Notebook Recommendation

A computer is, next to pen and paper, the tool of a computer scientist. You need a computer to prepare and follow up on practical tasks in addition to classroom lectures and self-study internships. A tablet is not sufficient because of the limited functionality - for example, development environments often cannot be installed. A desktop computer, on the other hand, is often too inflexible, as you will spend a lot of time in the university and work there. Therefore we recommend the purchase of a notebook.

Requirements and Recommendations

The notebook serves you primarily as a working tool. In the following we will give you a list of requirements that your notebook should meet in order to guide you through the six semesters of your bachelor studies without burdening you with high costs at the beginning of your studies.

The Processor

The processor has a decisive influence on the performance of the computer. However, you are rarely confronted with high demands on the CPU during your studies. At the same time, even inexpensive CPUs are very performant today. Therefore, you can get by with a CPU from the medium price and performance segment. It is only important that the CPU supports virtualization functions, such as Intel VT-x or AMD-V. 

• CPUs can be selected from the medium price and performance segment.
• CPUs should support virtualization features such as Intel VT-x or AMD-V.

The Main Memory

Like the processor, the size of the RAM determines the performance of your computer. The following applies in particular to the use of virtual machines: The more RAM, the better. We therefore recommend that you choose a slightly larger working memory and make sure that you can upgrade the working memory at a later date.

• At least 8 GB RAM memory.

The Hard Disk

The hard disk also determines the performance. You should therefore decide on an SSD. However, the amount of data you need for your studies is not particularly large. Depending on the operating system used - Windows, for example, requires a lot of space itself - a small to medium-sized SSD is sufficient.

• SSDs are much faster than traditional hard drives.
• Depending on the operating system, 128 GB (Linux) or 256 GB (Windows, OS X) are sufficient for studies. However, if your wallet allows it, you are welcome to have more.

The Graphics Card

You do not need a particularly powerful graphics card for your studies. The on-board graphics cards of modern laptops are quite sufficient. You can therefore do without a dedicated graphics card, e.g. from Nvidia or AMD.

• The on-board graphics card is sufficient.

The Display

Note that you will spend a lot of time in front of the display. You should therefore choose a sufficiently large display of good quality. It is also recommended to use a non-reflective display.

• Display size of at least 14 inch.
• Non-reflective or matt display is a clear plus.

The Battery Life

There are usually enough power sockets in the university. You are not dependent on a particularly good battery life.

• The battery life can be neglected.

The Operating System

In principle, you are free to choose the operating system. The programs used during the course of study are very often open source and run on all common operating systems, i.e. Windows, OS X and Linux. However, if you want to use Linux, it is recommended to pay special attention to the compatibility of the hardware. Slightly older laptops are usually better supported.

• You are free to choose the operating system.
• With Linux it is recommended to pay special attention to the compatibility of the hardware.