This article will assist students in selecting computers with appropriate specifications for their course work.
Gen Ed. Computer Recommendation
Gen ed courses do not require any advanced hardware. Low budget computers will suffice. These are not bare minimum requirements but minimum recommendations for a good student experience.
OS: Windows 10
CPU: i5 2.7 GHz
RAM: 6-8 GB of RAM
Graphics: onboard graphics or dedicated GPU with 128MB RAM or better
Peripherals recommended:
Speakers and/or headphone/audio jack
Webcam (integrated or USB plug-and-play).
Browser: Chrome or Firefox (latest version)
Tech Ed Computer Recommendation
Tech Ed courses such as GDT, DDT, EMP, MTT require intensive software such as Adobe Creative Suite, AutoCAD, etc. More capable hardware is recommended. These are not bare minimum requirements but minimum recommendations for a good student experience.
OS: Windows 10
CPU: 3.0 GHz
RAM: 12-16 GB of DDR4 RAM
Graphics: dedicated GPU with 256MB of dedicated graphics RAM
Hard drive: 256MB SSD
Peripherals recommended:
Speakers and/or headphone/audio jack
Webcam (integrated or USB plug-and-play).
Browser: Chrome or Firefox (latest version)
GDT/EMP Mac Recommendation
Some programs are for fields were Macs are heavily used. Mac technology has a shorter end of life / end of support than PC technology. These are not bare minimum requirements, they are minimum recommendations for a good student experience.
OS: Mac OSX 10.6 and newer
RAM: 16 GB of DDR4 RAM
Graphics: dedicated GPU with 256MB of dedicated graphics RAM
Harddrive: 256GB SSD
Browser: Safari or Chrome for Mac (latest version)
Online Classes Requirements
Online classes have the lightest needs.
OS: Windows 10
CPU: 2.7GHz or higher
RAM: 4 GB or higher
Graphics: Onboard graphics or dedicated GPU
Peripherals recommended:
Speakers and/or headphone/audio jack
Webcam (integrated or USB plug-and-play).
Chrome or Firefox (latest version)
Broadband Internet