About Windows 7 at Ball State University
Windows 7 is the latest version of the Microsoft Windows operating system. It has new and improved features including faster, more responsive performance. That means your computer will start up, shut down, and resume from standby faster. Two major time savers are the improved taskbar and the Jump Lists. Visit Microsoft's Web site to learn more about the features and enhancements available with Windows 7.
What version of Windows 7 is available to me?
An upgrade to Windows 7 Ultimate 32-bit or 64-bit can be purchased in the Computer Store for currently enrolled students and for employees who meet the requirements of the "Work from Home" agreement for $14.00.
Windows 7 Enterprise is available for installation on Ball State-owned machines by contacting the HelpDesk and requesting an installation.
How many copies can I buy?
By the terms of the Ball State/Microsoft Campus Agreement, each license key is capable of installing the Windows 7 Ultimate Upgrade on only one computer.
Does my system meet the requirements to upgrade to Windows 7 Ultimate?
You are eligible to upgrade if you are currently using any version of Windows 7 (except Windows 7 Home Premium), Windows Vista (not including the Enterprise edition), or Windows XP.
Your upgrade must be consistent with your system type. For example, you can’t upgrade from Windows Vista Ultimate 32-bit to Windows 7 Ultimate 64-bit or vice versa.
If you would like to run Windows 7 on your computer, please compare the specifications on your machine to those listed below. Listed are Microsoft’s specifications, as well as preferred specification recommended by Unified Technology Support (UTS).
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Minimum Specifications |
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Preferred Specifications |
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- 1GHz 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor
- 1GB of system memory
- A graphics processor that is DirectX 9-capable with Hardware Pixel Shader v2.0 and WDDM Driver support
- 128MB of graphics memory
- 40GB of hard drive capacity with 16GB free space
- DVD-ROM drive
- Audio output capability
- Internet access capability
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- A dual-core (Core 2) processor
- 2GB system memory
- A graphics processor that is DirectX 9-capable with Hardware Pixel Shader v2.0 and WDDM Driver support
- 256MB graphics memory; non-integrated video card
- 80-100GB hard drive wtih 16 GB free space
- DVD-ROM drive
- Audio output capability
- Internet access capability
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For information about Windows 7 system requirements or to learn more about upgrading from an earlier version of Windows, see Microsoft’s Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor.
Where do I purchase my copy of Windows 7 Ultimate?
The Computer Store, located in room 134B in the Robert Bell Building, has copies of Windows 7 Ultimate upgrade available for purchase. Both the 32-bit and 64-bit editions of Windows 7 Ultimate are available for $14.00.
If you are an Online or Distance Education student, you can order a copy of Windows 7 Ultimate from the Computer Store and have it shipped to you. Visit the Computer Store site to learn more and to access the Microsoft Campus Agreement form that must be completed to order the software.
How do I get Windows 7 for my University owned computer?
Employees may request that their University-owned computers be upgraded to Windows 7 by contacting the HelpDesk via e-mail to helpdesk@bsu.edu or by calling 765-285-1517.
Getting Help with Windows 7
For answers to your questions about Windows 7, contact the HelpDesk via e-mail at helpdesk@bsu.edu or by calling 285-1517, or 1-866-771-3276 (toll free).
Students or employees that meet the "Work from Home" requirements to upgrade their home computer, will upgrade with Windows 7 Ultimate. You can review the Windows 7 Upgrade Guide for Windows 7 Ultimate for information about this upgrade.
Students who would like help with the upgrade may schedule an appointment with TechTime.