Laptop Minimum Specifications for Campus Computing – Guests, Students and Faculty
Campus Guest Speakers & Presenters
The minimum operating systems supported for both Windows and Mac portable workstations is outlined below:
- The minimum Windows-supported operating system version able to connect to the network is Windows 10, including its latest patches.
- The minimum MacBook supported operating system version able to connect to the network is Ventura 13.4.1.
Note
Both Windows 7 and 8 are no longer supported by the Office of Information Resource Technology.
The above minimum operating system requirements being installed will ensure presentation software such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams will be able to function as expected while connected to the event space technology.
The preferred display port connection for laptops is HDMI, HDMI cables along with the proper connectors for your device are the responsibility of the presenter to utilize the available projectors and presentation applications while on campus.
Antivirus program with the most up to date antivirus definitions installed.
In order to access the wireless connectivity during your presentation while on campus your laptop is required to have the capability to connect using the latest 802.11ac standard.
Student Laptop Recommendations
As students begin their college journey, technology will play a key role in that experience. A reliable, capable laptop computer can play a significant role in helping you achieve success. There are many options available price ranges vary depending on your selected hardware requirements… It can be a daunting task to ensure you are selecting the right one. Below are general guidelines to follow when purchasing a laptop.
Please keep in mind that as technology changes, it is also advisable to visit the developer of any specific software you plan to use heavily and check their recommended requirements.
General Studies
Laptops from reputable companies will be capable of handling the computer needs for most coursework.
Windows Computers – Must contain Windows 10 or above within its configuration.
Note
Windows versions 7 and 8 are no longer supported Microsoft operating systems.
Laptops must also contain end-point protection software such as Microsoft Windows Defender, Norton Symantec, or McAfee antivirus. Additional protection configurations should include enabling Windows built-in firewall and a version of malware defense such as Malwarebytes.
Productivity applications included in Microsoft’s office suite such as Microsoft Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Word will be necessary to complete various class lessons and projects assigned by professors.
Below are minimum hardware specifications for Windows 10 based laptops for general use.
| Budget | Mainstream | High-End | |
| CPU | Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 | Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 | Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 |
| Hard Drive | 250GB or higher | 512GB SSD or higher | 1024GB SSD or higher |
| Graphics | Integrated | Integrated | Dedicated |
| Display Port | HDMI | HDMI | HDMI |
| Memory | 8GB or higher | 16GB or higher | 16GB or higher |
Note
Chromebook laptops manufactured but not limited to by Google, Dell or Lenovo are not a currently supported device by FDU, and the purchasing of such devices should not be considered as they currently do not comply with FDU’s security and maintenance standards or policies.
Apple Mac
Apple laptops vary greatly in price, but below are two starting options to base your choice upon:
| Basic | Performance | |
| Model | MacBook Air 13″ MacBook Pro | MacBook Air 14″ or 16″ MacBook Pro |
| CPU | M1 or M2 | M2 Pro |
| Hard Drive | 256GB SSD or higher | 512GB SSD or higher |
| Graphics | Integrated | Integrated |
| Memory | 8GB or higher | 16GB or higher |
Multimedia, Engineering, & Video Programs
Multimedia and Engineering students rely heavily on graphics and processor-intensive software. Due to this, specifications for the laptops below are higher to satisfy the needs of such demanding software titles.
| Windows | Apple | |
| Model | MacBook Air 14″ or 16″ MacBook Pro | |
| CPU | Intel 8th Gen Core i5 (or better) AMD 3rd Gen Ryzen 5 (or better) | M2 Pro/Max |
| Hard Drive | 512GB SSD or higher | 1TB or higher |
| Graphics | Dedicated video card with 2GB of video memory (or higher) (4GB recommended for extensive Premiere Pro or AutoCAD use | Integrated |
| Memory | 8GB Minimum 16GB Recommended for HD Video Editing and Adobe After Effects use 32GB Recommended for 4k Editing | 16 GB or higher |
| Display | 1440 x 900 / 1280 x 1080 (or better) 1920 x 1080 Recommended for AutoCAD use | 1440 x 900 / 1280 x 1080 (or better) 1920 x 1080 Recommended for AutoCAD use |
Note
Autodesk 3DS Max is only for Windows based laptops and is not supported on Apple Devices.
If you are in a specialized academic program and unsure of what hardware will meet your technical needs, please speak with your academic advisor.
If you are in a specialized academic program and unsure of what hardware will meet your technical needs, please speak with your academic advisor.
Licensing for Microsoft Office 365 is offered by Fairleigh Dickinson University for use by current employees and students.
A request for technical consultation can be completed by visiting the link below. Locate the Create New SAMI Support Request tile; once the form has been completed, a support request will be created.
Computer Discount Programs
Fairleigh Dickinson University students are eligible for discounts on laptops from certain manufacturers.
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