This site will look much better in a browser that supports web standards, but it is accessible to any browser or Internet device.
College of Engineering and Applied Science Student Computer Purchase Recommendations
May 2009
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, Computer Science, and Computer Engineering students should use the larger specifications as minimum specifications). Autodesk and SolidWorks users should check the video card recommendations at the vendors web sites.
|
|
Desktop |
Laptop |
|
Computer
Processor |
Dual Core
2.4-3.1GHz |
Dual Core
1.8-2.2 GHz |
|
Memory |
2GB - 4GB |
2GB - 4GB |
|
Hard
Drive |
250GB |
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 |
|
Optional |
|
2nd
A/C |
|
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
