A computer pruchase is not required to attend KGCOE.  However, if you do want to bring your own, here are some things to think about before purchasing.

Operating System – Windows or Mac (Apple)
This is largely a personal preference. Most of the advanced applications that students work with will be used on lab computers and not their personal systems, so the main concern here is that they have the latest version of Microsoft Office. (Office 2007 (windows); Office 2004 (Mac). Stick to either Windows XP Professional (this will be hard to find) or Vista Home Premium or better (ultimate).

Laptop or Desktop
Laptops are great for portability and will run many of today’s computer applications. There is good coverage on campus for wireless networking. Desktops give you more power for the money. They generally have a faster CPU, and are capable of more internal devices. They are also more upgradeable. It is really a personal choice.

3.0+ gig CPU
Faster is generally better. Look at the fastest CPU speed and drop back one or two steps. Many students have purchased systems with both INTEL and AMD CPU’s. The AMD processors are a bit cheaper and the performance is comparable to the INTEL chip. There are few if any compatibility issues.

Memory
80 -120+ gig hard disk. A minimum of 1 GB of RAM, 2 GB is better. You generally save money and installation costs if you purchase extra memory when you order your system.

DVD/CD
A DVD writer would be very helpful for data storage; music files etc. DVD writers also read and write CD images as well. DVDs will hold over 7 CDs worth of data. The newer type DVDs will be able to hold 14 CDs worth of data.

Removable Media
USB Flash drive (pen/thumb drive) 256MB or larger (consider getting 2)

Monitor
A 17” or 19” flat panel is a real space saver and offers excellent resolution. If you buy a standard CRT, look for one with a pixel spacing of .26 or less.

Network
10/100 and Wifi (802.11b/g). The Institute has an OC3 backbone, (very fast), that is provided throughout the campus in the academic and living areas. Road Runner and DSL are available in the area for those away from campus. An Ethernet connection is a must. You can also connect to the campus network via modem for free. The connection is usually around 45-53kbps. Not bad for a modem connection but not near the speed of Ethernet. If you have a laptop, wireless would be a great choice if you plan to carry your laptop around. Wireless technology is available across the campus as well (some areas have limited coverage).

Graphics and Video
A 128 MEG card should be sufficient for most applications and games. Get 256 or more for games, CAD applications or TV/Video applications. NVIDIA GeForce MX or similar is a decent card. If possible a laptop that has separate memory for the video, 128MB or better recommended.

Printer
There are plenty of black and white printers on campus. Color laser printers are available; there may be a fee for this type of printing. An inexpensive DeskJet is advisable for those quick print jobs or to print pictures or papers of a personal nature.

Warranty
Get the three year extended warranty if you can afford to do so.

RIT has agreements with many computer manufacturers such as Dell, Apple, SONY. Please call RIT Computer Sales at 585-475-2211 for more information on these purchasing programs.