Technology

Gear Box

The Gear Box program offers a convenient way to acquire all the technological tools you’ll need to succeed - as a student now, and as a working art and design professional after graduation. Take advantage of deep discounts on your computer, hardware and software through flexible packages tailored to each specific program of study.

The Gear Box includes a 15” MacBook Pro with 4-year warranty, accidental damage insurance, and a RMCAD computer bag. You’ll also receive a Wacom tablet and a full software suite appropriate to your major. Other inclusions vary depending on your degree program.

Please note: Beginning in Fall 2011, RMCAD will require all students to use a Mac laptop for their coursework. This will help ensure efficient communication and consistent tech support across all learning environments.

Wireless Networking

RMCAD is a wireless campus. We offer secure wireless services to students and faculty free so they can connect to email, file servers and printing from anywhere on College grounds.

Every student is given a free RMCAD email account. This account allows you to get all the important information about classes, financial aid and student activities.

Computer Labs

There are 19 computer labs on campus, with more on the way. We have a computer-to-student ratio of one computer for every 3 students, so a machine is always available when you need one.

We maintain a mix of Apple and Windows PCs, and all computers are linked to color and black & white printers and student accessible file servers. All computers support CD and DVD burning and authoring, high-resolution scanning and graphic-specific monitors.

Printing

Enrolled RMCAD students enjoy the freedom of high-speed color laser printing as well as multiple black & white laser printers on campus, RMCAD also offers wide format printer options. All printers are available via our wireless network.

File Storage

Every enrolled student is given space on our “Student Storage” server. Students’ files are accessible anywhere on campus, including all labs or over our wireless network.

Tech Bar

RMCAD offers full-service technical support for all enrolled students. Open all campus open hours, Tech Bar employees can help students select new software, provide advice on upgrading or purchasing personal computers and many other helpful perks.

The RMCAD Tech Bar also offers a lot of digital devices for student use -- at no additional charge. Students can check out high resolution digital cameras, digital video cameras, light kits and much, much more.

Supply Store

The RMCAD supply store offers all kinds of digital equipment for sale or order including digital drawing tablets and digital storage devices. Best of all, the RMCAD student store can special order almost anything, often with an educational discount.

Apple Laptop Program

RMCAD has a partnership with Apple, and can offer our students deep discounts on laptops and various software packages. Talk to your admissions counselor or the TechBar for more information.

General Technology Guidelines:

Buy as much RAM and disk space as you can. 4GB of RAM and 500GB of disk space is a good starting point.
If your degree involves extensive use of computers (see below) buy the largest screen and the best video card you can afford. This also applies to laptops.
Plan on buying a high capacity external hard drive if your major is listed below.
Stop by the Techbar for more specific recommendations.

By Major:

Animation: PCs are preferred, but most applications are available for both platforms.
Game Art: PCs are preferred, but most applications are available for both platforms.
Communications Design: Apple is preferred, but most applications are available for both platforms.
Fine Arts w/ Video Art Emphasis: Apple is the way to go.
Illustration: Apple is the way to go. If you decide to pursue computer-based illustration you should also invest in a graphics tablet at some point during your college career.
Interior Design: Windows is the way to go. If you already own a Apple talk to the Techbar about running Windows on your Apple hardware.

If your degree isn't listed, there aren't specific computer requirements; buy whatever machine you are most comfortable using. Some vendors provide large student discounts with proof of enrollment in a degree program. Here are a few sites to get you started:

Journeyed.com
Academic Superstore
Or just ask at your favorite vendor or reseller if they offer an educational discount (Apple, HP, etc.)