IT equipment advice
The recommended specification for devices needed to support many activities within the Department of Architecture and Built Environment are outlined by Digital and Technology Services (DTS).
It is also recommended that you have a webcam and microphone for participation in video conferences and online group meetings plus a keyboard and mouse to enable you to work effectively with certain software.
These requirements are largely in line with requirements that the university recommends in general. However, some of our programmes of study recommend enhancements or additions to these requirements. This is because you will be working with certain software packages and will be carrying out digital analysis and/or design.
If you are a student of the following programmes:
- MEng or BEng (Hons) Architectural Environment Engineering Programmes
- MSc Sustainable Building Technology
- MSc Building Performance Engineering
The use of MacBooks and similar devices is not recommended as running the software can be problematical with the Apple operating systems.
It is helpful (although not essential) for you to have:
- a device that enables you to draw
- a separate monitor with minimum screen size of 21 inch
If you are a student of one the following programmes:
- BArch (Hons) Architecture
- BArch (Hons) Architectural Studies
- MEng Architecture and Environmental Design
- MArch Architecture (ARB/RIBA Part 2)
- MArch Architecture with Collaborative Practice Research (ARB/RIBA Part 2)
- MArch Architecture with Collaborative Practice Research (ARB/RIBA Part 2) and Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Practice in Architecture (Part 3)
- MArch Sustainable Urban Design
- MArch Advanced Architecture Design
- MArch Architecture & Sustainable Design
- MArch Architecture Design & Build
- MSc Renewable Energy & Architecture
It is recommended that:
- Minimum RAM is 8GM but recommended RAM is 16GB
- Your minimum screen size should be 15.6 inch
- A minimum of three USB ports is required alternatively, an adapter to extend one USB port to three or more will be acceptable
- Your HDMI connection should be direct
It is helpful (although not essential) for you to have:
- a separate monitor with minimum screen size of 21 inch
- a device that enables you to draw
DABE students
For all DABE students the following capabilities aren’t essential but could help improve your comfort while studying:
- Rapid recharge of batteries or spare batteries to provide all day use
- Devices than can connect to a bigger screen (TV or monitor) for longer periods of study or collaborative work – university monitors use HDMI connections