and other helpful hints and suggestions for best performance
and success.
This web site utilizes much of the very latest in technology and
as a result requires that your system meet certain minimum software,
hardware and communication specifications.
Minimum Specifications
The following minimum specifications must be met:
Software:
You must have the latest, free Flash 6 plug-in. If the hands of
the clock are moving then you already have the necessary plug-in.
If the hands are not moving, then you will need to obtain and install
the free plug-in.
Click here
for the free Flash 6 plug-in
The only other software you need is Microsoft Internet Explorer
6.0 or higher. This browser comes pre-installed with most computers
and is available if you are using AOL. If you don't have it you
can get it free from Microsoft and is easily downloaded. Time2Learn
is also works with Netscape but is not fully tested and may not
be fully enabled.
Click here
for Microsoft Internet Explorer
PC & Monitor:
PC with Pentium II, III, or equivalent processor
at least 200 MHz processing speed
at least 64 MB RAM
15 inch VGA Monitor set to at least 800 x 600
Speaker or speakers
Printer:
Not required to use Time2Learn but highly recommended
Communications:
Connection to the Internet via a 56 K modem
Strongly recommend DSL, ADSL or Cable modem
Recommended
Specifications
PC & Monitor:
PC with Pentium III, IV, Celeron, Athlon, Duron or similar processor
400 MHz and higher processing speed
128 MB and higher RAM
17 inch or larger VGA Monitor set to 1024 x 768
Two speakers
Printer:
A color printer is highly recommended! There are many types and
brands of color printers available and it is possible to obtain
a good one for under $100. It is well worth the investment because
Time2Learn allows you to print out every lesson and book for use
off line, and we offer numerous games, exercises and worksheets
that can be printed anytime and as often as you like. Printing these
items will save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars when compared
to buying comparable materials in a store.
Communications:
Internet connection via DSL, ADSL, or Cable modem (high speed)
Note: A very important factor in the quality and convenience of
using Time2Learn is the modem. If possible, please obtain a high
speed connection to the Internet! It makes everything easier and
more convenient.
A high speed modem is not required and we have developed a "preload"
function that allows slower modems to place the lessons and books
on the system prior to actually using them with the child. This
allows systems with slower modems to run all of the materials as
if they were being accessed over a high speed modem. The "preload"
process must be done once a week before viewing new lessons and
books and can take over an hour to complete. If you are using a
high speed modem, it will not be necessary to perform the preload
function.
Sound, Especially Music
There are many factors that affect sound and sound is an important
part of Time2Learn Academy. All of the text presented in Time2Learn
is narrated and there are numerous sound effects presented to add
to the fun of learning. Music is a very appealing aspect of the
Academic Program and having good sound quality can add to the enjoyment
of these materials. Review these tips to help ensure that your system
has good quality sound.
1. Make sure you have speakers on your computer. If you don't,
they can be purchased for anywhere from $10 to under $100 for a
set of two speakers.
2. Sound card. Most computers come equipped with a sound card.
If your system came with speakers, it most certainly has a sound
card inside. If you need to purchase speakers, you should also determine
if your system is in need of a sound card. Sound cards are not expensive
and most computer stores will install them for you.
Note: if you are technically inclined and want to get the most
from sound quality, there are some amazing sound cards that can
make a remarkable difference in the sound quality of much of the
music. This isn't necessary, but it is possible to greatly enhance
the quality of the music if you want to.
3. Volume control. You will need to have volume control on your
system. If you want to encourage reading at an early age you can
mute the sound of the narrated text and have either you or your
child read along. Make sure you familiarize yourself with the volume
control and mute feature of your system.
The Last Word About
This
• Please invest in a good quality system if you don't
already have one. PCs and accessories are relatively inexpensive
these days and good systems can be had for less than $1000, including
monitor and color printer. It is an investment in your child's future
and will have significant return on the investment in the long run.
• Get DSL, ADSL or a Cable modem for your Internet connection.
It will make the experience much more convenient.
• Take the time to find a good color printer and spend
the time it takes to print out the exercises, worksheets and games.
Once again, the savings for the materials you print out over what
they cost in a store is significant!
• Make sure you have set up good quality sound on your
system. Again, most PCs today have dual speakers and pretty good
sound cards, so in most cases you should be ready to go.
If you need information about how to obtain a system at a great
price click here.
