Miscellaneous FAQ

Why can’t I log into a computer?

Faculty/Staff: If you are using a Mac that was assigned to you, you should be logging into your computer using a local account previously given to you. If you do not remember your login information, or you want to reset your password, please submit a help ticket at CAD-helpdesk.rit.edu.

If you are using a Windows-based computer, you should be logging in using your RIT username and password. If it does not work, verify your computer has a network connection (look for an Ethernet cable running to the back of it, or verify your wireless is turned on), and at the login window, the domain is set to “MAIN”. If it still does not work, your RIT account may be having issues, such as an expired password. If there is a problem with your RIT account, you will have to contact the ITS Helpdesk or visit them in 7B-1113 for assistance.

Students: You should be logging into the lab computers using your RIT username and password. If you are unable to log in, verify the computer has an Ethernet cable running to it (in the jack labeled “1”, if there are two on the computer). If you still cannot log in, more than likely it is an issue with the computer itself, so please file a help ticket at CAD-helpdesk.rit.edu, and we will take care of the issue as soon as we can.

In more rare cases, there may be a problem with your RIT account, such as your password has expired. You will need to speak to the ITS Helpdesk in 7B-1113 and work with them to fix the issue.

How do I use the Universal Type Client?

Please refer to this link on how to use the Universal Type Client, or download the How-To PDF. (RIT login required)

What computers are recommended for the degree programs at CAD?

We suggest the following desktops and laptops for the Mac and PC platforms:

Mid-Range Mac Laptop:  Mid-Range PC Laptop:
14″ MacBook Pro ($1849)

  • M1 Pro 8C CPU 14C GPU
  • 16 GB Unified Memory
  • 512 GB SSD
 

15″ Dell XPS 15 ($1899)

  • Intel Core i7 @ 4.6GHz
  • 16 GB DDR4
  • 512GB M.2 NVMe SSD
  • NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050, 4GB VRAM
Mid-Range Mac Desktop:  Mid-Range PC Desktop:
iMac 24″ ($1599)

  • M1 8C CPU 8C GPU
  • 16 GB Unified Memory
  • 512 GB SSD
 

Dell XPS Desktop ($2100)

  • Intel Core i5 3.9GHz (4.9GHz boost) 
  • 16GB DDR4
  • 512GB M.2 NVMe SSD
  • NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti 8GB VRAM
  • 24″ Dell 24 Monitor – SE2422H