1:1 Laptop Initiative
Welcome Class of 2025!
Don’t Forget Your Laptop!
The College of Education began a “New Learning Ecology” initiative in Fall 2010. Incoming first year students are encouraged to bring their own laptop computers or other approved digital devices so that they can learn and practice teaching in a 1:1 computing environment.
Students benefit from the wireless computing capacity on NC State’s campus and in Poe Hall where atria and classrooms have been upgraded with additional power and new table-top furniture.
Laptops are not required in courses until the sophomore year as an undergraduate. However, it is highly recommended to bring a laptop during the first year as it is an asset in all university classes.
Laptop Specifications
The Choice is Yours
You can be successful at NC State regardless of the computing platform you choose (Windows, Mac OS X). Campus computing resources are compatible with both of these platforms. When purchasing a Mac, please be aware you may have to purchase a copy of Windows and reconfigure your machine to run some software required in some courses.
Bringing a Laptop
Bringing a laptop to NC State in the fall does not mean you have to buy a new one. If you own a laptop that is less than two years old, compare your computer to the minimum specifications for owned machines.
For the 2021-2022 academic year, OIT has developed the following minimum recommendations, which should be met or exceeded by a new computer that you plan to bring to campus. The greater the capability (processor speed, RAM, disk capacity) and expandability you purchase now, the more likely your computer will be able to meet your future needs.
New Computer Recommendations (Minimum)
| Component | New PC Desktop or Laptop | New Apple Desktop or Laptop |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | Intel Core I5 , I7, or I9 Processor or AMD Ryzen 5 , 7 or 9 Processor | Intel Core I5, I7 Processor, or M1 Processor |
| System RAM | 8GB or greater (16GB preferred) | 8GB or greater (16GB preferred) |
| Hard Drive | 256GB or greater SSD (preferred) | 256GB or greater SSD |
| Operating System | Windows 10 | OS X 10.14 (or higher) |
| Wireless Card | 802.11ac (included standard) | 802.11ac (included standard) |
| Warranty Service | 3-year on-site parts and labor | 3-year AppleCare Protection Plan |
Purchasing Info
All laptops are not created equal
Do some research before you buy. Computer pricing varies greatly, but we encourage you to compare market prices for the models. Review vendor quality and service ratings from independent sources such as Consumer Reports. Adhere to the recommended minimum specifications (or greater) and your system should be fine.
Buyer Beware
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! Avoid these common pitfalls when shopping for a laptop. A vendor advertises laptops for $500, but when configured with adequate specifications, the price rises significantly. The price does not include a 3-year parts/labor warranty. And, the vendor charges a fee to contact customer support.
Wolfpack Outfitters
Wolfpack Outfitters offers models recommended by the College of Education and NC State that fit our minimum laptop specifications. They can offer educational discounts on products. Purchasing online is also available. An added benefit is that devices purchased through the bookstore come with warranties and accidental damage protection and can be repaired or serviced here on campus via the OIT Walk-in Center
Software
Students can recieve Microsoft Office for both Windows and Mac OS X for free with their student login credentials. Students may need additional software for classes. Wait until you attend classes before purchasing such special use software. Software licensing information is available at http://software.ncsu.edu/
What should I bring with my computer?
If you bring your own computer, be sure to include its associated documentation, warranty information, and backup installation disks. Keep these in a safe place in case you need to reinstall or reconfigure any hardware or software.
How about theft deterrence
To discourage theft, it is a good idea to engrave your Campus ID number (NOT your Social Security number) on all computer equipment you bring to campus. NC State Campus Police, building # 238 campus map central, offers engraving services. Also see Safe Computing at NC State.
Support
You can receive computing assistance with software and minor hardware problems from the Education IT (EdIT) Help Desk.
412 Poe Hall
919.515.1760
ced_help@ncsu.edu
In addition, residence hall support and a walk-in help center are available to all students. The Office of Information Technology Walk-in Center has on-site licensed repair technicians certified to do repairs on any of the vendors that are recommended and sold via Wolfpack Outfitters.