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Purchasing a Computer

Do I need to bring a computer to campus?

Most people bring computers to campus, however, it is not absolutely necessary. If you are unsure about purchasing a computer, we suggest that you spend some time on campus before coming to a decision.

Should I get a laptop or a desktop computer?

There are many advantages to buying a laptop. They are easier to transport, allowing you to take notes in class, or do homework from virtually anywhere. With the added convenience of the GACwireless network, you'll be able to access the internet from a growing number of hotspots across campus. When problems arise, it's much easier to drop a laptop off at the Technology Helpline for repair, setup, or virus removal than a bulky desktop machine.

Laptops are, however, often more expensive than a comparable desktop. Their smaller size and portability often make them more prone to theft and damage.

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

What kind of computer should I get? Apple 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 both platforms, so the decision is completely yours to make.

Are there any type of computer purchasing programs at �鶹��Ƶ?

• You are able to purchase an Apple computer at an educational discount on-line.

While �鶹��Ƶ does not have a "recommended model" for student PCs, we have put forth an exhaustive effort to determine the "correct" laptop for faculty and staff use, and have subsequently negotiated an excellent price.

We are able to offer the same significantly discounted price to �鶹��Ƶ students.

The laptops we are purchasing for faculty and staff this year are Lenovo Thinkpads (formerly the IBM PC division)

• LENOVO THINKPAD T60 1951 - CORE DUO T2400 1.83 GHZ - 14.1
• RAM: 512MB
• Drives: 60 GB - Serial ATA-150 - 5400 rpm, CD-RW / DVD-ROM combo
• Networking: Gigabit Ethernet, Wireless ABG
• Battery Life (spec): 6hr
• Dimensions (WxDxH): 12.2 in x 10 in x 1.2 in
• Operating System: Microsoft Windows XP Professional
• Manufacturer Warranty: 3 years warranty

Cost: 50 or 00 with accidental damage coverage

Do I need to bring a wireless router to campus?

No. Too many wireless access points within a certain area can generate a substantial amount of interference. For best performance, we recommend that students use the college's wireless, and forego bringing, or setting up their own.

What kind of computers do most people get?

According to the results of the 2005 New Student Survey, computer ownership could be roughly broken down as follows:

• No Computer - 26 students - 5.31%
• Windows Laptop - 322 students - 65.71%
• Windows Desktop - 85 students - 17.35%
• Macintosh Laptop - 45 students - 9.18%
• Macintosh Desktop - 12 students - 2.45%

490 Total Surveyed

What do I need to connect to the �鶹��Ƶ network?

To access the "wired" network, you will need an ethernet card (for most new computers this is standard), and an ethernet cable. Ethernet cables can be purchased on campus at the Book Mark for a very reasonable price. A length of 25' should be adequate for most students and situations.

To access the "wireless" network, you will need a computer with a built-in or external wireless card, and have sufficient proximity to a wireless signal.

Software

Things to do BEFORE you get to �鶹��Ƶ!

1. If using a PC with Windows, make sure your "Windows Updates" are current.
2. Ensure that your machine is protected from viruses by using a recent Anti-Virus client with up-to-date definitions.
3. Verify that you have all of the necessary software documentation, serial numbers, and installation CDs.
4. During any transition, it's wise to make backups of any critical data.

Do we need Microsoft Office on our computers?

At �鶹��Ƶ, all faculty, staff, and employees use the Microsoft Office Suite on both Windows and Macintosh platforms.

Because Microsoft Office Suite is installed on every lab computer, it is not necessary for you to purchase it. However, for convenience, most students do choose to have it on their personal computers.

If you decided not to purchase or install the Microsoft Office Suite you should always be mindful of potential problems. Compatibility issues often arise when using alternative software to create documents that are later e-mailed to professors, and others.

Is there a student edition available?

Yes. A number of retail stores offer the student edition. In most cases, you will need proof of your status as a student in order to purchase this version.

Should I have Microsoft Office preloaded with the new computer that I am going to order?

If you are able to add the student edition of Microsoft Office to your order for a reasonable amount, then do so. If they don't offer the student edition, or you're concerned that the price is inflated, you can always purchase it separately elsewhere.

Anti-Virus Software

Should we come with an anti-virus product?

It is recommended that you use an anti-virus product before you come to campus. When you come to campus, you will need to remove your current product and install ours (there is no extra charge to you for this).

If you have purchased a subscription for an anti-virus product and would like to use that instead, please contact the Technology Helpline for instructions on registering your computer. Keep in mind, when your subscription is over, you must renew or uninstall your anti-virus software and install ours.

Nonetheless, we still highly recommend uninstalling your current software and installing ours. When you have our copy installed, you have a 4-year subscription instead of the typical 1-year subscription.

Please remember that our ability to support you and your computer in the event of a problem is greatly enhanced when you are utilizing our standard anti-virus product.

Does �鶹��Ƶ provide anti-virus software?

Yes. �鶹��Ƶ provides a full version of Symantec Anti-Virus for all incoming students. It is available for download during the online computer registration. You must uninstall your previous copy of any Anti-Virus software before installing our anti-virus. Failure to do so will result in software problems that may result in OS instability.

What can I do to protect my computer from spyware?

Symantec Anti-virus, the anti-virus software �鶹��Ƶ provides to students, does provide some protection against spyware and adware, however, it is not perfect.

The best way to avoid getting your computer infected with spyware and adware is by not installing "high-risk" applications like peer to peer music downloading software, and other suspect "freeware," and "shareware" programs.

Connecting to the Internet

Recommended Connection

When connecting to the �鶹��Ƶ network from your dorm room, we recommend using the "wired" connection as it provides a faster and more reliable Internet connection. You can consider wireless an added convenience when you're elsewhere on campus.

How many wired ports are in each room in the Residence Halls?

This depends on the room that you are assigned. However, in most cases, for first-year students, it will be one per person. The wired ports are the recommended way for connecting your computer to the Internet while in the rooms. It is more reliable and faster than the wireless connections.

Is there wireless in the Residence Halls?

Please see the link below first. In most residence halls, wireless connectivity is available.

See also

• Residence Hall Wireless Pilot Project

Can I bring a wireless router to campus?

Due to the interference that can be caused by too many wireless access points in a small area, we recommend that students use the wireless provided by the college and NOT bring their own.

Where else is the wireless network?

For an up-to-date listing of where the GACwireless network is located, please visit .

How do I connect to the network?

1. Turn on the computer.
2. Plug your ethernet cord into the wall jack (the wide one).
3. Open up a web browser.
4. You should be automatically redirected to a registration screen.
5. Follow the on-screen directions.

You may have to register your computer more than once. You will need to register your computer when you access the wireless network, the wired network, and when you plug your computer into any other buildings' network jacks.

How many networked devices can I register?

You can register as many as you would like.

How do I connect my XBox to the Internet so I can use the XBox Live feature?

Please call the Technology Helpline to help you register this device as well as any other type of video game console on the �鶹��Ƶ network. You will need to provide the MAC address of your XBox when calling.

Support

Is there anybody to help me connect to the Internet when I come to campus?

Yes, the Technology Helpline is here to help you! To contact us, dial 6111 on your campus phone or 507-933-6111 from your cell phone or from off-campus.

Can the Helpline visit my room and help me connect to the �鶹��Ƶ network?

During Fall orientation for the first-year students, the Technology Helpline will visit the Residence Halls, visit your room, and offer connectivity help. They will also help install Windows Updates and install the �鶹��Ƶ-provided Anti-Virus.

During the rest of the year, the Technology Helpline does not visit students' rooms.

Printing

Do we need personal printers?

It is not necessary that you purchase or bring a printer to campus if you would like to print just black and white. Please see the information located on HP Laserjet 4000 to set up your computer to print to the residence hall printer.

If you need to print many things in color, such as pictures, it would be beneficial for you to bring a printer with you.

Do we have access to campus owned printers?

Yes, there are printers in the Residence Halls that are available for you to print to from your personal computer in your room. Please read the information located on HP Laserjet 4000 to learn how to configure your personal computer to print to the printer in your building.

Is there any additional fees for printing in computer labs at �鶹��Ƶ?

No, printing to campus-owned printers in any of the computer labs is included in your �鶹��Ƶ tuition.

Other

Is there an online storage space for me to save my files?

Yes, every student has an online storage space that they can access from anywhere. This includes anywhere that you have web access around the world. This is referred to your Home Directory or Z-Drive.

Where are the computer labs?

See also

• Computer lab hours