Difference between revisions of "Template:Purchasing a computer"

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==Purchasing a computer==
 
==Purchasing a computer==
 
===Do I need to bring a computer to campus?===
 
===Do I need to bring a computer to campus?===
−
鶹Ƶ does not require students to bring their own computers to campus, however, many choose to. If you are unsure about purchasing a computer, we suggest that you spend some time on campus before making a decision.
+
鶹Ƶ does not require students to bring their own computers to campus, however, many choose to bring one. If you are unsure about purchasing a computer, we suggest that you spend some time on campus before making a decision.
  
 
===Should I get a laptop or a desktop computer?===
 
===Should I get a laptop or a desktop computer?===
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* Laptops are often more expensive than a comparable desktop.
 
* Laptops are often more expensive than a comparable desktop.
 
* Their smaller size and portability often make them more prone to theft and damage.
 
* Their smaller size and portability often make them more prone to theft and damage.
−
* Laptops are typically less powerful than desktop computers.
 
 
* Laptops are more difficult to upgrade, therefore making it necessary to replace it sooner.
 
* Laptops are more difficult to upgrade, therefore making it necessary to replace it sooner.
  
 
We suggest that your choice reflect your own lifestyle, habits, and personal preferences.
 
We suggest that your choice reflect your own lifestyle, habits, and personal preferences.
  
−
===What kind of computer should I get? [[Macintosh]], [[Windows]], or [[Linux]]?===
+
===What kind of computer should I get? [[Macintosh]], [[Chromebook]], or [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]]?===
−
Your platform choice should be determined by your relative comfort level and previous experience with each operating system. 鶹Ƶ owns and supports all three platforms, so the decision is completely yours to make.
+
Your platform choice should be determined by your relative comfort level and previous experience with each operating system. 鶹Ƶ owns and supports all platforms, so the decision is completely yours to make. If you are interested in a Google [[Chromebook]], please see our [/gts/Chromebook Chromebook web page]. Some textbooks come with software that is not web-based, where Chromebooks are not supported by the publisher. '''Please be aware that lower-end Chromebooks may not be satisfactory when using processor heavy apps such as Zoom.'''
  
 
===Are there any computer purchasing programs at 鶹Ƶ?===
 
===Are there any computer purchasing programs at 鶹Ƶ?===
−
鶹Ƶ does not sell computers to students, but does maintain a relationship with [http://www.dpbolvw.net/click-4433262-10862456 Apple, Inc.], [http://lenovo.com Lenovo] and [http://hp.com HP] allowing students to purchase machines at an educational discount direct from the vendor. '''Please use the following links to ensure you receive educational pricing.'''
+
{{Personal Computer Purchase Options}}
  
−
*Please visit the [http://www.dpbolvw.net/click-4433262-10862456 Apple Store for Education Website] or call 1-800-My-APPLE.
+
===Do I need to bring a [[router|wireless router]] to campus?===
−
*Please visit the [http://shoplenovo.i2.com/SEUILibrary/controller/e/usstudents/StdAffinityPortal/en_US/StdAffinity:Home?affinity=usstudents Lenovo Website] or call 1-877-222-6426.
+
No. Too many wireless access points in a small area can generate a substantial amount of interference, degrading everybody's wireless experience. For best performance, we recommend that students use the [[鶹Ƶ Wireless Network|college's wireless]]. It is available in all [[residence halls]].
−
*Please visit the [https://www.shopping.hp.com/webapp/shopping/saveAPPCustomer.do;HHOJSID=15c4KmpTqYlpwNkv1cGwkvJz38SWFSDrGvF85x7zqysr30gCQB1X!769079966?schoolIdName=01576296|GUSTAVUS%20ADOLPHUS%20COLLEGE, HP Academy Registration Website] or call 1-888-999-4747.
 
−
*Please visit the [http://www.Dell.com/鶹Ƶ Dell Student Store] or call 1-800-247-6819. Member ID: US1472684
 
  
−
'''Note: '''Almost all vendors have educational discounts for students.  All you have to do is ask.
+
===Can I bring a streaming device to campus?===
−
 
+
Yes, definitely! Please see our recommended streaming devices list - /gts/Streaming_Device. Devices such as a Smart TV, Smart Blu-ray players, Apple TVs, and the Nexus Player work well on our network to stream Netflix, Hulu, etc. However, Screen-casting from a cell phone/tablet to the device currently isn't supported. We recommend that when using these devices, you use an ethernet (RJ45) cable (provided free by Technology Services). If you haven't purchased a Blu-ray player or TV yet, look for a wired ethernet (RJ45) port on the back when purchasing.
−
Also, students are able to buy certain software and some hardware at educational discounts from stores and directly from their website such as Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Dreamweaver, InDesign, etc).  Remember to always ask for a student discount.  You might be asked to supply a student ID or email address.
 
−
 
 
−
* Purchase [http://www.dpbolvw.net/click-4433262-10862456 Microsoft Office] for Mac at the Apple Store for Education online.
 
−
* Purchase [http://www.dpbolvw.net/click-4433262-10862456 Mac OS X v10.6 Snow Leopard] at the Apple Store for Education online.
 
−
 
 
−
===Do I need to bring a [[router|wireless router]] to campus?===
 
−
No. Too many [[wireless access points]] in a small area can generate a substantial amount of interference, degrading everybody's wireless experience. For best performance, we recommend that students use the [[college's wireless]]. It is available in all [[residence halls]].
 
  
 
===What are the '''minimum requirements''' for the computer I bring to 鶹Ƶ?===
 
===What are the '''minimum requirements''' for the computer I bring to 鶹Ƶ?===
−
Before connecting to the campus network, all computers must have current [[virus protection]] and up-to-date [http://update.microsoft.com/ security updates]], along with the following list of minimum requirements:
+
Before connecting to the campus network, all computers must have current [[virus protection]] and up-to-date [http://update.microsoft.com/ security updates], along with the following list of minimum requirements:
 
<table class="fancy">
 
<table class="fancy">
  
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     <tr>
 
     <tr>
 
       <td> Operating System </td>
 
       <td> Operating System </td>
−
       <td> Windows XP/Vista </td>
+
       <td> Windows 11 </td>
−
       <td> System 10.6 or higher </td>
+
       <td> macOS 12 (Monterey) </td>
 
     </tr>
 
     </tr>
 
     <tr>
 
     <tr>
 
       <td> Networking </td>
 
       <td> Networking </td>
−
       <td colspan="2"> 10/100 base - T Ethernet card with RJ-45 connector. [http://wireless.gac.edu Wireless] access available in most campus spaces. </td>
+
       <td colspan="2"> '''5GHz Dual Band Wireless AC''' (aka A/B/G/N/AC or A/G/N/AC), Built-in 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45 connector) [http://wireless.gac.edu Wireless] access available in most campus spaces. </td>
 
     </tr>
 
     </tr>
 
     <tr>
 
     <tr>
 
       <td> Anti-Virus Software </td>
 
       <td> Anti-Virus Software </td>
−
       <td colspan="2">Microsoft Security Essentials or Windows Defender (free, built into Windows 8) </td>
+
       <td colspan="2">Microsoft Security Essentials or Windows Defender (free, built into Windows 8/10) </td>
 
     </tr>
 
     </tr>
 
     <tr>
 
     <tr>
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     <tr>
 
     <tr>
 
       <td> Operating System </td>
 
       <td> Operating System </td>
−
       <td> Windows 7 (any variety) </td>
+
       <td> Windows 11 (any variety) </td>
−
       <td> Macintosh OS 10.8 </td>
+
       <td> macOS 13 (Ventura) or newer </td>
 
     </tr>
 
     </tr>
 
     <tr>
 
     <tr>
 
       <td> RAM </td>
 
       <td> RAM </td>
−
       <td> 8 GB or higher </td>
+
       <td> 16 GB or higher </td>
−
       <td> 8 GB or higher </td>
+
       <td> 16 GB or higher </td>
  
 
     </tr>
 
     </tr>
 
     <tr>
 
     <tr>
 
       <td> Connectivity </td>
 
       <td> Connectivity </td>
−
       <td colspan="2">'''5GHz Dual Band Wireless N''' (aka A/B/G/N or A/G/N), Built-in 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45 connector) </td>
+
       <td colspan="2">'''5GHz Dual Band Wireless AC''' (aka A/B/G/N/AC or A/G/N/AC), Built-in 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45 connector) </td>
 
     </tr>
 
     </tr>
 
     <tr>
 
     <tr>
 
       <td> Processor </td>
 
       <td> Processor </td>
−
       <td> Intel Ivy Bridge i5 </td>
+
       <td> Current Gen Intel i5 </td>
−
       <td> Intel Ivy Bridge i5 </td>
+
       <td> M series processor</td>
 +
    </tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
      <td> Hard Drive </td>
 +
      <td> 256GB SSD or larger </td>
 +
      <td> 256GB SSD or larger </td>
 
     </tr>
 
     </tr>
 
     <tr>
 
     <tr>
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Generally the "business class" models are more durable and come with longer warranties.
 
Generally the "business class" models are more durable and come with longer warranties.
  
−
===What did students bring to campus in September of 2013?===
+
===Connecting to the 鶹Ƶ Wireless Network===
−
 
+
There is no longer a registration process required to access the 鶹Ƶ wireless networks.
−
Roughly 50% of first year students brought a Macintosh computer to campus, and 50% brought a Windows-based computer. The number of Macintosh computers brought to campus has gone up steadily over the last few years.
 
−
 
 
−
Students in the fall of 2013 brought mostly laptops to campus, while a small percentage brought desktop computers.
 
−
 
 
−
===What do I need to connect to the 鶹Ƶ network?===
 
−
For your computer to access the network with a wired connection, you will need an [[Ethernet card]] (for all new computers this is standard), and an [[Ethernet cable]]. '''Ethernet cables will be provided to all first-year students&mdash;they will be available at the Technology Services office in [[Olin]] for free.''' If you purchase a Macbook Air or other ultrabooks, we have USB-ethernet adapters available for your use to utilize the wired network.
 
  
−
To access the wireless network, you will need a computer with a built-in or external [[wireless card]], and be in range of a [[wireless]] signal. All laptops today will have a wireless card pre-installed. It is possible to add a wireless card to a desktop computer, however plugging in your computer to the wired Ethernet will provide you better results.
+
===How do I have the best wireless network experience at 鶹Ƶ?===
 +
When buying a computer, double check that it comes with a 5GHz wireless card built-in. While Macintosh laptops come with them standard, most PC laptops do not come with 5GHz wireless cards in the preconfigured models in stores. Find out if you can order the laptop with a 5GHz wireless card, or purchase your computer straight from the manufacturer.
 +
[https://gustavus.edu/gts/Tips_for_Purchasing_a_5_Ghz_Windows_Laptop Purchasing a 5GHz laptop]

Latest revision as of 09:30, 21 August 2024

Purchasing a computer

Do I need to bring a computer to campus?

鶹Ƶ does not require students to bring their own computers to campus, however, many choose to bring one. If you are unsure about purchasing a computer, we suggest that you spend some time on campus before making a decision.

Should I get a laptop or a desktop computer?

There are many advantages to bringing a laptop to campus:

  • They are easier to transport, allowing you to take notes in class, or do homework from virtually anywhere. When problems arise, it's much easier to bring a laptop to the Technology Helpline for quick help or virus removal than a bulky desktop machine.
  • With the convenience of the 鶹Ƶ Wireless Network, you'll be able to access the Internet anywhere on campus.

On the other hand, laptops have a few disadvantages to desktops:

  • Laptops are often more expensive than a comparable desktop.
  • Their smaller size and portability often make them more prone to theft and damage.
  • Laptops are more difficult to upgrade, therefore making it necessary to replace it sooner.

We suggest that your choice reflect your own lifestyle, habits, and personal preferences.

What kind of computer should I get? Macintosh, Chromebook, or Windows?

Your platform choice should be determined by your relative comfort level and previous experience with each operating system. 鶹Ƶ owns and supports all platforms, so the decision is completely yours to make. If you are interested in a Google Chromebook, please see our Chromebook web page. Some textbooks come with software that is not web-based, where Chromebooks are not supported by the publisher. Please be aware that lower-end Chromebooks may not be satisfactory when using processor heavy apps such as Zoom.

Are there any computer purchasing programs at 鶹Ƶ?

鶹Ƶ does not sell computers to students, faculty or staff but does maintain a relationship with , , and allowing community members to purchase computers and supplies at an educational discount direct from the vendor. Please use the following links to ensure you receive educational pricing.

  • Please visit the or call 1-800-My-APPLE.
  • Please visit the .
  • Please visit the or call 1-800-987-3555.

Note: Almost all vendors have educational discounts for students, faculty and staff. All you have to do is ask.

FREE SOFTWARE Microsoft Office 365 is currently available for FREE to download for current 鶹Ƶ students and employees.

Also, community members are able to buy certain software and some hardware at educational discounts from stores and directly from their website such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Dreamweaver, InDesign, etc). Remember to always ask for an academic discount. You might be asked to supply an ID or email address.

Do I need to bring a wireless router to campus?

No. Too many wireless access points in a small area can generate a substantial amount of interference, degrading everybody's wireless experience. For best performance, we recommend that students use the college's wireless. It is available in all residence halls.

Can I bring a streaming device to campus?

Yes, definitely! Please see our recommended streaming devices list - /gts/Streaming_Device. Devices such as a Smart TV, Smart Blu-ray players, Apple TVs, and the Nexus Player work well on our network to stream Netflix, Hulu, etc. However, Screen-casting from a cell phone/tablet to the device currently isn't supported. We recommend that when using these devices, you use an ethernet (RJ45) cable (provided free by Technology Services). If you haven't purchased a Blu-ray player or TV yet, look for a wired ethernet (RJ45) port on the back when purchasing.

What are the minimum requirements for the computer I bring to 鶹Ƶ?

Before connecting to the campus network, all computers must have current virus protection and up-to-date , along with the following list of minimum requirements:

Requirement Windows Macintosh
Operating System Windows 11 macOS 12 (Monterey)
Networking 5GHz Dual Band Wireless AC (aka A/B/G/N/AC or A/G/N/AC), Built-in 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45 connector) access available in most campus spaces.
Anti-Virus Software Microsoft Security Essentials or Windows Defender (free, built into Windows 8/10)
Current Security Patches Run Software Update

What are the recommended specifications for my computer at 鶹Ƶ?

Recommendation Windows Macintosh
Operating System Windows 11 (any variety) macOS 13 (Ventura) or newer
RAM 16 GB or higher 16 GB or higher
Connectivity 5GHz Dual Band Wireless AC (aka A/B/G/N/AC or A/G/N/AC), Built-in 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45 connector)
Processor Current Gen Intel i5 M series processor
Hard Drive 256GB SSD or larger 256GB SSD or larger
Warranty 3 year warranty AppleCare Protection Plan


Generally the "business class" models are more durable and come with longer warranties.

Connecting to the 鶹Ƶ Wireless Network

There is no longer a registration process required to access the 鶹Ƶ wireless networks.

How do I have the best wireless network experience at 鶹Ƶ?

When buying a computer, double check that it comes with a 5GHz wireless card built-in. While Macintosh laptops come with them standard, most PC laptops do not come with 5GHz wireless cards in the preconfigured models in stores. Find out if you can order the laptop with a 5GHz wireless card, or purchase your computer straight from the manufacturer. Purchasing a 5GHz laptop

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