Computer Requirements

Computer Requirements

UConn DMD Computer and Software Requirements

As its name implies, Digital Media & Design requires the use of a variety of technologies. Students enrolled in any DMD course are required to own a suitable portable computer for use in and outside of class. Digital animation, film production, and most types of digital media require more robust systems than those used for simple web browsing and word processing. (Note: As this is required for the major, students can use their financial aid packages to purchase the equipment and software.)
If you have questions regarding specific computer purchases, please email digitalmedia@uconn.edu before ordering so that we can help you.

COMPUTER REQUIREMENT (all students):
The following are the current laptop specifications we recommend for either an Apple or PC:
  • 11th Generation Intel® Core™ i7 Processor or Apple M1
  • 16 GB RAM (32-64 GB HIGHLY recommended) 
  • NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX 3050 or similar
  • 1 TB Hard Drive
  • 802.11ac Wi-Fi
  • One or moreUSB-C ports
  • Minimum screen size of 15” – larger than 15” is even better to view fine details
  • Antivirus software (https://software.uconn.edu/software/avira/)
  • 3-year on-site warranty service (This is critical.)
  • Insurance coverage for both damage and theft (Strongly suggested.)
  • Windows 11 (64 bit) or macOS 12.0 Monterey
  • Webcam

Strongly Recommended Accessories:
  • External wireless mouse, such as the Logitech M705.
  • USB external hard drive of 2TB or larger. Solid State Drives (SSD) are best.
  • Adapters that allow HDMI output and USB input (i.e. some laptops have limited connection options)
  • Noise-canceling headphones

SOFTWARE REQUIREMENT (all students):
Adobe Creative Cloud
All students enrolled in classes in the Digital Media & Design program are required to purchase a monthly subscription to Adobe’s Creative Cloud Suite. UConn students may now purchase discounted Adobe Creative Cloud (CC) licenses at: software.uconn.edu/adobe-products-students.
Microsoft
* All University of Connecticut students also have full access to Microsoft Office, Microsoft Windows and the Microsoft Dreamspark Premium platform: https://software.uconn.edu/microsoft-products-students/

UConn DMD First Year Program - Recommended Accessory Kit

Digital Storytelling is a major emphasis of the first year curriculum. We realize that most high-end cell phones have excellent cameras, and with a few low-cost accessories, can become great consumer photo/video/audio devices.

Smartphone Mobile Accessories (Estimated cost: $190):

Install these FREE Smartphone Apps to enhance recording capabilities:

UConn DMD Film/Video Production Major - Gear Recommendations

In addition to a laptop, students choosing to major in BFA concentration in Digital Film/Video Production may want to invest in a decent DSLR camera and tripod. Here is a list of recommended equipment.  B&H Photo Video offers educational discounts to students.
Camera / Lens:
  • Canon EOS 90D
    • Canon Kit Lenses (Canon EF-S 18-135mm, Canon EF 24-105mm)
  • Sony Alpha A7 III
    • Sony Kit Lenses (Sony FE 28-70mm, Sony FE 24-105mm)

Strongly Recommended Accessories:
  • Fluid head video tripod. Recommended brand: Manfrotto or Sachtler.
  • AA Batteries (for Zoom H4N recorder)
  • 64GB+ UHS-I or UHS-II SD Card. Recommended brands: Sandisk, Sony, Lexar
  • Rode VideoMic Pro Camera-Mount Shotgun Microphone or equivalent
  • SDHC Memory Card (minimum 64GB, 10 Speed, 80mb+ transfer) for film concentration (or CFast card if shooting RAW).
    • 64GB+ UHS-I or UHS-II SD Card. Recommended brands: Sandisk, Sony, Lexar

FREE Software: Davinci Resolve 16 (Recommended)
DaVinci Resolve 16 is a free* color-grading and editing software (*up to 2K exports.) It is also the only solution designed for multi-user collaboration so editors, assistants, colorists, VFX artists and sound designers can all work live on the same project at the same time.