Technology Requirements
The Physics and Astronomy Department has a laptop requirement for students studying in the Assistive Systems and Robotics Engineering (ASRE) major. Some days you will be required to bring your laptop to class. These requirements ensure that all ASRE students have access to the computing power needed for engineering software, simulations, and programming activities.
Minimum Laptop Requirements
- Processor: Intel Core i5 or i7 or AMD equivalent, or an Apple M-series chip*
- Display: 13" or larger with at least Full HD (1920 × 1080) resolution
- Operating System: Windows 11 or macOS* with updates current.
- Software: Microsoft 365, with Windows security turned on. Use the free download from Microsoft 365–not the limited capability web apps
- Memory: 16 GB RAM or higher
- Hard Drive: 256 GB solid state drive or higher
- Wireless Capability: Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) or newer
- Webcam: Integrated or external webcam required
- Display output: To use projection systems on campus, laptops should have an HDMI port or an adapter (many current model machines can use a USB-C to HDMI adapter if they do not have a dedicated HDMI port)
- Battery: Extended life battery. At least 6 to 8 hours of capacity, since not all classrooms have accessible electrical outlets
*Using Apple Mac Laptops
While macOS may work for some applications, students will need to use software that is only available for Microsoft Windows. If students are uncertain about whether they should purchase a Mac or a Windows-based laptop, they should get a Windows laptop. If they prefer a Mac, they should be prepared to purchase any additional software that may be needed to run Windows-only software, such as a Microsoft Windows 11 license and emulation software like Parallels or Crossover. In that case, students would be responsible for ensuring that they can successfully run and install this software, since on-campus technical support for this use case is not available.
Common Questions
Where do I purchase a new laptop?
UW–Eau Claire has discounted pricing available on Dell and Apple laptops for enrolled students. Find the details on this page.
Where can I get free software?
Some software is free through the university! You can download Microsoft Office free via Microsoft 365. You will also get information in your classes for additional specialty software you may need.
What courses have the laptop requirement?
- MSE 286: Engineering Sophomore Seminar
- MSE 386: Engineering Junior Seminar
- ASRE 300: Sensors and Actuators
- ASRE 310: Control Theory and Applications
- ASRE 400: Systems Integration
- ASRE 486: ASRE Capstone I
- ASRE 487: ASRE Capstone II
