Recommended Configurations:
> Basic desktop
> Basic Portable
> Higher-end desktop
> Higher-end portable
> Optional Accessories
> Software
> Mac to School: The $2000 Challenge
> Letter to Incoming VS Students (60kb PDF)
Computers & Visual Studies
University at Buffalo expects students to have access to a computer beyond what is provided in public labs. For work required to be performed outside of class, Visual Studies maintains open labs for its students. However, it is highly recommended that students purchase their own computer, and that it be able to handle applications required for class. Owning a capable computer will enable you to work at home or elsewhere — especially convenient when the lab is closed, or during busy periods. Many students choose a portable, which allows them to work on their own computer in the lab, or to type notes during lectures. Wireless Internet is available throughout the VS Department and in many other areas on campus.
Basic configurations - recommended for communication design and general studio majors
Basic desktop: iMac 20" 2.66GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
Includes SuperDrive DL, 4GB RAM, 320GB Hard Drive, AppleCare. $1,358 from the Apple Store for Education or UB Micro.
Basic portable: MacBook 2.13GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
Includes SuperDrive DL, 4GB RAM, 320GB Hard Drive, AppleCare. $1,312 from the Apple Store for Education or UB Micro.
Higher-end configurations - recommended for Emerging Practices majors
Higher-end desktop: iMac 24" 3.06GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
Includes SuperDrive DL, 4GB RAM, 1TB Hard Drive, NVIDIA GeForce GT 130 512MB, Remote, AppleCare. $2,197 from the Apple Store or UB Micro.
Higher-end portable: MacBook Pro 15", 2.8GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
Includes SuperDrive DL, 4GB RAM, 500GB 7200 RPM Hard Drive, NVIDIA GeForce 9400M + 9600M GT with 512MB, Remote, AppleCare. $2,402 from the Apple Store or UB Micro.
Prices on this page were current as of 7/3/09 and may have changed. For current discounted pricing, promotions and online purchasing, visit the Apple Store for Education.
Removable Storage
We strongly recommend that students purchase removable storage for backing up work and transporting files from home to the labs. Consider a La Cie 500GB USB Hard Drive, $85, and a Kingston 8GB USB2 Flash Drive, $37, from UB Micro.
Optional Accessories
Extra RAM: 2GB is the minimum amount of RAM you should have installed for general applications. 4GB or more is highly recommended, especially when using memory intensive apps for imaging, 3D modeling and digital video. Consider adding as much as your budget allows. RAM prices are much better through specialty dealers than from Apple or other retail outlets. We recommend Data Memory Systems.
Modems: The above configurations do not include a modem, which is necessary for dial-up access to the Internet if you do not have a cable modem or DSL. Students living on campus are provided with high speed access — only an Ethernet cable is required to connect your Mac in your dorm rooms. Wireless access is available in many areas of campus.
Digitizing Tablet: Wacom tablets are recommended for users of Photoshop, Painter, and other graphics programs. These are pen-like pressure sensitive input devises that allow for natural media effects. Check out either the 6 x 8 or 9 x 12 USB tablets.
Printers: Students will be able to print our art projects in the labs, but a small, photo-quality inkjet or a laser printer may be desirable. See the Apple store for current Epson InkJet printers (for photo quality) or HP LaserJet (for sharp text).
Software
On campus, UB Micro has outstanding student pricing.
Adobe Creative Suite 4 Design Premium, contains Photoshop Extended, Illustrator, InDesign, Dreamweaver, Flash, and Acrobat 9, for $338.
This bundle comprises 90% of all software needed by the EP/CD student. Additional applications may be needed in some courses - Check with your instructors before purchasing.
This page should be used as reference only. Prices and configurations may change without notice. See the Apple Store for official retail price and availability.
