Computer Requirements: 2012 Incoming Freshmen & Transfers:
UPDATE 1/13/12: Below is the information for Fall 2011 admittance. While this information is still accurate and current, we recommend incoming Freshman and Transfers hold off on purchasing equipment until the July/August time-frame. Adobe is expected to release the new Adobe Creative Suite 6.0 Design Premium and historically Apple will release the newest model laptops around this time as well. Please check back here often, we will update the information on this page as the new releases and recommendations become available.
Students entering the Department of Art and Design in the Graphic Design(GD) and Photography(PH) concentrations are required to purchase Apple Macintosh laptop computers (there is no requirement for the studio concentration however it is highly recommended). We have selected specific configurations that best suit the coursework you will be taking. The department has arranged special academic pricing for these computers that meet the specifications for the demanding applications taught in the program.
Purchasing is accomplished through the Cal Poly El Corral Bookstore. Those wishing to view the models can also visit any of the Apple Retail Stores. Note that some stores may not have in stock these specific custom configurations. You should take a copy of the specific requirements to ensure proper configuration.
Option 1 - Recommended Baseline Model:
- 15.4 inch MacBook Pro
- 2.0 GHz quad-core Intel Core i7
- 1440 x 900 pixels
- 4GB 1333Mhz memory
- 500GB hard drive
- 8x double-layer Super Drive
- Intel HD Graphics 3000 + AMD Radeon HD 6490M (w/ 256MB VRAM)
- Optional: AppleCare Warranty Protection Plan - $239
(Approximate cost with educational discount: $1,699.00 + $239 for AppleCare)
Contact El Corral Bookstore directly (805.756.5310) for special packages, offers and lastest pricing.
Option 2 - Recommended Upgraded Model:
(Note: This model comes with an upgraded processor, larger hard drive, and a higher performance video card for an additional $300)
- 15.4 inch MacBook Pro
- 2.2 GHz quad-core Intel Core i7
- 1440 x 900 pixels
- 4GB 1333MHz memory
- 750GB hard drive
- 8x double-layer Super Drive
- Intel HD Graphics 3000 + AMD Radeon HD 6750M (w/ 1GB VRAM)
- Optional: AppleCare Warranty Protection Plan - $239
(Approximate cost with educational discount: $1,999.00 + $239 for AppleCare)
Contact El Corral Bookstore directly (805.756.5310) for special packages, offers and lastest pricing.
Software Specifications - Required (Graphic Design, Photo):
Adobe Creative Suite 5.5 Design Premium Student Edition
- Acrobat X Professional
- Illustrator CS5
- InDesign CS5.5
- Photoshop CS5
- Dreamweaver CS5.5
- Fireworks CS5
- Flash Professional CS5.5
- Flash Catalyst CS5.5
- Bridge CS5
- Device Central CS5.5
(Approximate cost with educational discount: $359)
Direct from El Corral Bookstore this product is more than 80% off retail price for students!
Microsoft Office 2011 Academic Edition
- Word 2011
- Excel 2011
- PowerPoint 2011
- Outlook 2011
(Approximate cost with educational discount: $79.00. NOTE: Office 2011 for Mac is available for reduced pricing for current Cal Poly students with a valid student ID. New students will be able to purchase this discounted software beginning on the first day of classes.)
Contact El Corral Bookstore directly (805.756.5310)
Recommended Software, Accessories, and Peripherals
Although not strictly required, we recommend the following software upgrade and accessories and peripherals.
Recommended Software and Font Packages:
Adobe Type Classic or Adobe Font Folio Education Edition
While the MacBook Pro and Adobe Creative Suite comes with many fonts, students in Graphic Design may want a larger selection of typefaces. Adobe Type Classic or Adobe Font Folio is recommended packages to add to your font library. Approximate cost is $150.
Recommended Accessories:
An external USB (or wireless) mouse
Graphics programs require high levels of precision, and the touch pads built into laptops are rarely suitable for long-term work. For extra portability, get a mouse that has a retractable (or no) cord. Get only an optical or laser mouse as mechanical mice have a tendency to get jammed by dust and dirt.
A USB flash drive
This small device will help you transfer files from one computer to another quickly and efficiently. 4GB should be sufficient, although larger sizes are available.
A protective case or backpack
Keep your laptop protected from minor drops, scratches, and weather using a protective case that wraps snugly around the machine and has hard material to protect your computer.
A security lock and cable
All laptops incorporate a standard security port that accept a wide range of locks and cables to secure your investment either in the dorms or in studios.
Peripherals to Consider:
Ink jet Printer
A printer will allow you to print out your projects in black and white and color. Choose a printer that uses the USB interface for maximum compatibility. Although we do not recommend a specific model, we do encourage students to purchase from a major manufacturer such as Epson, Canon, HP or Lexmark. When choosing a printer, check the price of ink and media as those can vary significantly from model to model (Please note: the Department does provide high-end specialty printers and printing resources for both Graphic Design and Photo students. Printing hours vary between quarters and Print Cards are sold in the El Corral Bookstore for reduced cost per-page printing in Department labs).
Flatbed Scanner/Digital Camera
These optional peripherals are extremely helpful in getting imagery into your computer. The Department of Art and Design does have cameras available for checkout, and scanners in the labs, however some students like to have their own equipment for use at a moment’s notice.
Warranties
Because of the large financial investment you will be making, we recommend that all students investigate and are comfortable with their level of warranty service and insurance. We strongly recommend purchasing the Apple Care Protection Plan along with your laptop. This plan extends your standard warranty to three years, however it does not cover accidental damage. Please read carefully the Terms and Conditions in order to decide if this is enough coverage for your needs.
Insurance
In addition to warranty service, most users will wish to have their computer covered under an insurance policy in the event of accidental damage or theft. Please consult your insurance provider (i.e. homeowners insurance) for information regarding coverage.
Theft Prevention
There are numerous products available to assist you in recovering a laptop (and your data) should your equipment be stolen. While pne of the main benefits of a laptop is portability, it also makes them a target for theft. We recommend using anti-theft software to help track and recover stolen laptops. We recommend the LoJack for Laptop 3-year service plan for this purpose, more information can be found here: Absolute Software LoJack for Laptop (HTML)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really have to purchase a laptop computer?
Yes. Many Graphic Design and photography classes and studios directly integrate computing technology in the classroom and in many cases students are expected to bring their laptops to class to work on assignments. While the Department of Art and Design does have a computer lab, this lab is predominantly for teaching specialized applications that are not readily available for students. Consequently the Art and Design lab has limited availability for general use, which means your laptop may be the only way to complete assignments.
What if I want to purchase a different brand or model of computer?
We have selected a computer that is capable of running the professional software used by the discipline. This computer is also compatible with the University infrastructure (network, etc.) and is designed with professional use in mind. Students who purchase an alternate computer will not be eligible to receive technical support from our staff. This computer is also configured to have the longest possible longevity within the discipline of Graphic Design. Although no computer lasts forever, the machine we have selected will serve you well into the future.
What sort of support will I receive at the Department of Art and Design?
The Department of Art and Design provides technical support for department-approved laptops. We provide the following services:
- Connecting to the University network, servers, and printers.
- Required software installation
(It is very important to note that the Department Staff do not provide instructional support on HOW to use software. We will only assist with installation and troubleshooting. Instructional support is provided through your faculty.) - Operating System maintenance and support
- Using the Department computer lab
It is also important to note that the Department cannot provide hardware support. If there are physical problems with your hardware, you will need to contact the manufacturer or authorized service center. Because we are not certified to fix hardware, we will void any warranty you have.
What about upgrades/options?
Here is a short list of upgrades/components and what benefit they serve:
Memory/RAM
This is probably the single best investment in the performance of your computer. RAM affects your ability to run multiple programs simultaneously and can greatly improve the responsiveness of your computer. This upgrade should be chosen over others if your budget allows. 4GB is the minimum, but 8GB will serve you well in the future.
Screen Size
A larger screen generally will have a higher display resolution, this will provide the user a larger viewable and working area which will increase productivity. A larger screen is essential for professional design tools in order to access necessary panels, settings, etc while still viewing your work.
Hard Disk/Storage
The larger the hard disk, the more data you can store on your computer. Keep in mind that general documents such as papers, spreadsheets and email do not take up very much space. Movies, RAW photos, videos and large graphic files tend to eat up the bulk of your storage. We have required a hard drive which will provide ample storage for your projects and assignments. Keep in mind that storage can always be extended by purchasing an external hard disk at a later date. This is also a useful investment to back-up your files.
Processor
The processor is the ‘brains’ of your computer and is involved in every aspect of its operation. Although getting the fastest processor will certainly make your computer faster, there are many aspects of computer use that are not bound by the speed of the processor, so this is not always the most economical upgrade. Certainly if you have the budget, it never hurts to make your processor faster (if you have the choice), however, adding Memory (RAM) will usually result in better bang for the buck.
What to do before you arrive
- Purchase all the necessary hardware and software as required for the Graphic Design and Photography concentrations.
- Become familiar with the basic operation of your computer. Power up, charging the battery, using media, etc.
- Consult the tutorials for your operating system. You will find it beneficial to be familiar with basic operations such as opening applications, copying files, making CDs, and using a web browser.
- Install the necessary software on your computer following the manufacturers instructions.
- Look into purchasing some helpful accessories and/or peripherals.
Contact Information:
If you have questions, please feel free to contact the Department of Art and Design.
Alden Merchant
IT Consultant & DLAN Coordinator
amerchant@calpoly.edu
805.756.1566
Kathryn E. McCormick
Graphic Design
kmccormi@calpoly.edu
805.756.1164
Robert Howell
Photography and Digital Imagery
rhowell@calpoly.edu
805.756.2772
Art and Design Department Office
artdesign@calpoly.edu
805.756.1148