Computer Recommendations
What kind of computer do I need?
You can access email, announcements, and small assignments using your phone, but most activities and assignments will require a computer. Students also have difficulty with some materials when using a tablet or Chromebook.
- If purchasing a new computer, most programs recommend PC’s and should have the following
specifications:
- Windows PC Operating system with Windows 10
- 4 GB RAM memory (8 GM RAM preferred). (*Note: If you are pursuing computer aided drafting programs you need to consider the preferred memory size).
- 128g solid state hard drive or 512gig regular drive as a minimum.
- Wireless network card. (*Note: this is standard on most laptops and newer desktop computers.)
- Webcam (*Note: this is standard on most laptops and many newer desktop computers.)
- Speakers and Microphone or Headset with microphone.
- Please note that Visual Communications students should contact the program coordinator before purchasing a new machine.
- If you already have a personal computer, it needs to have the following specifications:
- Windows 8 or higher
- 4 GB RAM memory (8 GM RAM preferred). (*Note: If you are pursuing computer aided drafting programs you need to consider the preferred memory size).
- 7200 rpm hard drive with a 256 GB hard drive or higher.
- Wireless network card. (*Note: this is standard on most laptops and newer desktop computers.)
- Webcam (*Note: this is standard on most laptops and many newer desktop computers.)
- Speakers and Microphone OR Headset with microphone.
- If you already have an Apple Mac system, it needs to have the following specifications:
- Operating system of 10.11 or higher.
- Wireless network card for internet connection (most Apple systems have a wireless network card).
- Webcam (*Note: this is standard on most laptops and many newer desktop computers.)
- Speakers and Microphone or Headset with microphone.
- Please note that some courses use software that is not compatible with Mac systems.
