Minimum Requirements
In order to run IMS-PIC properly, HUD recommends a workstation
with the following minimum requirements:
- Computer with Pentium III processor or higher (or equivalent
Apple Mac)
- 1000 MB or larger hard drive
- 512 MB or more RAM
- VGA or better Monitor
- 54.4Kbps modem connected to an outside telephone line or a direct,
broadband connection to the Internet
- Operating system capable of Internet access
- Internet Browser (with 128-bit SSL encryption and the latest
security patches installed): Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 or
later, or Netscape 8.0 or later, or Firefox 2.0 or later, or Opera
9.0 or later
Internet Browser Preferences
The ability to set preferences allows the user to choose the settings
they favor within the web browser. PIC will operate more efficiently
if your Internet browser has certain preferences set. In some cases,
PIC will not run if your Internet browser preferences have incorrect
settings.
How do I find out what browser I have?
- Click on “Help” in your browser.
- There will be a menu option that begins with "About (browser
name)". Select this option to determine which browser and version
you are using.
Preferences for all browsers
- Your browser must accept “cookies”
- Caching must be turned off so that the browser gets a new copy
of the page every time
- Your browser must use 128-bit encryption (SSL)
- Security should be set initially to “medium” or “default” (experiment
with higher settings later)
- Turn off “Autocomplete” for passwords
- You must disable pop-up blocking for the PIC web site in order
to see PIC reports
Upgrading Your Internet Browser
If
you already have an Internet browser, but you need a newer version,
you can upgrade your browser free of charge on the Internet For
information on downloading a newer version of your current browser,
please visit these web sites:
Please
note that listing these web sites does not constitute an endorsement
by HUD, or any of its employees, of the sponsors of these sites
or the products presented on these sites.
Finding an Internet Service Provider
In order to obtain an Internet Service Provider in your area, you
can look in the Yellow Pages of the telephone book under "Computers."
Usually there is a section called "On-line Access Providers"
or similar language which will give you a list of companies in your
area that can provide Internet access. It may be helpful to call
two or three providers to compare prices and services. Only basic
Internet service is needed to use PIC to submit data or access IMS-PIC.
In many cases, the Internet Service Provider will provide Internet
browser software and will provide assistance for installing the
software, configuring a modem, and accessing the Internet. You should
ensure that the provider you select does, in fact, provide the support.
Once installed, access to the Internet will require a connection
from your computer to a phone or cable TV line via a phone or cable
modem. The Internet Service Provider may also be able to provide
Internet access through a direct DSL connection.
Purchasing a Computer or Internet Service
Operating funds and/or Capital funds can be used to purchase or
lease computers and Internet services that meet the requirements
for using the Public and Indian Housing Information Center.
If your Housing Authority cannot meet the technical requirements,
please contact your Field Office. Your Field Office may have additional
suggestions for you such as using a computer at your local library
or office services store or leasing a system.
|