Computer and Software Requirements
Because of the current shift to online courses, all Architecture and Building Technology students will be required to have a functional computer to complete their Fall 2020 courses. The minimum system requirements for computers are designed to ensure success through the student’s program of study. Systems that do not meet the minimum requirements may be slower or may not run the advanced software used in some of the courses and disciplines. The Architecture & Building Technology Department also requires that all of our students subscribe to the AutoDesk web site, free student downloads and accounts.
Cost of new computers can range from $750.00 to $ 2,400.00 depending on the computer chosen. Refurbished or reconditioned computers could cost less, and can be used as long as the specifications are meet. Windows PC platform works best for the software used in our department, and either a laptop or desk top is acceptable. Apple MacBooks are acceptable and must meet the same hardware requirements as a Windows system with the follow specifications under MacBooks. The mobility of a laptop makes it convenient to work from anywhere. Basic
PC Specifications:
Recommended Processor: Intel, Xeon, or i-Series processor or AMD equivalent with SSE2 (Intel core i5 or higher, Intelcore i7 is recommended; 2.5 GHz minimum or 3 + GHz processor.)
Basic: 8 GH / 16 GH Recommended of system RAM
Hard Drive: 500 GB or larger (recommended)
Operating System: Windows 10, 64 Bit (Windows 7 or 8 will work as well)
Video: 24 bit color
Video Conferencing Tools: Functional Mic, Speaker, & Camera
Graphics card: 1 GB GPU with 29 GB/s Bandwidth and DirectX 11 compliant
Monitor: 1920 x 1080 True Color recommended or 1280 x 800 True Color / 13” minimum (recommended)
Storage: SSD recommended - 20 GB to 30 GB
Apple MacBook Computer Specifications:
Same specification’s as PC above with 16 GB of RAM, 500 GB SSD and the latest processor. These hardware requirements are necessary because you will need to install Bootcamp to run software under the Windows operating system.
Web Site with instructions on how to download Bootcamp: https://support.apple.com/boot-camp
Additional Information for downloads:
Student Page to create account and download software needed on AutoDesk. Please refer to course syllabus for correct program and version before downloading software. (https://www.autodesk.com/education/home)
Fusion 360 / free download for students and teachers:
https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/students-teachers-educators
Tornado Warnings.
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