Computer Specifications for Freshman Entering Fall 2007
Date Updated: April 24th, 2007
All programs in the College of Fine and Applied Arts are computer intensive. Currently, students are requested to have a laptop computer for each of the programs and some programs plan to require the laptop. A docking station for the laptop can be purchased for the dormitory. The technology is advancing so rapidly, it is difficult to anticipate software and hardware changes during the four year college experience. While these specifications are developed to ensure maximum viability of computers for the college experience, software upgrades may drive more sophisticated hardware requirements and may require upgrades or replacements of the computers prior to completing the degree. Below you will find specifications for computers that will provide maximum longevity for students entering Appalachian State University.
For more information please see the Academic Computing Services Student Computing Hardware Levels Web page.
Dell recommended personal computer purchase site designed for Appstate
Type/Brand |
Specifications (Minimum) |
Specifications (Recommended) |
Windows-Based,
Desktop |
- Windows XP or Vista**
- Intel Pentium 4 or AMD Equivalent
- 1.0 GB RAM
- 80 GB Hard Drive
- 64 MB Graphics Card
- 17 Inch Monitor
- DVD ROM Drive
|
- Windows XP or Vista**
- Intel® Core 2 DuoTM or AMD equivalent
- 2.0 GB RAM
- 80 GB Hard Drive
- 128 MB Graphics Card
- 19 Inch Monitor
- DVD/RW+ Drive
|
Windows-Based,
Laptop |
- Windows XP or Vista**
- Intel® Core DuoTM or AMD Equivalent
- 1.0 GB RAM
- 80 GB Hard Drive
- 64 MB Graphics Card
- Largest monitor possible
- Wireless networking
- DVD ROM Drive
|
- Windows XP or Vista**
- Intel® Core 2 DuoTM or AMD Equivalent
- 2.0 GB RAM
- 80 GB Hard Drive
- 128 MB Graphics Card
- Largest monitor possible
- Wireless networking
- DVD/RW+ Drive
|
Apple Macintosh,
Desktop |
- Mac OS X Tiger
- Intel® Core DuoTM
- 1.0 GB RAM
- 80 GB Hard Drive
- 64 MB Graphics Card
- 17 Inch Monitor
- DVD ROM Drive
|
- Mac OS X Tiger
- Intel® Core 2 DuoTM
- 2.0 GB RAM
- 120 GB Hard Drive
- 128 MB Graphics Card
- 20 Inch Monitor
- DVD/RW+ Drive
|
Apple Macintosh,
Laptop |
- Mac OS X Tiger
- Intel® Core DuoTM
- 1.0 GB RAM
- 80 GB Hard Drive
- 64 MB Graphics Card
- Largest monitor possible
- Wireless networking
- DVD ROM Drive
|
- Mac OS X Tiger
- Intel® Core 2 DuoTM
- 1.0 GB RAM
- 120 GB Hard Drive
- 128 MB Graphics Card
- Largest monitor possible
- Wireless networking
- DVD/RW+ Drive
|
| Any brand |
100 GB or greater USB or Firewire Portable Hard Drive |
| Any brand* |
1.0 GB or greater USB thumb-sized storage device |
*A significantly greater amount of problems have been experienced with Lexar brand USB thumb-sized storage devices.
**Microsoft Windows Vista not currently supported on campus machines. |
