Computer specifications

CPU - Central Processing Unit

The main brain in a computer, the CPU runs all the complex calculations required by the software. This is the most important part of your computer and usually, not possible to upgrade without upgrading other parts of your system such as your motherboard. Generally this should be the most expensive part of your computer.

GPU- Graphics Processing Unit (or Graphics Card)

This is the secondary brain in your computer that controls all the display information. All of the 3D and games-related software relies heavily on your GPU and increasingly other software can offload some of the processing to the GPU as well.

Some computers have an integrated GPU and share memory with the CPU. Many laptops have integrated graphics to make the most of the battery life and reduce the amount of heat generated. A dedicated graphics card is highly recommended as it will be significantly more powerful and has it's own dedicated memory. This is generally the second most expensive part of your computer.

RAM - Random Access Memory

RAM is the temporary or short term-memory of the computer. When you book software, it loads all the instructions into memory. Any work you create are stored in this part of the memory until your save them on your hard drive. Because much of the software and files that students are working on are large, it's important that you have enough. The most common type of RAM currently is DDR4 and if you have an older system you may have DDR3 or DDR2.

Hard Drive

A fast hard drive is essential for the speed that your system boots, programs load and transfer of large data from storage into memory (RAM). We recommend using a SSD drive (Solid State Drive) as they are faster and more resistant to shocks as it has no moving parts. These generally more expensive that traditional HDDs (Hard Disk Drives) which consist of spinning magnetised plates. Many systems feature both types of drives: an SSD of 256Gb or 512 GB to run the computer's operating system and applications, and a HDD of 1 or 2 TB for additional data storage.

Monitors

Monitors come in a range of sizes and are very important to have an efficient workflow as many of the applications used in games and visual effects are designed for larger monitors and reply on users having multiple toolbars and workspaces on screen. We would recommend students have at least one screen of 22 inches or larger. In AIE classrooms we use 2 x 22" LED monitors so that students can have two large workspaces available. This means they can have a tutorial on one window while working in the other or can work across two applications, such as visual studio and Unity, simultaneously.

Laptop vs Desktop

Whilst the size and portability of a laptop can be very appealing it is important to note that generally a desktop computer setup is best suited for most students working in games and visual effects for the following reasons:

• Ergonomics: Laptops are not built for working in front of for long periods of time. Hunching over a small screen with built in keyboard and mouse is not efficient or good for posture. It is highly recommended that students using a laptop for a significant amount of time connect and use an additional large monitor and external keyboard and mouse so they can setup their workspace following best work health and safety practices.
• Power: Laptops often use lower-power or speed-limited CPUs and GPUs to reduce heat and extend battery life. This means a slower computer than the equivalent components in a desktop computer. Most laptops suitable for games and visual effects work will have serious power requirements which means that battery life is often limited to 2 hours or less, limiting the ability to work on the go.
• Cost: a laptop with the same specifications as a desktop will cost anywhere from 20-75% more because of the additional engineering and design requirements to fit all those components in a small laptop design.
• Upgradability: A desktop uses interchangeable parts, which can be sourced independently and more competitively. Laptops have very limited parts that can be updated, unlike desktops which can have every component replaced and updated.