5.0 TEXTBOOKS AND OTHER MATERIALS

5.1 Computers Required

-1- Students are required to have access to a computer. In past years, school computers were provided; but during the pandemic access to those computers is limited. As a result, each student is required to have a computer.

A recommended desktop computer with Microsoft Windows 10 with a monitor, keyboard and mouse cost about $525. Laptops cost more and are typically run slower with memory intensive software like AutoCAD. A discussion of recommended of Dell Windows desktops is here:

http://mikeleblanc.net/slcc/hard-software/windows/

The cost for Mac computer is twice that amount ($1,000) at an entry point and then double that again for good hardware ($2,000). That figure can be double or tripled for first rate hardware ($4,000 to $6,000). If you already have a Mac, I will make some allowances for their use in the class. I use a Mac so I am well acquainted with their use for AutoCAD, but I will limit my support unless a student provides equal effort to my efforts. Moreover, I do not guarantee resolution of your issue.

Specifications of desktops and laptops Mac versions are available on the instructors website at http://mikeleblanc.net/slcc/hard-software/mac/

Note well that the SLCC Information Technology Department provides support for Windows issues, but does not support the Mac computers. Apple has a free telephone support and robust community of message boards. Additional support is available for a fee in Lafayette from the The Orchard near Target on Ambassador Caffery and at Apple Pie near Lafayette Music Company on Johnston Street

5.2 Software Required

AutoCAD 2020 software is required.

The program is free with a school email address for one year. The program comes in Windows and Mac versions. The instruction is in the use of the Windows version. Some adjustments are required when using a Mac. As described above, I will limit my support of Mac software in the same way I will support computers.

The AutoCAD (plugin-in) software application called Folio7 is required. It is free to students. The instructor has been wiring and updating the computer code as well as distributing the application since in 1991. It is fully supported. Note well that the software is licensed only for educational purposes. Commercial licenses are $100.

The instructor provides additional drawings and data files for use with the AutoCAD and Folio7.

The links to download the software is found on the instructor’s website here: http://mikeleblanc.net/slcc/cad-maps/

5.3 Other Instructional Materials

-1- The help files associated with the version of AutoCAD being used for the course.

-2- Folio 7 Documentation is found on the instructor’s website:

http://mikeleblanc.net/folio7/

-3- Digital files prepared by the instructor without costs to students.

-4- Other textbooks and materials as required or recommended by the instructor based on the learning progression of the individual class and its members. There may be a cost to the student for these kinds of resources.

-5- Other printed or digital materials as provided by the instructor without cost.

5.2 Recommended:

-1- Other textbooks and materials as recommended by the instructor based on the learning progression of the individual class and its members. There may be a cost to the student for these kinds of resources.

-2- Ralph Grabowski, The Illustrated AutoCAD 2010 Quick Reference, Lifton Park, NY: Delmar Cengage Learning,2010

Used copies are available from Abebooks.com for less than $5.00