Computer Resources + Requirements
Computer Requirements for Incoming Students
All entering Architecture, Interior Architecture, and Landscape Architecture students are required to purchase specified hardware and software.
The required computer hardware averages about $2,800 and ensures you have a robust computer appropriate for preparation as a professional designer. The computers are high-end machines designed for intense, professional use and with care will last throughout your years here. Reliability, support and productivity in relation to professional CAD and graphics applications are key criteria in the specification of the technology package.
Please note that all entering Architecture, Interior Architecture, and Landscape Architecture students MUST purchase one of the specified systems through VolTech. Anyone wishing to deviate from this requirement in any way must first obtain prior approval from college administrators. See the link below for details and contact info.
Required Technology Package for 2022
If you have financial concerns about the purchase, please don’t hesitate to contact the financial aid office at OneStop. The experts there are familiar with our computer requirements and can advise you on funding options.
Regarding the Use of Macs in the Architecture, Interior Architecture, and Landscape Architecture Programs:
Computers running Microsoft Windows are required for the Architecture, Interior Architecture, and Landscape Architecture programs. In the past Macs were able to fulfil this requirement provided Windows was installed via the Bootcamp application and running on an Intel processor. All Macs now run on Apple’s M1 processors rather than Intel processors, and the Bootcamp application is no longer part of MacOS. Macs can therefore no longer meet the requirements of the Architecture, Interior Architecture, and Landscape Architecture programs. Macs are still supported for use in the Graphic Design program.
Graphic Design Students
Our Graphic Design students should have a laptop that is robust enough to run the latest version of Adobe Creative Cloud.
Any Mac or Windows laptop that is robust enough to run Adobe Creative Cloud will suffice for entering first year students.
Please note that we DO NOT recommend iPads or Chromebooks. We also strongly recommend against any computer with a screen size less than 15”.
Virtual Computer Workstations: Boost Your Power
We have virtual workstations that are available for you to use via web browser from your laptop. No additional hardware is needed to boost your computer’s processing power! The virtual workstations essentially give you a second computer for additional processing power for CAD applications, 3D modeling and rendering. All work on the virtual workstations is processed in the cloud, using only a few resources on your laptop.
First Things First: Accessing Virtual Workstations
- Windows users should disable Hibernation and Computer Sleep on their laptops before connecting to the virtual workstations. (Screen Sleep can remain enabled.)
- Mac users should disable Computer Sleep, Hard Disk Sleep, and Power Nap on their laptops before connecting to the virtual machines. (Screen Sleep can remain enabled.)
Windows Users: Virtual Workstations
NOTE: When following the procedure below, you can safely ignore all security and certificate warnings.
Step 1: Using ONLY the Microsoft Edge web browser, login to this website:
- https://coadlab.coad.utk.edu/RdWeb
- Domain\user name = utk\yournetID
- Password = your netID password
Step 2: Click the PerGPU icon and select Open
Step 3: In the Enter your credentials dialogue, enter your netID password again
Step 4: Wait for the virtual workstation to load. This may take several minutes. You can now close the Edge browser if you like.
Disconnecting from a Virtual Workstation from Windows
NOTE: It is very important that you disconnect from the virtual workstation, so it is available for another student.
The following simple procedure is the ONLY way to properly logout of the virtual workstation. Any other method can potentially leave the VW in an unstable state.
Step 1: Right-click the Windows Start menu icon and select Shut down or sign out / Sign out
Mac OS Users: Virtual Workstations
NOTE: When following the procedure below, you can safely ignore all security and certificate warnings.
Step 1: Download and install Microsoft Remote Desktop 10 from the App Store.
Step 2: Using ONLY the Safari web browser, login to this website:
- https://coadlab.coad.utk.edu/RdWeb
- Domain\user name = utk\yournetID
- Password = your netID password
Step 3: Click the PerGPU icon, then open the .RDP file from Downloads
Step 4: In the Enter your credentials dialogue, enter your Domain\user name & Password exactly as in the preceding step.
Step 5: Wait for the virtual workstation to load. This may take several minutes. You can now close the Safari browser if you like.
Disconnecting from a Virtual Workstation from Mac OS
NOTE: It is very important that you disconnect from the virtual workstation, so it is available for another student.
The following simple procedure is the ONLY way to properly logout of the virtual workstation. Any other method can potentially leave the VW in an unstable state.
Step 1: Right-click the Windows Start menu icon and select Shut down or sign out / Sign out
Tech Resources
Now What? Computer Setup
You’ve purchased your new laptop from VolTech, and for Mac owners, VolTech has installed Windows. Now what? You’ll need several required applications configured to access our tech resources, such as servers and printers.
Studio Desk LCDs
All of our students have 27” LCDs installed at their studio desks. This is an incredible resource, one few other design colleges provide. Please use these for their intended purpose: To extend your laptop’s capability.
How to Connect Your Laptop to the LCD
- Connect using either DisplayPort, Mini DisplayPort or HDMI cable.
- Set the input option on the LCD to match the selected cable.
College File Server
All faculty, staff and students have access to the college file server, which contains directories for various courses, projects, groups and individuals.
Server Overview and Access Details
Digital Printing
We offer full- and self-service printing for student projects. Learn about our Digital Print Center, self-service printers, and how to prepare your files to print.