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Architecture Program

Media and Computer Policy

Architecture Media Policy

The Architecture program defines media as the medium(s) through which students and faculty produce work – they can be hand-generated, mechanical, digital, hybrids, etc. - it is all about the process through which ideas are constructed, not simply represented. 

Media is a fundamental way of seeing and speculating about architecture. The role of media is framed by the relationship among three areas of study that are present throughout the curriculum: 

  • History and Communication
  • Tools and Technological Understanding
  • Contemporary Practice

There are several pedagogical approaches to the role of media that address the aforementioned areas of study. There are two primary contemporary approaches to teaching media that affect the teaching at SDSU Architecture most:

  • Integration into the studio sequence as a means of exploration/expression
  • Stand-alone course sequence as a means to understanding

It is impossible not to work or think through Media in the studio. However, working through Media as the primary vehicle for imagining and constructing architectural ideas is different than thinking of Media only as a means to an end. Students are encouraged to not think about Media as a means to an end. Every studio in the Architecture curriculum specifically problematizes the role of Media.

In addition to studio, other course content is carefully designed to address Media in the context of the tools and spaces used by students. The spaces that are used include the construction (wood, metal and fabrication) shops, digital (production) lab and the shared studio space. These are academic spaces in which Media is folded into the academic dialog shared between faculty and students.

Many courses within the Architecture curriculum will focus on Media. This Media Policy is not, however, connected to any single Architecture course in particular. This policy provides an overview of the academic and practical expectations of students’ engagement with Media, including as a tool of discovery and a tool of communication.

Architecture Computer Policy

RIG (verb). Assemble and adjust (equipment, etc.) in readiness for operation.

RIG (noun). An apparatus, device or piece of equipment designed for a particular purpose.

The primary curricular position of Architecture is to give students an understanding of conceptual framework to engage and maximize the design potential of digital tools comprising their own RIG. Students are expected to purchase a computer during the fall of their second year as undergraduates. Successful completion of the program will require each student to develop proficiency with these technologies, which also prepares them for their future profession.

It is important to keep in mind that digital tools are continually changing and will do so throughout your academic and professional career. However, the fundamental concepts shaping computational design do not change as rapidly as software platforms and techniques. An agile RIG should be flexible, allowing students to explore the exchange of ideas and functions across different software. To facilitate and promote students’ aptitude with these tools, the Architecture program has developed these guidelines and policies.

Architecture encourages the purchase of a laptop as the primary piece of each student’s RIG. Architecture does not endorse a specific computer model or brand. Students are responsible for meeting the minimum criteria for both hardware and software based on the recommendations outlined here. Through the guidance of faculty and a creative, studio environment, each student is responsible for constructing and maintaining their own RIG.

  1. Students are responsible for the maintenance of their own RIG.
  2. Architecture encourages the purchase of a laptop or other mobile interface for presentations to others as the mobile piece of each student’s RIG.
  3. Students are responsible for providing and seeking hardware and software support for their RIG.
  4. Students are responsible for obtaining the necessary software to complete their coursework. [Software can be purchased at Jackrabbit Central – Student Union or online.] Many programs are also commercially available for student use at a substantially reduced rate.
  5. Students are responsible for testing and paying for output, which includes 2D and 3D printing and modeling. [on-campus printing includes the University Student Union, Self-Printing, etc.] Output media is the only effective way to get substantive input from faculty and reviewers.
  6. Students are educated in Media as part of the Architecture curriculum. Software training is NOT part of the Architecture curriculum, nor is technique/methods of other media operation. These are appropriately deemed the students’ exploration/development exercise & practice. 
  7. Architecture does NOT endorse a specific computer model or brand.
  8. Software piracy is illegal.

RIG Specifications

This outlines possible laptop or desktop options. It is recommended that students choosing a desktop option also have a portable version for use in remote classes or presentations.

Hardware (minimums)*

  • Operating System: 
    • Windows (Current Advanced Version)
    • Mac OS Systems are NOT recommended due to likely compatibility issues
  • Processor: 3.2 GHz 16 core or faster
  • CPU Cooler
  • Graphics Card: 8GB or more
  • Screen Size: 14-15” Full-HD (1920x1200 Minimum) 17” Full-HD Recommended
  • RAM: 32GB to 128GB
  • Disc Storage: 1TB to 4TB minimum (SSD is best)
  • HDMI Adapter
  • Camera: Integrated or External
  • Mouse: 3-button w/scroll wheel 

*See minimum, recommended, and high-end configuration examples at the end of this article.

Storage

Each student should consider the role of systematic storage in the construction of their RIG. Systematic storage partly refers to an organized and recurring backup storage device that is updated manually or automatically. It is recommended that each student obtain additional external storage. External hard drives are well suited for archiving files and for supplemental storage. Small flash drives (also known as thumb drives, jump drives, pen drives or memory sticks) are well suited for transporting files between devices. Students are also encouraged to use their allocated box.com online storage to archive their work. Finally, it is essential to carefully develop a system by which digital work is named and organized. This filing system/convention shall follow course defined formats and naming for consistency.

Accessories

Each student may find additional hardware accessories (mice, keyboards, cameras, additional monitors, printers, etc.) to construct their RIG in order to support their work. An 11x17 color printer, or access to one, is highly recommended. 

Output

Outputs will vary depending on the course but will likely include two-dimensional and three-dimensional drawings and models. Students should anticipate creating output regularly to facilitate input from others. This output will necessarily vary by class, individual student, and process. This makes predicting total costs problematic, but students will be able to better anticipate cost as they mature in the program and find their unique approach to their process. 

Software

Students are expected to obtain the software needed to complete the tasks and outputs required by their courses. Each student is expected to pursue the necessary aptitudes with regard to specific software tools. Addressing the implications and fundamental concepts of digital tools is a critical part of the Architecture program curriculum. Direct software training, however, is not part of the architecture curriculum, but considered a development process of each students’ media skillset.

The software platforms outlined below are integral to the development of each student’s RIG. This development is evident in the architecture curriculum through the relationship between hand-mechanical and digital processes. As students’ architectural education progresses, so will the capacity and composition of their RIG.

General Productivity 

The list below is a basic outline of some of the most commonly used software for general communication. This is the Communication and maintenance component of the RIG. 

  • Microsoft Office 365 Home
  • Anti-Virus + Malware
  • Email platforms

Basic Digital Concepts and Modeling

The list of software outlined below is tailored to give the beginning architecture student a basic understanding of the implications of using digital tools. These selections indicate the most commonly utilized software by architecture students but is not an exhaustive list. Most of the list is also widely used in the profession and has been proven to be good preparation for the profession. Many platforms will be referenced in a focused manner, concentrating primarily on the role of lines as a drawing and graphic medium. This is the drafting and modeling components of the RIG. Many platforms introduced as part of the basic digital concepts will be expanded as modeling tools. This will mark the introduction of parametric processes.

  • AutoDesk Account (student version – drafting)
  • (student version – graphics )
    • Acrobat (not Reader)
    • Photoshop
    • Illustrator
    • InDesign
  • Rhinoceros 3D (available through the Arch program – modeling)
  • Autodesk Revit (available for student use – modeling)
  • Lumion (available for student use – model graphics)

Students need to have their own computer with applicable software installed by the beginning of the second-year fall semester. Laptop and desktop options are outlined below. 

Computer Configuration Specification Examples (updated 8/2024)

Minimum Example: 

  • Intel Core i7-13700K 3.4GHz 16-Core Processor 
  • Liquid CPU Cooler
  • MSI PRO B760-P WIFI DDR4 ATX LGA 1700 Motherboard 
  • Corsair Vengeance LPX 32GB (2x16GB) DDR4-3600 CL18 Memory 
  • 1 TB Solid State Drive 
  • GeForce RTX 3070 8GB Video/Graphics Card 
  • Corsair 4000D Airflow ATX Mid Tower Case 
  • Power Supply 750 Watt 

Recommended Example: 

  • Intel Core i9-14900k 3.2GHz 24-Core Processor
  • Liquid CPU Cooler
  • MSI PRO B760-P WIFI DDR4 ATX LGA 1700 Motherboard 
  • Corsair Vengeance LPX 64GB (2x32GB) DDR4-3600 CL18 Memory 
  • 1 TB Solid State Drive 
  • GeForce RTX 4070 12GB Video/Graphics Card 
  • NZXT H9 Flow ATX Mid Tower Case 
  • Power Supply 850 Watt 

High-end Example: 

  • Intel Core i9-14900k 3.2GHz 24-Core Processor 
  • Liquid CPU Cooler
  • MSI PRO B760-P WIFI DDR4 ATX LGA 1700 Motherboard 
  • Corsair Vengeance LPX 128GB (4x32GB) DDR4-3600 CL18 Memory 
  • 4 TB Solid State Drive 
  • GeForce RTX 4070 Ti Super 16GB Video/Graphics Card 
  • NZXT H9 Flow ATX Mid Tower Case 
  • Power Supply 850 Watt 

For questions, please contact the Program Coordinator for Architecture.