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CSG Classroom and Labs
RH 2055 – CSG Studio
RH 2055 Computer Simulation & Gaming Studio is a state-of-the-art lab and classroom designed to provide CSG students access to industry-standard software and hardware for developing real-world projects. Students enrolled in a CSG course will gain access to this space.
RH 2015 – XR Studio
RH 2015 Extended Reality (XR) Studio is a collaborative space specifically designed for creating immersive content, including but not limited to 3D imaging, photogrammetry, virtual production, virtual reality (VR), mixed reality (XR), and augmented reality (AR). Access is organized through courses and undergraduate research projects. To learn more about undergraduate research in CSG speak with Program Coordinator Akram Taghavi-Burris.
Hardware Recommendations for Students
To ensure a productive learning environment, students must meet specific technology requirements. In general, students are required to have up-to-date hardware and software, including a stable internet connection.
Hardware Recommendations
| Specifications | Computer Simulation and Gaming (CSG) Recommendations for Good Performance |
| OS (Operating System) | Windows 11 (64-bit) + |
| A Windows PC is recommended for CSG majors ** | |
| CPU (Central Processing Unit) | Intel Core i7 + |
| AMD Ryzen 9 7900 + | |
| RAM (Random Access Memory) | 32GB + |
| HD (Hard Drive / Storage) | 1TB SSD |
| Display | 1980 x 1080 or Higher |
| Graphics (GPU – Graphics Processing Unit) | GeForce RTX 4060 + |
| Radeon RX 7600 + | |
| VRAM (Video RAM) | 12GB + |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/g/n/ac |
| Drives | Optional |
| Ports | USB-A, USB-C, HDMI |
| External | Headphones, Webcam, Mouse with 3 buttons |
*See Glossary of Hardware Terms for more information
** While many CSG applications are compatible with both Windows and Mac, a Windows PC avoids file-sharing issues related to different file structures and supports DirectX, required for some advanced electives.
Software Requirements
To participate effectively in coursework, students will need specific software based on their major, as outlined in the following table. Many of these applications offer free software licenses for personal use, student use, or limited-time access, while others are provided through the university.
| Type of Software | Examples | CS | DS | CSG |
| Office Suite | Microsoft Office, Google Workspace | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Version Control | GitHub Desktop, Git client | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| IDE | Visual Studio, Eclipse, IntelliJ IDEA, PyCharm | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Data Analysis Tools | MATLAB, Jupyter Notebook, RStudio | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Game Engines | Unity, Unreal Engine, Godot, GDevelop, Twine | ✓ | ||
| 3D Modeling & Animation | Blender, SolidWorks, Mixamo | ✓ | ||
| Creative Design | Adobe Creative Suite, Krita, PhotoPea, Piskel | ✓ | ||
| Audio Tools | Audacity, Wwise, FMOD | ✓ | ||
| Video Production | OBS (Open Broadcaster Software), Adobe Premiere Pro | ✓ |
Glossary of Hardware Terms
- OS (Operating System) – The software that manages all the hardware and other software on a computer. Common OS choices are Windows, macOS, and Linux. It’s what you see and interact with when using your computer.
- CPU (Central Processing Unit) – Often called the “brain” of the computer, the CPU handles most of the processing tasks. A faster CPU means your computer can handle more complex programs and multitasking efficiently.
- RAM (Random Access Memory) – Temporary memory that stores data the computer is currently using. More RAM allows for better multitasking and running memory-intensive programs like video editing, programming tools, or 3D design software.
- HD (Hard Drive / Storage) – The component where files, applications, and the operating system are stored. Modern computers often use SSDs (Solid State Drives), which are much faster than traditional HDDs (Hard Disk Drives).
- Display – Refers to your computer screen’s resolution, which affects how sharp and detailed images and text appear. Full HD is 1920 × 1080, while 4K offers much higher clarity and is preferred for media, design, or detailed visual work.
- Graphics (GPU – Graphics Processing Unit) – The part of a computer responsible for rendering images, video, and animations. Integrated GPUs are built into the CPU and work for basic tasks, while dedicated GPUs (like NVIDIA or AMD models) are better for gaming, 3D modeling, simulations, and video production.
- VRAM (Video RAM) – Special memory used by the GPU. Higher VRAM allows the computer to handle more complex visuals, textures, and larger displays. Important for video editing, gaming, or simulation software.
- Wi-Fi – The wireless technology that allows your device to connect to the internet. The listed standards (802.11 a/g/n/ac) refer to different generations of Wi-Fi—ac is fast and common; newer versions include ax (Wi-Fi 6).
- Drives – This refers to optical drives (like CD/DVD/Blu-ray). Most modern laptops no longer include them, and they are typically optional unless a specific use case requires them.
- Ports – Physical connectors on a device used to plug in accessories.
- USB-A: The standard USB port.
- USB-C: A newer, faster, reversible USB connector.
- HDMI: A port for connecting external displays like monitors and projectors.