Hardware
University Technology ([U]Tech), the technology division for CWRU, provides hardware recommendations for students to be better prepared for academic success when they arrive at the university. Students in the market for a new computer can take advantage of special offers on hardware with discount pricing at the [U]Tech eStore.
Minimum specifications for a computer you currently own:
- Hard Drive: 256GB Solid State Drive (SSD)
- RAM: 8GB
- Windows Processor: Intel Core i5 - 10th generation or higher
- Mac Processor: M1 or M2
Recommended specifications for a computer you currently own and for new computers:
- Hard Drive: 512GB SSD
- RAM: 16 GB
- Windows Processor: Intel Core i7 (or higher) or AMD Ryzen 7 (or higher)
- Mac Processor: M2, M3 or M4
Recommended specifications for computers running rendering software:
- Hard Drive: 512GB - 1TB SSD
- RAM: 32 GB
- Windows Processor: Intel Core i9 (or higher) or AMD Ryzen 9 (or higher)
- Mac Processor: M3 Pro or M4 Pro
- Graphics: 4GB - 8GB RAM on dedicated graphics card
Other considerations:
- All devices should include a web camera and microphone for video conferencing and remote learning
- We recommend purchasing a four-year, full-care warranty to cover the new hardware
- We do not recommend relying on Chromebooks or tablets for primary computer needs as some software—such as what is used for course exams—may not work on those devices
- The [U]Tech C.A.R.E. Center can assist with the repair of Dell, Lenovo and Apple computers. The center is located on the lower level of Kelvin Smith Library and supplies in-person technical support at no additional cost to all members of the CWRU community. Cost of replacement equipment not covered by warranty may apply.
- A small Apple Store is located inside the .
- and stores are found within our neighborhood, University Circle.
Software
- Software Center has over 40 software titles available to download—most at no additional cost. Visit to download Microsoft Office or Adobe Acrobat Reader and more.
- provides a virtual desktop environment with access to run all of the software licensed to any CWRU community member based on program of study, course enrollment or role at the university, without the need for installation on a computer. It works well on tablets and Chromebooks when a computer is not available.
Get technology help any time
For assistance with any technology product or service at Case Â鶹ӳ», contact the [U]Tech Service Desk at help@case.edu, +1 216.368.4357 (HELP) or visit help.case.edu.