Hardware considerations when purchasing a computer for the College of Engineering
The College of Engineering recommends that all incoming students own a desktop, laptop, or similarly powerful tablet.
Many students want to install University-supplied software on their laptops for convenience. Due to many software titles being demanding of computer resources like processing power and memory, the following table was created to aid in making decisions on purchases.
Students who instead prefer to use the Eos Virtual Lab environment or visit on campus Eos Labs may choose a machine with the minimum specifications.
| Minimum: | Recommended: |
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Operating System: Windows 11 64-bit - Regarding MacOS, please see note below CPU (Processor): 2.5 GHz 64-bit AMD or Intel processor RAM (Memory): 16GB Graphics Card: NVIDIA or AMD Graphics Card with 4GB of dedicated video memory Storage: 256GB Solid State Drive (SSD) Wireless: 802.11ac capable Warranty: 3 Year hardware warranty from reputable source with accidental damage coverage Accessories: 16GB USB Flash Drive, lightweight power adapter/charger |
Operating System: Windows 11 64-bit - Regarding MacOS, please see note below CPU (Processor): 3 GHz+ 64-bit AMD or Intel processor RAM (Memory): 32GB Graphics Card: NVIDIA or AMD Graphics Card with 8GB of dedicated video memory Storage: 512GB+ Solid State Drive (SSD) Wireless: 802.11ac capable Warranty: 3 Year hardware warranty from reputable source with accidental damage coverage Accessories: 32GB+ USB Flash Drive, lightweight power adapter/charger |
Apple devices
Many applications used by College of Engineering students are only compatible with Windows. Some students choose to use Apple devices with additional software that allows them to run Windows such as Parallels.
Students choosing to use Apple computers may be directed to the Eos Virtual Lab or on campus Eos Labs for using engineering software that is problematic or incompatible with Apple operating systems. Emulators like Parallels could be used but it comes at a financial cost, and increased time investment to install and operate engineering software. The ITECS Service Desk has seen numerous unresolvable issues installing Solidworks in Parallels, and we do not recommend it for that purpose.
For CSC students, this consideration may not be applicable except in specific curriculum like gaming. You may contact the CSC IT department directly to receive specific guidance.
Consumer vs. Business Grade
Consumer grade ("home") products can be more cost effective for purchase. Their intended usage is typically for low to midrange tasks that an average computer user will need.
However, Business grade products tend to be more durable over time with higher specification availability and robust warranty options. These capabilities can be advantageous for the continual use of demanding software.
Discrete Graphics Cards
Discrete graphics is a GPU that is a separate from the processor. Discrete graphics has its own dedicated memory that is not shared with the CPU.
Having a computer equipped with a discrete graphics card either from AMD or Nvidia is needed for some software to run optimally.
Warranty Information
We recommend warranties that are backed by the manufacturers themselves (as opposed to third-party warranties offered by retailers) so you can get service no matter where you are when a problem occurs.
There are repair technicians on-campus at the OIT Walk-In Center who can provide hardware repairs for computers and laptops from Dell, Apple, and Lenovo that are under manufacturer warranty or CPS warranty.