GVSU student computer recommendation
Student Computer Recommendation
for the 2005-2006 Academic year
GVSU Art and Design Department
Purchasing your own computer is not required for art or design majors. However, if you plan to purchase a computer it makes sense to purchase one that can be used for work in the department. Below are our recommendations.
Apple macintosh computers are the predominate platform for professional visual practice. The same software is available on other platforms, but instruction in the department is 100% on Apple Macintosh. Portable computers allow use in multiple locations: home, Art Department, Library, and in other non-art courses. Because of this we recommend the portable option. If you prefer to get a computer solely for use in your residence then desktop models would be fine. We do recommend that these be new enough to run the OsX operating system. these include the Mac Mini, Imac, G5, Emac, and earlier G4 models.
Educational discounts are available for hardware and software. This includes online vendors such as Apple (http://www.apple.com/education) as well as retail stores including the GVSU bookstore which has student prices on software.
General Guide
The newer the machine and software, the longer use value.
Minimum package:
used g3 ibook (500mhz or more), 256 mb ram, Os X
photoshop 7 and illustrator 9
Optimum package:
newest g4 powerbook, 500mb ram, comes with Os X
Wireless network card (airport)
adobe creative suite 2 ($399 educational price- GVSU bookstore 6/1/2005)
ipod or firewire external hard drive
digital camera (5 megapixel)Error: this should not happen
You may need additional equipment and software for advanced functions or classes.
Additional software that is included on department computers:
Iview Multimedia
Microsoft Office
Dreamweaver MX
Flash MX
Freehand MX
Fireworks MX
Form Z
- External hard drives come in 2 case sizes and 2 cable systems. Hard Drives in the smaller cases or Ipods are good for temporary storage and transferring files from one computer to another and are easy to cary around. They come in disk sizes from 5 gigabytes to 40 gigabytes. Hard Drives in the larger cases can be used for temporary storage and transferring files, but also can be used for longer term archiving of files. They are typically larger than 40 gigabytes. All Art Department computers give ready access to either firewire or usb connections.Cameras that use Compact Flash memory are the most compatible for use with department machines, but any camera with current cable (usb) connection will work.
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- tech guides last edited on 7 January 2006 at 1:37 pm by 148.61.86.67
