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College of Engineering and Applied Science Student Computer Purchase Recommendations
May 2008

The College of Engineering and Applied Science has several computer labs available to students, some are available to all Engineering students, and others are available to students based on their home department. The College has one computer for every five students and the campus has one computer for every six students.

Students do not need to own computers to complete their degrees, nor does the College require or recommend that students buy computers. If you already own a computer, please do not go out and buy a new computer just to meet the specifications listed below.

If you choose to buy a computer, then you should purchase the best computer you can afford, so it will last your entire academic career. Many computer vendors offer student discounts, so make sure to check.

Laptops are encouraged but not required. Wireless access is being made available around campus. The College provides wireless access near student study areas.

These are the minimum specifications you should follow (AutoCAD 2007 Users, COSC, MIS, and CPEN students should use the larger specifications as minimum specifications). Autodesk and SolidWorks users should check the video card recommendations at the vendors web sites.

Approximate Cost $1,000 - $1,500

 

Desktop

Laptop

Computer Processor

Dual Core 2.4-3.0GHz

Dual Core 1.8-2.2 GHz

Memory

2GB - 4GB

2GB

Hard Drive

160GB

160GB

DVD+RW

Yes

Yes

Video Card

128MB (256MB Preferred)

128MB (256MB Preferred)

Monitor

17" Flat Panel (19" Preferred)

User preference weight vs. size

Ethernet

Yes

Yes

Wireless

Optional

Yes

Modem

Not needed in the Dorms

Not needed in the Dorms

Sound Card w Speakers

Optional

Optional

2nd Laptop Battery

 

Optional

Warranty 4yr Parts/Labor

Yes

Yes

Theft/Damage Insurance

 

Recommended

The University of Wyoming now provides free downloadable upgrades from Windows 2000 or later to Windows XP or Windows Vista Business Edition and free downloadable copies of Office Enterprise 2007 to enrolled students. There are minor charges for media if needed. Check out http://uwadmnweb.uwyo.edu/SOFTWARE/students/.

Students can also obtain a copy of AutoCAD 2007 for free from http://students.autodesk.com