What Computer does the College recommend?

The below table outlines the minimum computer specifications you need when:

  • buying a computer for you coursework,

  • checking if your home computer can run the software needed for your coursework, or

  • checking if you have the Internet bandwidth needed for video conferencing.

We recommend a PC or Mac laptop (not Chromebook). We don’t recommend specific brands or models given there are so many changing options & deals available at retailers.

Minimum Specifications

We recommend the following minimum computer specifications:

Hardware

Minimum Specifications

Operating System

Windows 11

MacOS Monterey

Processor

Intel Core i5 (11th Gen or newer) or AMD Ryzen 5 (5000 series or newer)

RAM

8GB (16GB is preferable for smoother multitasking)

Storage

500GB SSD recommended for performance

Display

1024 x 768

1920 x 1080 for graphic design & video rendering

Graphics

Integrated graphics or dedicated GPU with at least 2GB VRAM

At least 4GB VRAM for graphic design & video rendering

Required peripherals

Webcam

Headphones with built-in microphone

Browser

Google Chrome

We recommend the following minimum Internet bandwidth specifications to support your online coursework & online classroom video & audio conferencing when using Blackboard or Zoom.

Use

Recommended Bandwidth

1080p HD Video

Receiving requires minimum of 5mbps (up/down)

Sending requires minimum of 3.0mbps (up/down)

720p HD Video

Receiving & sending requires minimum of 3mbps (up/down)

Audio

60-80kbps

Click here to test your Internet upload & download speeds.

What if my Computer doesn’t meet these specs?

Students using Chromebooks, iPads, Android Tablets or other devices with lower specifications should still be able to access their resources online using a browser, or by downloading apps from Google Play or iTunes. We recommend that you use a keyboard with your tablet.

We also provide a virtual desktop to access the full application version of Microsoft Office 365. These desktops are hosted in the cloud & only require a working computer with a browser. Click here for more information about the General Virtual Desktop. 

Need More Help?

Click here for information on how we can help get you access to a Computer or Internet.