Hi everyone,
I’ll be attending UF in the fall. Thinking of going into Biomedical Engineering; for now my major is exploratory. Anyway, I urgently need to get a new laptop, but I want one that really would handle all the programs and apps I’m likely to be running like AutoCAD, MATLAB, etc.
So I have a little list:
Intel i7 Processor
1 Terabyte of hard disk drive space
at least 8 GB of RAM
Good graphics card
fast
What laptops do you suggest? You can mention the laptop you or your friends in engineering have (if you’re a student), that the school/ professors have recommended, etc. For parents, what computer did your child end up getting? Don’t pay too much attention to the list. I really just would like your opinions.
Please respond as soon as possible 
Thanks so much!
Last year we got my DD (Industrial Engineering) an Intel i5 (I think) based laptop, without a graphics card. The newer Intel chips have a decent built-in graphics processer. Don’t over-spend on your laptop. They get stolen/broken and for stuff like AutoCAD, you are more likely to use a workstation in the lab (it’s a lot easier to use). Just make sure it has a recent generation Intel chip.
How common is laptop theft? And are there any quick tip and precautions to make sure crap like that doesn’t happen? I would think, since it’s a laptop, it’d always be with you but if it’s common that they get stolen then maybe there’s more to it to keep it safe.
Thanks for the advice, Gator88NE. What model laptop did she have, and did it perform well for her?
I’ll see if I can dig up the info. It’s an i5 (or even i3) 4th or 5th generation. It’s working fine for her at this point.
@Jackburg Theft is the number 1 crime on campus. Most often it’s bike related, but text books are common (easy to sell back for $$). You may want to invites in a laptop lock and cable. If so, find one that’s compatible with your laptop, some laptops already come with a built in locking port for the lock.
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/kensington-clicksafe-keyed-laptop-lock-black/2824246.p?id=1218354839430&skuId=2824246
Otherwise, be careful with it. Never leave it unattended.
@Gator88NE Thanks for the tips… Is it common for your stuff to be taken directly from your dorm too?
It’s not common, but don’t leave your door open and your room unattended.