Beginning Fall 2002, the Department of Architecture and Interior
Design initiated a requirement that incoming (first-year and
graduate) students purchase a laptop computer, a pre-selected
package of software, and a digital camera. This decision was
made to support an increased use of computers across the curriculum
and to insure that the department remains at the cutting edge
of digital investigation.
Incoming students are directed to the Miami
University Bookstore for current information on computer
and software requirements, and current pricing. Note that
pricing is set below Miami’s educational discounted
price.Students may choose between MAC and PC laptops (as specified on the Miami University Bookstore website) but are urged to discuss pros and cons of each with the Department prior to purchase.
Generally, students in the M.Arch. tracks will have some
discretion as to specific software but are likely to make
use of the various applications listed above. M. Arch. students
required to take the introductory computer graphics courses
(ARC 513, 514, 613, 614) will be required to have software
listed above. Graduate students should verify specific requirements
with the Graduate Office.
Digital Camera
A digital camera is required and is used in several courses
as well as to document student work in the portfolio. Since
several incoming students already own a digital camera, a
specific model is not required. Rather, suggested minimum
specifications are as follows:
- 5 mega-pixels
minimum (allowing for higher resolution printing)
- focal distance ≤ 4” (many
inexpensive cameras will not allow for a short focal distance,
limiting model photography and material photography)
- no automatic flash (the ability to turn
off the flash is helpful when using other lighting sources)
- high memory cards; 64 MB+ (so
that enough photos can be taken between downloads)
- USB or firewire cable (for direct download
of images to computer)
Printers
Purchase of a printer is optional. High quality printers and
plotters are used frequently and are available in the department
lab as well as in several locations across campus. Conventional
8” 1/2 x 11” printers are also available, but
students may wish to purchase their own.
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