Please note that there are, from time to time, some notices around campus from (former) architecture students who want to resell their computers. In general, this is not a good deal. The primary reason you should buy your own is that the warranty is not transferable. In other words, if something goes wrong, and you bought the computer from an individual rather than Dell, you are out of luck! Your ability to successfully complete the semester's work may be compromised. Also, every year computer prices go down and quality goes up. The specifications of this year's model of this year's computer is better than last year. For the same price, incoming freshmen are getting a faster CPU, a faster graphics card, and a flat panel LCD monitor is standard rather than an upgrade. The cost of the upgrades (those that are even available) would make the new computer less expensive than the used one. Make sure you follow the link to purchase the computer for ARCHITECTURE (and Interior Design, Digital, etc) STUDENTS!
Once you get your computer from Dell, unpack it to make sure:
- you get everything you ordered and
- it works.
ALL SOFTWARE PLACED ON YOUR NEW COMPUTER WILL BE ERASED DURING THE IMAGING PROCESS! DO NOT install any new software until AFTER your computer has been “imaged” with the NJIT Imaging Lab software at the College of Architecture and Design.
Please see Requirements & Recommendations for more detailed information about the hardware, software and supplies listed below.
Additional Hardware Requirements
Network Cable
In addition to the computer, you must provide your own network (“patch”) cable. Please be sure to obtain a 15-20 foot Category 5 (or higher) “straight” cable, NOT a “swapped” cable. This network cable is required for network connectivity for both imaging and the operation of the CAD/graphics applications.
Combination Lock
You will need to supply a combination lock for your desk to secure your computer in the studio. While only students assigned to a particular studio space will have access to that space, this will provide added protection for your equipment.
DVD+/-R / CD-R media
Because of the large files you can expect to create during your first semester (and throughout your studies at NJSOA), you may find it more convenient and cost effective to save (and backup) your files on DVD rather than on lower capacity CDs. You may purchase a spindle of 50-100 along with envelopes/sleeves after you arrive.
Optional Hardware Upgrades
If you choose to add options, there are a number of upgrades available depending on your budget. An increase in the size of your hard drive allows you to save more files. Your graphics card will support dual. Again, this is not required - it is a convenience for you when working with multiple programs. It is something you can easily add later too.
A good investment is an external hard drive to back up your data. You will find the investment in an external hard drive to be a good one as soon as you have a problem. Recreating your data is not pleasant!
Recommended Software & Supplies
Corel Draw Graphics Suite x4 (for Windows)
You will need Academic Corel Draw Graphics Suite x4. Again, DO NOT install the software until AFTER your computer is imaged at school, otherwise it will be erased! Because it is not immediately needed, you may want to wait to purchase this until you arrive. Make sure you purchase the Academic Edition for Windows (also referred to as the “Student and Teacher Edition”), which is generally offered at a significant discount.
Digital Cameras
Digital cameras will be used to photograph/document your work as well as to complete various projects. You are NOT required to purchase a digital camera; however, you may find it convenient to do so. The Littman Architecture Library has a few digital cameras available for student use, but please understand that there is heavy demand for this equipment and no guarantee that a camera will be available when you need one. If you do decide to purchase a camera, please plan on getting one with at least 6 megapixel resolution.
Suppliers
The New Jersey Institute of Technology and the New Jersey School of Architecture neither requires nor recommends any particular vendors for supplies, software or books. A list of potential sources is included in Requirements & Recommendations for student convenience. However, there are other sources available for the purchase of those items noted above.