Requirements

The technical requirements for most online classes include access to a computer with a modern operating system and the following resources.

In addition to the technology requirements for your computer, you should possess some basic computer skills including the ability to:

Technical Support

The Student Help Desk provides technical support for online classes at PCC. If you need help, you can call, chat online or email them.

If you are ever concerned that Desire2Learn or another PCC technology is not functioning, check the Student Help Desk website's Distance Learning Status Feed for updates about technology issues at the college.

Internet Connection Speed Test

It is important to have a reliable internet connection in order to take online courses. We recommend a broadband internet connection (such as DSL or Cable).

The following test is helpful in determining if your internet connection is fast enough in order to successfully take online classes through PCC.

Instructions

Click Begin Test and wait.

What the results mean

The download speed is the rate at which you are able to download data from a server. The higher the rate, the faster the connection.

The upload speed is the rate at which you are able to upload data to the internet. The higher the rate, the faster the connection. Note: Depending on the type of internet connection you may have, the upload speed may be substantially lower than the download speed.

How does my connection speed measure up?

If your download speed is greater than 256 kbps, your internet connection should be sufficient for taking online classes at PCC, though we recommend faster connections.

If your download speed is less than 256 kbps, you may want to consider upgrading your internet connection or finding a faster internet connection elsewhere (possibly at a campus, public library, etc). If a faster internet connection is unavailable to you, you may find it frustrating to take your online courses.

If your speed test results display in Mbps units, (greater than 1 Mbps), your internet connection is fast enough.