Laptop Computer Requirements
Many courses at Sierra Nevada University require the use of a laptop computer –during class, for homework and class assignments, and occasionally outside of class during field trips or other extra-curricular activities. Each classroom, and both residence halls, provide Wi-Fi connectivity (the dorm rooms also have Ethernet ports). SNU does not have computer lab dedicated for work on class assignments, so each student must provide their own laptop computer. Any laptop meeting or exceeding the requirements below will be adequate. Occasionally, individual courses may require additional software; the syllabus for each course should describe any such requirements.
Please note that Google Chromebooks will not connect to SNU’s printers. Students who choose to purchase Chromebooks can still print from the public computers in Prim Library.
PC minimum hardware requirements:
- Intel or AMD i5 multi-core processor
- 8GB RAM
- 250 GB SSD Hard Drive
- 1080p display
- VGA and HDMI adapters, for connecting to projectors
- Ethernet and wireless internet capabilities
PC optional hardware:
- External CD-ROM player
- 1TB USB external storage drive
PC minimum software requirements:
- Microsoft Windows 10 operating system
- Microsoft Office 365 (this is provided with your SNU email account)
- Web browsing software (Edge, Firefox or Chrome)
(Note that Chrome will be needed for online instruction through Canvas) - Latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader DC (free to download)
- Anti-virus software with active subscription, so that updates can automatically download.
Mac/PC compatibility requirements:
If you plan to bring a Mac laptop to SNU for school use, you may need to install a Windows operating system on your machine as well so that you will be capable of using all needed programs for your classes. Please confirm with your instructors regarding the requirements for each class. The SNU I.T. department is not responsible for providing or installing these programs.
Current Mac operating systems come with the Boot Camp app included on the platform, on which the Windows 10 operating system may be loaded. Installation instructions may be found online.
An alternative way to achieve compatibility with the PC, Windows, and MS Office environment is to acquire Virtual Box for Mac, VM Fusion, or other similar software. Such software allows a Mac to emulate a Windows operating system environment.
Windows-based software for specific courses:
- SPSS (for PSYC)
- ArcMap (for GIS and ENVS)
Mac minimum hardware requirements:
- Intel or AMD i5 multi-core processor
- 8GB RAM
- 250 GB SSD Hard Drive
- 1080p display or higher
- VGA and HDMI adapters, for connecting to projectors
- Ethernet and wireless internet capabilities
Mac optional hardware:
- External CD-ROM player
- 1TB USB external storage drive
Mac minimum software requirements:
- The most current macOS. (As of 01/01/2021, “Big Sur” is the latest version.)
- Web browsing software (Safari, Chrome or Firefox)
Note that Chrome will be needed for online instruction through Canvas - Microsoft Office 365 (this is provided with your SNU email account)
- Latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader DC (free to download)
- Installation of Windows 10 using Boot Camp or Virtual Box (Windows 10 license required)
- Please ensure your Mac’s built-in firewall is enabled. Go to System Preferences > Privacy & Security, and then click the Firewall tab.