CADGIS RESEARCH LABORATORY

The Computer Aided Design & Geographic Information Systems (CADGIS) Research Laboratory at Louisiana State University is dedicated to teaching and research in the areas of computer aided design, geographic information systems, remote sensing, image processing, and other computer applications in art, architecture, design, geography and anthropology, interior design and landscape architecture. Founded in 1984, this multidisciplinary computer laboratory is maintained by the College of Art and Design and the Department of Geography and Anthropology. It also provides specialized support to other academic and research units of the University, to state and federal agencies, and to private organizations. The CADGIS Lab has 6 distinct computer labs that are open 7 days per week.

The Cypress Lab, Magnolia Lab, and Pine Lab each have about 25 computer workstations plus a instructor's machine and serve as the main instructional classrooms. A SmartBoard at the front of each lab allows the instructor to interact with computer applications on a screen viewable by the entire class. The computers have a wide range of computer applications, from Word-processing (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Excel) to web design (DreamWeaver, Reality Studio); from GIS (Geomedia, ArcView) and geographic image processing (Imagine) to graphic design (PhotoShop, Freehand, Illustrator); from CAD (AutoCAD, MicroStation) to 3d design (3D Studio, FormZ). Students find these classrooms exceptionally useful when trying to complete complex design projects. Professors routinely reserve these labs to provide a hands-on instructional and project development environment for students.

All of the computers in the CADGIS Lab are connected to print servers that allow for a variety of print options. CADGIS printers include 8.5x11 or 11x17, black-and-white or color as well as larger format (up to 44"). For larger printing, there are color 36" inkjet printers and even a large, 44" inkjet capable of printing on media including canvas.

The Kudzu Lab has 9 computer workstations for use when all the above mentioned labs are reserved. This lab provides students a place to work when in a hurry. Access to this lab is not restricted and is open to all CADGIS users.

The Iris Lab has 7 computer workstations with Adobe PhotoShop CS installed. This lab is restricted for use as in scanning. Therefore, only students that have taken our scanner course are allowed use. The lab features six 35mm film scanners and six 32-Bit flatbed scanners. A film recorder is also available for student use.

The Research area has 8 computer workstations for use with processor-intensive work such as GIS, animation, modeling, rendering, and complex 3 dimensional graphics. Access to this Lab is restricted to research personnel and requires prior appoval.

There is always a friendly staff member on hand to offer assistance and/or answer questions and so please feel free to make use of their services. Students and professors are encouraged to use our Lab for research and instructional purposes. Also, be sure to check the CADGIS website regularly for lab updates.