Second-year students are encouraged to purchase a laptop from the configurations listed below.
Here are the current recommended specifications
Minimum Recommended Configuration: 15" MacBook Pro
— 2.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo w/
256
MB of VRAM
—
200
GB hard drive
— Double - layer Superdrive (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)
— 2 GB of RAM
Recommended Configuration: 15" MacBook Pro
— 2.
5
GHz Intel Core Duo w/
512
MB of VRAM
—
250
GB hard drive
— Double - layer Superdrive (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)
— 2 GB of RAM
Extended Configuration: 17" MacBook Pro
— 2.
5
GHz Intel Core Duo w/
512
MB of VRAM
—
250
GB hard drive
—
Double
- layer
Superdrive (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)
— 2 GB of RAM
All configurations are available the Computer Store. http://computerstore.psu.edu/arch/recommend06.htm
Students who choose to buy one of the computers recommended above are encouraged to wait as long as possible before making their purchases. This is because Apple may introduce new models or versions of the MacBook or additional discounts. Keep in mind that it may take anywhere from a couple of days to a week to receive your laptop from the time you placed the order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between 2.4 and 2.5 GHz?
A: 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz are processor speeds, or how fast a processor can compute. The higher the number the faster it can perform calculations to do every day tasks. However, faster processor speed does not provide the capacity to perform more, just the same in less time. In practical terms, this means that a filter taking 80 seconds to apply in PhotoShop using a 2.4 GHz processor may take only 60 seconds using a 2.5 GHz processor (if everything else is equal). Processor speed will not help if the file is too big or the task is too complex...these are tasks for RAM (Memory). The actual difference between 2.4 and 2.5 isn't much, except that the 2.4 GHz model comes with only 256 MB of VRAM (Video Memory) while the 2.5 model comes with 512 MB of VRAM.
Q: What is VRAM?
A: Video memory (VRAM) is a special form of memory (RAM) set aside to store and access image data. The more VRAM, the faster the laptop can display images, especially big ones. VRAM is important when dealing with the large images often used while working on various assignments. VRAM will play an important role in displaying rendered images from FormZ and Photoshop files. The greater the amount of VRAM, the more colors and/or greater the resolution you can display. For example, 128 MB of VRAM is necessary to drive the 30" Apple Cinema Display.
Q: What is RAM?
A: RAM (Memory) dictates how much a computer can do at once as well as the size of the task it can perform. If cost requires a sacrifice between memory and something else, such as processor speed, memory is ultimately more important. Using the example of PhotoShop again, RAM will enable you to apply and run a filter without getting a memory error. In the long run, RAM will be more important than a slightly faster processor. If you must choose between the faster processor and more RAM, go with more RAM.
1 GB of RAM will be adequate for most models, and there is no real performance increase with FormZ. More RAM can always be added later.
CAUTION: If you are planning to add memory later, make sure that it has been certified by Apple to work with your MacBook Pro. Although the Apple-certified RAM is more expensive, generic RAM has been known to cause system instability.
Q: What is a hard drive?
A: This is the physical disk where your applications and data are stored. More is better, especially if you have music files or want to work with movies. Ex. Generally, a 5 minute movie will be between 1-2GB, 10 minute movie 3-5GB, and 30 minute movie 8-12 GB. Be mindful of the type of files you'll be making and size of the hard drive of the computer at the time of purchase.
Q: What is the difference between DVD-ROM and DVD±RW?
A: A DVD-ROM will only read DVDs. A DVD±RW will read and write (burn) DVDs. Burning to DVD is slow but a DVD (4.7GB) holds much more data than a CD (700MB). All models of the recommended laptop include CD-RW capability.
Q: Why is the warranty only 3 years when I may have the laptop for 4 years?
A: Laptops are substantially more fragile than desktops, and having the three year warranty will pay for itself should your machine get damaged during the covered period, especially if something happens to your screen. There will be an optional fourth year of coverage but at more cost.(For more info contact Apple or the Computer Store) If you do not plan to purchase another computer during your Fifth Year, the extra year of coverage is highly encouraged. However, students may opt for the 3-year warranty knowing that they will purchase a new computer their final year before graduating. Doing so would allow you to renew your technology during your most computer intensive year as well as take advantage of less expensive student hardware and software prices before entering the job market.
Q: Why would I consider purchasing....
...an external drive?
An external drive will allow you to back up important files and transport large files easily between University computers, Architecture computers and your laptop. An iPod (any model) is most highly recommended due to its multiple functionality as an external drive, a music device, or image storage device, as well as its larger storage capacity. If price is a concern, 1 GB flash drives are available for less than $100 from the Computer Store. Some sort of backup device is essential to protect your data.
...an external mouse?
This device will allow you to have finer control over the cursor than the laptop's trackpad, which will be critical to the work you will do in studio. An inexpensive external mouse is highly recommended.
...an inexpensive inkjet printer?
Consumer-level ink jet printers are very convenient to have if you sometimes work in your dorm room or apartment. The department provides inexpensive laser and color laser printing, as well as large format printing, on a cost recovery basis. Some form of convenience printing in your residence is highly recommended.
...a spindle of recordable media (CD-Rs or DVD-Rs?
Burning files to DVD or CD will allow you to archive important information as well as easily share information with others without relying on the presence of a network. Buying in quality is less expensive in the long run, so a spindle of either is highly recommended.
You should be aware of the differences between various formats of DVD-Rs. Macintosh help provides the following summary:
- DVD-R discs hold about 4.7 GB of information. You can burn files on a DVD-R disc using the Apple SuperDrive. DVD-R discs are not reusable; you can burn files on them only once.
- DVD+R is an alternate DVD Recordable write-once format. Some DVD drives or applications may not support recording to this disc format.
- DVD-RW discs hold about 4.7 GB of information on each side. If you have an Apple SuperDrive, you can read information on these discs, but you can't burn files on them using Mac OS X. DVD-RW discs are reusable: you can burn files on them, erase them, and then burn again (if you have an application that is compatible).
- DVD+RW is an alternate DVD ReWritable format intended to replace the capabilities of DVD-RW and DVD-RAM and provide higher compatibility with set-top players. Some DVD drives or applications may not support recording to this disc format.
- CD-RW discs come in normal and high-speed formats. You can burn files on CD-RW discs using the Combo drive (or another supported CD burner). CD-RW discs are reusable: you can burn files on them, erase them, and then burn again.
- CD-R discs come in two types. One holds 74 minutes of audio, or about 650 MB of information. The other holds 80 minutes of audio, or about 700 MB of information. You can burn CD-R discs using the Combo drive (or another supported CD burner).
For recording audio CDs, it is best to use CD-R discs because most standard audio CD players cannot read CD-RW discs. For longer-term storage and reliability, use CD-R discs.
...a neoprene laptop sleeve
Carrying your laptop around in a sleeve will provide some cushion as it travels to and from studio. Depending on how you plan to carry your laptop, a neoprene sleeve may be a good investment.
...a digital camera
A digital camera will allow you to quickly incorporate your own pictures into your assignments. There are currently no recommendations for brand or model except that the camera should at be least 4 megapixels and use media compatible with the Architecture Department systems. Fortunately, this currently includes every brand except for Olympus. Keep in mind that architectural photography frequently requires the use of wide-angle lenses. Because the light-sensing surface of most digital cameras is smaller than that of 35mm film, digital cameras often have a narrower field of view than most architects would prefer. We recommend you discuss your needs with a knowledgeable photographer, other students, or a camera store employee before making a purchase. Media Technology and Support Services at Penn State provides loaner cameras that Penn State students may sign out. See http://www.libraries.psu.edu/mtss/services/poolDigitalCameras.html The purchase of a digital camera is recommended prior to your semester in Rome.
...an 8x11 scanner or all-in-one printer/scanner/fax
While there are scanners available within the Stuckeman building and in various labs around campus, having a scanner at your residence may also be convenient. You may wish to look at all-in-one options to take care of both small scale scanning and printing needs.
...backpack or bag specifically designed for laptops
Most of these have a pocket or section specifically for a laptop. Using such a bag will help prevent books from crushing your laptop during transit between buildings. A backpack or bag is recommended.
...a modem
For those that need to connect to the internet at home via the phone line, you will need to purchase a USB modem. Due to the fact that modem's will no longer be built-in to the hardware of the MacBook Pro.
Q: What do I do if I cannot afford a laptop?
A: If you are unable to afford a laptop but wish to participate, Apples does offer a leasing program where payments can be spread out over time. Because the purchase of a laptop is a requirement for Architecture students, you can use student loans to purchase a computer.
Q: Won't the laptop be too old when I get to fifth-year?
A: Laptops have an anticipated useful life of 3 years. However, purchasing another laptop for fifth year is not mandatory. It will be possible to complete the program on the laptop purchased in Second Year. You may decide to purchase a newer laptop prior to your Fifth Year, but it will not be necessary to do so. However, it may be a good idea to purchase a new laptop prior to graduating so that you can take advantage of the student discount.
Q: Is there a trade up or trade in program for my fifth- year to get a new laptop?
A: No, but other schools with computer requirements have discovered that eBay is a useful outlet for used computer equipment. Money from the sale could be folded back into another purchase.
Q: Why does Penn State recommend a Mac when the industry uses AutoCAD, which won't run on a Mac?
The Architecture curriculum is built around design theory and not around learning to use specific software tools. Skills that you learn will be transferable to whichever tool you will eventually use in a work situation. There are also public labs in the building and on campus where AutoCad is available for student use. Macs were determined to meet the usability and portability needs of the curriculum, and for other reasons (see below).
Q: Do I need to purchase the specified equipment or can I go with another system?
A: There are two main platforms for laptops: Windows and Macintosh. Both platforms will run Microsoft Office, and all necessary graphics software commonly used by architecture students. The Department of Architecture pioneered the use of 3D representation techniques in the Architecture studio based on Apple computers when that was the only available resource for such endeavors. The specifications were put in place based on the Department's long standing history and familiarity with Apple computers, the faculty's expertise with them, the fact that the Department's computer networks and resources are configured and tested to work with Macs, and that they have less virus, spyware, or maintenance issues. If you bring a Windows laptop, expect to be more self-taught than your classmates, and be ready to find alternatives if your laptop does not work with Departmental resources. In other words, the department cannot guarantee the same level of connectivity and service with Windows laptops as we can with Macs.
Q: Why can't I get a less expensive laptop or a desktop?
A: A less expensive laptop, such as an iBook, won't see you through Second to Fifth-year. An iBook compared to a MacBook Pro lacks in rendering speed, graphics display, and has an overall slower power performance. A desktop will not allow you to take part in architecture's mobile curriculum.
Q: I am an entering Freshman. Should I purchase a laptop?
A: Probably Not. There is no curricular need for you to have a laptop and there are advantages should you wait until before your second year. That being said, if you have an old computer, you may still wish to bring it in to use within your living area for general coursework. Access to computers is also available for first-year students via the ITS public labs in the Stuckeman Building and across campus.
Q: Can two or more students share the same laptop?
A: No. Each student must have mobile computing capability as well as access to computing within his/her own studio space.
Q: Can I use the computer labs within the Stuckeman Building rather than purchase my own?
A: No. There will be multiple classes in these labs so access will be limited. Each student must have mobile computing capability as well as access to computing within his/her own studio space.
Q: Where do I purchase my hardware and software?
A: You can purchase your laptop and peripherals anywhere you wish. Purchasing from the Penn State Computer Store at http://computerstore.psu.edu/arch/recommend06.htm will ensure that you receive the lowest price on hardware.
Q: Will I be required to purchase more software later in my academic career?
A: Students will need to purchase all software beyond FormZ that they wish to use in their coursework. The best way to do this is through the on-campus Computer Store. It is still too early to tell whether purchasing an upgrade will be necessary within the four years you will be using your computer and software.
Q: Do I need insurance?
A: We recommend coverage under renter's or home owner's insurance, either yours or your parents'. You may need to declare your computer to include it in your coverage. http://www.safeware.com also provides laptop insurance.
Q. When will I need my computer equipment?
A: You will need it the second week of your second-year. The department recommends waiting until the Apple Back to School sale is announced (to be announced in July), then ordering through the Penn State Computer Store for an additional discount. Make sure you check estimated delivery times and order soon enough that you will receive your laptop before you go back to Penn State.
Q: Where do I set up my computer when I get it?
A: There will be an orientation session held at the beginning of fall semester to show you how to connect to Departmental and University Resources as well as install any provided software.
Q: Will my computer be safe in my studio?
A: Although access control is provided to the building, we highly recommend that each student install the recommended notebook lock. Additionally, each student is provided with a locker. Students expecting to be away from their studio space for some time should take the precaution and lock their laptop away.
Q: I heard that the new Intel Macintoshes are capable of running Windows as an Operating System.
A: It is true that the new Intel Macintoshes are capable of running Windows as an Operating System, and tests have shown that these systems are capable of running AutoCad, 3D Studio Max, and other programs Architecture students may need. However, this is a new technology and often not as stable as running a traditional Windows machine. Additionally, Apple makes no guarantee that there will be any support, or continued development of this feature. Students choosing to run Windows on an Intel Macintosh may certainly do so, but will receive limited support from the Staff on the Windows portion of their Apple computer."
Q: If I install Windows on my MacBook Pro, will that partition of OS be supported?
A: Although the user community has found solutions for running Windows on the Intel Macs, at this stage the results are too unstable to be recommended in a deadline-driven environment. If you decide to investigate this solution yourself, the department and college can offer no Windows support, whether for installation, troubleshooting, or connectivity with departmental resources. While this may change in the future once a Windows solution matures, you should not make your laptop decision based on the assumption that there will be support.
Q: I have more questions. Whom should I contact?
A: Contact Frank Moreno (frm102@psu.edu , 814.863.7175) in the Stuckeman Lab.
