2013-2014 Laptop
Information Guide

ASB is a proud leader in the use of Information Technology to enhance our students’ educational experiences. We believe that by using technology appropriately, students are more highly engaged in their own education, have increased opportunities to develop higher order thinking skills, and are better prepared to participate in a world where technological fluency is essential.

Several years back, ASB invested in a robust infrastructure standardizing on the Microsoft Windows platform and a Tablet PC to support student learning. With the advancement of internet technologies, ASB has been strategically moving all software and tools to the “cloud” (Internet). Except for a few applications that require installation on the hard drive, most of our applications are now “cloud” (Internet) based. Rapid changes in both hardware and software technologies have allowed us to consider alternative technologies. As most of our core learning systems are accessible via the web, standardizing on one operating system/device isn't necessary. We no longer need to lock into any one platform and technology.

Beginning from the 2012-2013 school year, we will no longer require families to purchase Tablet PCs for our Middle and High School students. We will instead require them to bring any laptop that meets the minimum specifications listed in this document. Please note the following:

iPads and Android based devices do not meet the minimum requirements for a student owned device. However a student may bring in an iPad or an Android tablet to supplement their main laptop.
ASB will install Microsoft Office for both PC and Mac laptops as well as any other software that is required for classes.

So what does this mean for your child?

If your child . . .	You will need to. . .
Has a Dell XT2 or HP2730P Tablet PC purchased during the 2010-2011 school year	Choose from the following two options: 1. Purchase an extended warranty. Email it@asbindia.org for this. 2. Bring a laptop to school that meets the minimum specifications.
Has a HP2740P Tablet PC purchased during the 2011-2012 school year	Continue using the Tablet PC; It is under warranty until July 2014
Is entering Grade 6	Purchase a laptop that meets the minimum specifications.
Is new to ASB and entering Grades 6 through 12	Purchase a laptop that meets the minimum specifications.

ASB Bring-Your-Own-Device (BYOD) Guide

For Middle and High School Students

2013-2014 School Year

This guide contains the following important information. Please read the complete guide.

Recommended Laptop Specifications
Free Software you need to download and install on your laptop
BYOD Program Details

Recommended Laptop Specifications

The following chart should help you in selecting and purchasing a laptop for your child to use while they are at The American School of Bombay. While there are many options, there are minimum specifications that we require to support your child’s learning at ASB.

Machine Type	Laptop
Platform	PC/Mac
Screen Size	11 inches or more
Processor	Intel i3 or Higher AMD Athlon II or Higher
RAM	2 GB or Higher
Hard Drive	160 GB or Higher
Operating System	Windows 7 Professional or Higher, Vista Professional or Higher, Mac OSX or Higher Must support English
Wireless	802.11g or Higher
Ports	2 USB ports, Audio in/out, In-built microphone, VGA
Battery Life	4+ hours (4+ cell or higher)
Warranty	3 Year warranty with Damage protection

Laptop Purchase Guide - This document lists laptop options that you can consider. These options meet the approved specifications for the BYOD program. It describes in detail the different models from each manufacturer. The document will be updated regularly as new models are released.

Free Software you need to download and install on your laptop

The following free software needs to be downloaded and installed on your laptop for use in school.

REQUIRED SOFTWARE
Internet Browsers (Minimum of two different browsers should be installed)