The question returns each year as new students prepare to enroll at UC Davis: What kind of computer should they bring? The set of recommended computer configurations for students, recently updated for 2013-14, has guidance.

Each spring, Information and Educational Technology teams with other departments on campus to refresh the guidelines. They describe machines that should support students' basic needs for two to four years. They do not endorse specific brands or manufacturers.

A few samples:

• If you have an Apple, use operating system 10.7 (Lion) or 10.8 (Mountain Lion).
• If you use Windows, use Windows 7 or newer.
• Screens smaller than 13 inches might be too small for comfortable studying, research and writing.

The guidelines also include a page of standards that define an obsolete system.

This year, the site has added a list of top technology tips for students who will live in the dorms. IT Express Computing Services Help Desk consultants created the list based on common questions they field from new students each summer and fall.