Recommended Computer Specifications
Please note that it is highly recommended that students purchase a personal computer based on the Windows Operating System. While students may purchase a personal computer from Apple based on macOS they may encounter interface problems with some of the software packages that the department and college utilize. In addition, some engineering software packages (like SOLIDWORKS) are not developed for macOS.
Hardware Specifications
The recommended hardware specifications seen below operate under the premise that students will purchase a laptop or tablet/convertible form factor.
| Minimum | Recommended | Ideal | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 10 | Windows 10 or 11 | Windows 10 or 11 |
| Processor | Intel Core i5 (or AMD equivalent) | Intel Core i7 (or AMD equivalent) | Intel Core i7 or i9 (or AMD equivalent) |
| Memory (RAM) | 8 GB | 16 GB | 32 GB |
| Storage | 250 GB (SSD) | 500 GB (SSD) | 500+ (SSD) |
| Graphics | Integrated graphics | Discrete video card | Discrete video card |
Additional Information
Some software companies, like Dassault Systeme’s SOLIDWORKS Corporation, also have unique recommended system requirements.
Software used in Curriculum
- ANSYS
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- MathWorks MATLAB
- Microsoft Office
- Minitab
- National Instruments LabVIEW
- PTC Mathcad
- SOLIDWORKS
Last updated: 7/11/2022