Computer Requirement
Undergraduate and transfer students at the J. B. Speed School of Engineering are required to have a mobile computer with an active digital pen meeting the minimum specifications below. Graduate students should have a laptop.
Summer & Fall 2017 / Spring 2018
Minimum Tablet Specification
| Component | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| OS | Windows 10 Pro (preferred) or 8.1 Pro, 64-bit version |
| PC Processor | Intel Core i5 or i7 |
| Memory (RAM) | 8 GB or greater |
| Storage Drive | 256 GB or larger Hard Drive (Solid State Drive recommended) |
| Wireless | 802.11 ac dual band (WiFi certified recommended) |
| Input Device | Integrated Intel, Wacom, or Synaptics active stylus that supports digital inking |
| Detailed Tablet Requirements |
In addition, the following are recommended:
- 3-year warranty with Accident Damage Protection
- A USB hard drive or cloud backup option
The following types of devices are not acceptable for use as your computer at Speed:
- iPad, any Apple computers or devices running iOS
- Chromebooks
- Android tablets or any devices running the Android operating system
- Windows Surface devices running the Windows RT or mobile operating system
- Devices running the Linux or Unix operating system
Consumer Grade vs. Business Grade Tablets:
In general we've found that business grade models of tablets perform better, last longer and provide the student with a total cost of ownership equal to that of consumer grade products. Many consumer grade tablets do not have the required digital pen or active stylus for digital inking. When purchasing a model other than those we've provided links for, be sure to ask the sales person whether it includes an active inking device.
Ready to purchase a tablet but not sure what to get?
The tablet evaluation page contains several devices that meet the requirements and work well with the engineering software. Purchase one of these pre-configured approved units through our technology partner: Connection.
For more information please contact:
Speed IT Helpdesk
Vogt Building Room 203
E-mail: spdhelp@louisville.edu
Phone: 502-852-7620
