Welcome 1st year,
It is recommended that you have adequate computing available to you throughout your studies, normally this starts with a decent laptop. Most of the software you will use is currently supported on the major operating systems (OSs) such as Windows, macOS or Unix/Linux based. However, the operating system supported at UL is Windows with only limited support for others.
If buying a Windows laptop, the minimal recommended specifications for a mid-range laptop are:
Specification |
Recommended minimum: |
Display |
14in High Definition (1920X1080) Full HD |
Processor |
Intel® 10th Generation Intel® Core™ i5 or equivalent |
Memory |
16GB |
Secondary storage |
256GB Solid State Drive |
Operating System |
Windows 11 Home 64bit |
A lower specified machine will suffice at the start of your studies e.g. i3 processor/8GB memory/HD display, but usability and performance may become issues.
We do not recommend a particular laptop or manufacturer. However, the Higher Education Authority have worked with suppliers to make package deals available for students on their HEAnet Store. To explore, first navigate to the HEAnet Store University of Limerick as the home organisation page, and login with your UL login (required).
Dell is the preferred supplier for Windows laptops and if you click on one of the Dell offerings you will be brought to the Dell store, where again you will be required to login or to register.
One Dell laptop that can be configured to satisfy the above specification is the Dell Latitude 5420 (increase the memory to 16GB, select a full HD screen either touch or non-touch, and obey instructions about OS if an error occurs). Prices are displayed excluding VAT (23%), but the final price which includes a very attractive 5-year warranty is about €800 including VAT (September 2021 with an estimated 5-week lead time).
Another listed laptop, the Dell Latitude 3410 is upgradeable to i5/16GB/512GB/5yr (€870 VAT included), the HD screen isn’t and hence it’s not recommended.
A much more powerful laptop is the Dell Mobile Precision Workstation 3561 (€1460), the cost is difficult to justify at the outset, and you may consider similar after Cooperative Education.
Finally, for improved ergonomics and more effective working, you should consider purchasing a case, a monitor (at least 21” in size with minimum full HD resolution), and an external keyboard and mouse.
We encourage you to get familiar with computer specifications before purchasing and to shop around.
Best of luck on your selection.
If you have any queries relative to grading and progression please read the information provided by Academic Registry
APPEAL DATES - STUDENT DEADLINES (Spring 2023/24) | START DATE | FINISH DATE |
Final Results issued to students |
Friday |
Friday 06.09.2024 |
Student Recheck Application Period | Friday 06.09.2024 |
Friday |
Viewing days for Scripts E&CE Department | Tuesday 10.09.2024 |
Wednesday 11.09.2024 |
Student Status Committee
(Application deadline: 12:00 on Friday, 13 September 2024) |
Wednesday 18.09.2024 |
Wednesday 18.09.2024 |
Student Status Chairpersons Meeting UL | Friday 20.09.2024 |
Friday 20.09.2024 |
Script viewing will take place as follows:
EE, CE, ET, And ED Modules
BE students all years + Grad Dip Students
Time: By Appointment Only – Email to reserve Appointment no later than Monday 9th September.
Date: Tuesday 10th September 2024
BSc students all years + MEng Students
Time: By Appointment Only – Email to reserve Appointment no later than Monday 9th September.
Date: Wednesday 11th September 2024
Please ensure to email Caroline.Dalton@ul.ie to reserve your time slot along with the Application Form attached. Application forms must be submitted per module.