Computer Specifications

All programs in the Department of Technology are computer intensive. Currently, students are requested to have a laptop computer for each of the programs and some programs 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.

Appalachian State University provides computer technical support to students, faculty, and staff: support.appstate.edu

Dell™ and Apple™ offer Appalachian State University Students with purchasing options.

Purchases may be made through the Appalachian State Bookstore and Computer shop.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Windows XP
  • Intel® Core 2 Duo™ or AMD equivalent
  • 2.0 GB RAM
  • 250 GB Hard Drive
  • 128 MB Graphics Card
  • 17 Inch Monitor
  • DVD-ROM Drive

Recommended Requirements:

  • Windows XP
  • Intel® Core 2 Duo™ or AMD equivalent
  • 3.0 GB RAM
  • 250 GB Hard Drive
  • 256 MB Graphics Card
  • 19 Inch Monitor or Larger
  • DVD/RW+ Drive
 

Programs Affected:

Appropriate Technology, Building Science, Interior Design, Industrial Design, Technology Education

Minimum Requirements:

  • Windows XP
  • Intel® Core 2 Duo™ or AMD equivalent
  • 2.0 GB RAM
  • 250GB Hard Drive
  • 128 MB Graphics Card
  • Monitor Size as Desired (portability is a consideration)
  • Wireless networking
  • DVD-ROM Drive

Recommended Requirements:

  • Windows XP
  • Intel® Core 2 Duo™ or AMD equivalent
  • 3.0 GB RAM
  • 250 GB Hard Drive
  • 256 MB Graphics Card
  • Monitor Size as Desired (portability is a consideration)
  • Wireless networking
  • DVD/RW+ Drive
 

Programs Affected:

Appropriate Technology, Technology Education (recommended)
Building Science, Interior Design, Industrial Design (required)

Minimum Requirements:

  • Mac OS X Leopard
  • Intel® Core 2 Duo™
  • 3.0 GB RAM
  • 250 GB Hard Drive
  • 128 MB Graphics Card
  • 17 Inch Monitor
  • Wireless networking
  • DVD-ROM Drive

Recommended Requirements:

  • Mac OS X Leopard
  • Intel® Core 2 Duo™
  • 4.0 GB RAM
  • 500 GB Hard Drive
  • 256 MB Graphics Card
  • 20 Inch Monitor or Larger
  • DVD/RW+ Drive
 

Programs Affected:

Graphic Arts & Imaging Technology, Technical Photography

Minimum Requirements:

  • Mac OS X Leopard
  • Intel® Core 2 Duo™
  • 3.0 GB RAM
  • 250 GB Hard Drive
  • 128 MB Graphics Card
  • Monitor Size as Desired (portability is a consideration)
  • Wireless networking
  • DVD-ROM Drive

Recommended Requirements:

  • Mac OS X Leopard
  • Intel® Core 2 Duo™
  • 4.0 GB RAM
  • 500 GB Hard Drive
  • 256 MB Graphics Card
  • Monitor Size as Desired (portability is a consideration)
  • Wireless networking
  • DVD/RW+ Drive
 

Programs Affected:

Graphic Arts & Imaging Technology, Technical Photography (required)

Recommendations:

  • Any Brand | 100 GB or greater USB or Firewire Portable Hard Drive †
  • Any Brand | 6.0 GB or greater USB thumb-sized storage device ‡
 

Programs Affected:

Graphic Arts & Imaging Technology †
All Programs ‡