2024-2025 Recommendations


The contents within this document are only recommendations based upon past experiences, and are in no way intended to direct you to a specific brand or model of computer.

***Chromebooks and Apple/Macintosh products are not recommended*** The software required for Engineering Technology courses is not compatible with these machines.

The brand of computer does not necessarily matter. The hardware/software specifications should be the primary reason for making your purchase. The SolidWorks System Requirements are the driving force behind our recommendations.

Hardware Specifications:
  • Operating System: Windows 11, 64-bit
  • Processor: Intel Core i7 and 3.3 Ghz or higher processor
  • RAM: 16GB memory or higher
  • Drives: 512GB SSD hard drive or higher

· Video Card- please refer to the SolidWorks Hardware Certification site to lookup the model of computer/video card you are purchasing. Make sure it is compatible with Solidworks 2023 or newer. Recommended is Nvidia Quadro or Radeon Pro lines of video card. 

· Computer should include: speakers, webcam, and microphone


Software Recommendations:

· Windows Home/Windows Pro Operating System (excluding S mode)
· Microsoft Office 365 – Free to PSU students 
· Solidworks – Free to PSU Engineering Technology students. Download instructions will be given in class.
· Anti-Virus software – Free to PSU students 

Computer Accessories (as needed):

· Cables: Power, USB, HDMI
· USB Flashdrive, cloud storage
· Headphones, keyboard, mouse
· Printer: Printers are not required. There are several printing services around campus.

*Please note: Wireless printers are not allowed in the dorms.

Browsers:

· Chrome (preferred)
· Others as backup: Firefox, Microsoft Edge

Helpful links:

· Pitt Start!
· PSU Information Technology Services and Gorilla Geeks Help Desk
· Canvas Learning Management System