Java, follow the prompts to install the Typical Java installation. Be patient during the install process!
4. Restart your computer to complete the installation process.

NOTE: If you are using a Macintosh, click here to download Java for your Mac OS version.

 

Supported Web Browsers

Browsers: For Windows and Macintosh

NOTE: Do NOT download BETA versions of browsers - these are not compatible with Vista.

Browser	Windows XP	Windows Vista Desktop	Mac 10. 3	Mac 10.4	Mac 10.5
Microsoft Internet Explorer 7	Compatible	Certified	Not Tested	Not Tested	Not Tested
Mozilla Firefox 2.0	Compatible	Certified	Compatible	Compatible	Certified
Apple Safari 3	Not Tested	Not Tested	Not Tested	Compatible	Certified

Browser Settings:
Your browser settings will vary depending on the browser you choose. Use the BlazeVIEW Browser Checker to make sure your browser is properly prepared:

http://blazeview.valdosta.edu//webct/browserchecker.dowebct?checkType=manual
 

Plug-ins

You may need these free software utilities for VSU online courses. Some courses may require additional software; check your course syllabus.

• Adobe Acrobat Reader  (for viewing and printing PDF files)
• Real Player (for viewing streaming video or listening to streaming audio clips)
• Windows Media Player  (for viewing streaming video or listening to streaming audio clips)
• Apple Quicktime  (for viewing streaming video or listening to streaming audio clips)
• FlashPlayer (for viewing multimedia, animations or using interactive content)
• Shockwave Player (for viewing multimedia, animations or using interactive content)

 

Browser Toolbars:

Uninstall Yahoo, Google, AOL, or any other Browser Toolbars

Although the browser toolbars are useful tools for searching the Internet, we recommend that youuninstall these so that youronline course will functionproperly. Inyour browser,your toolbar (if you have one) will be immediately under the line on your browser where you can type in a web address.

For example:

To uninstall browser toolbars:

• Click the Start button on the bottom left of your screen.
• From the Start menu, select Control Panel (if it is visible) or select the Settings option, and then clickControl Panel from the secondary menu.A new window will appear.
• For Windows XP, double-click Add/Remove Programs; for Windows Vista, under Programs, click Uninstall a program.
• Locate the toolbar,click on it, then click Change/Remove (XP) or Uninstall (Vista) and follow the on-screen instructions to remove the toolbar.

 

Pop-Up Blocker Programs:

While doing online course work, if you are unable to view discussion postings, quiz windows, and download links, then you need to configure yourbrowser to allow pop ups for theURL (web address) of your online course site... Continue reading complete information >>

 

Virus & Spyware Protection Software

ALL COMPUTERS CONNECTING TO THE INTERNET—especially those running Windows, or using Microsoft Office software (Word, PowerPoint)—SHOULD HAVE CURRENT VIRUS DETECTION/REMOVAL SOFTWARE INSTALLED.  IN ADDITION, ALL WINDOWS COMPUTERS SHOULD BE RUNNING SPYWARE DETECTION/REMOVAL SOFTWARE, WITH CURRENT DEFINITIONS.

It is possible for Internet users to spread a virus by sharing infected computer files, and spyware can be picked up anywhere while surfing the web.  Directions for locating and downloading Virus & Spyware Protection software may be found at the VSU Anti-Virus Resources page - http://www.valdosta.edu/antivirus/

 

If you have any further questions, please contact us for support. Thank you.

-Technical Support

Adapted from University System of Georgia: Advanced Learning Technologies content

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