Are you looking to buy a new computer for your courses? You’re in the right place. Here are some recommendations to help you decide.
Check your specs
The major specifications to take into account when purchasing a computer are the hard drive space, the memory (or RAM), and the processor speed. Below we’ve outlined how to check the specs of your computer, as well as recommended specs for general use and specific academic programs.
To check the specifications of your current computer follow the steps below:
Windows: Click on the Start Menu and type “About”. Open the “About this PC” result to see your Processor and RAM/Memory information. To find your hard drive size click the Start Menu, type “Storage”, and open the Storage Settings result.
Mac: Hold down the Option key, then click on the Apple Menu in the top left, then choose “System Information”. On the Hardware tab you’ll see information on your Chip (Processor) and Memory (RAM). The Storage tab will give you information about your hard drive.
Recommended specs
Below are the recommended specs for both Macintosh and Windows based computers:
Macintosh laptop computer:
- MacBook with an M series processor with:
- 16GB of memory (RAM)
- 256GB storage
- Built-in or USB webcam
Windows laptop computer:
- Dell Latitude 3000/5000 series (or like model from another brand, e.g., Asus, HP, Lenovo, Microsoft, etc.) with:
- Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor
- 16GB of memory (RAM)
- 256GB Solid State Drive (SSD)
- Built-in or USB webcam
Vermont State University recommendations
Students attending Vermont State University must own a laptop that meets or exceeds the minimum specifications above.
For students within the Engineering departments, including Construction Management, a Windows laptop is required. That laptop should have a 500 GB Solid State Drive and 32GB of memory is recommended. While optional, an Intel i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 processor is also recommended. Additional USB ports or a hub is strongly encouraged.
For students within the Computer Information Systems, Software Engineering, and Information Technology programs, Windows, Linux or MacOS machines are acceptable. Students in these programs, regardless of the OS choice, should have computers with 32 GB of memory.
Community College of Vermont recommendations
CCV does not require students to have a laptop, but does adhere to the recommended specifications above. These specifications may differ depending on your area of study, so you may wish to check with your advisor to ensure your computer will meet the standards of that particular program.
For students in medical fields
Students in medical fields of study, such as Nursing and Dental Hygiene, are required to use the Respondus LockDown Browser when taking tests and exams. Lockdown is not supported on ChromeOS or iOS, so you are required to use either a Windows or MacOS laptop. Chromebooks, iPads, or other tablets are not supported.
IT support
If you have specific questions about purchasing a new device you can contact your local Helpdesk directly, or open a ServiceDesk ticket.