[Which computer?] [Buying a computer] [What software?] [Using the computer]

What is SCI?
Beginning fall 2001, all freshmen students are required to own a personal computer. Transfer students are subject to the requirements that are in place for students at the same class level into which they enter. This requirement ensures that students have convenient access to the VCU computing environment and to information on the Internet.

SCI is more than just a requirement that students have computers. Technology Services provides support and resources to the Initiative through the Help Desk, Open use computer labs, wireless network, multi-media enabled classrooms and software distribution services. We are constantly upgrading--take a look at what we're doing this summer.

Why have a computer requirement?
Technology is becoming an increasingly important part of modern society. Preparing the workers of tomorrow to succeed in a highly technical world is a necessary part of the educational mission of VCU.

"Our faculty and students increasingly rely on e-mail, the Internet, digital media, and other instructional technology to complement and enhance classroom, laboratory, and studio learning. With a personal computer, every student will have powerful and convenient access from their homes or their dorm rooms to the rich array of learning resources available on our campus and the World Wide Web." Dr. Eugene Trani President, Virginia Commonwealth University

Why is there a university-wide computer requirement?
There are many reasons why VCU has had a computer requirement since the Fall of 2001 (starting with freshman and transfer students of the same class): students become skilled in the use of technology, allows the university to have infrastructure in place (Technology Help Desk, open use computer labs, multi-media enabled classrooms, etc.), every residence hall room is wired with Ethernet connections, long distance learning and complements the educational mission of VCU to prepare students for employment and life itself in today's world of technology. A personal computer allows the user access to the Internet, e-mail and many learning resources at their own convenience and without having to worry about borrowing a friend's computer or using a computer lab, which may be closed or full when you need it. A few of the academic programs have had mandatory computer requirements for years. The requirement also allows a student to add the cost of a computer to their school supplies for financial aid consideration.

Can I use the computer I already have?
You may use the computer you already have if it meets the minimum computer requirements . Please note that older equipment (with less RAM and processor speed) may not run required software efficiently and will certainly "age" faster than a newer model.

What if I am an undecided major or may want to change my major? How will that affect my computer purchase decision?
The minimum computer specifications that VCU recommends will enable you to do your coursework, especially in your first years. Most of your requirements will be word processing, e-mail, presentations, and the Internet. Some departments or colleges require that their students use specific platforms (Apple or Windows) and a laptop or desktop as they progress in their studies. If you think you know the major you are leaning toward, you may go to the schools page to find school and departmental information that will be useful.

Should I purchase a laptop or desktop computer?
This is largely a choice of personal preference as there are advantages and disadvantages to both. As of today there are only a few curriculums that require a laptop. Laptops, sometimes called notebooks, have the following advantages: they save space on a small desk or in a small room, the ability to take your computer most anywhere, the ability to take notes in class or work together on projects in a study group, take your computer with you on break, use your computer in class for presentations, and wireless Internet access (requires a wireless card) on both the VCU and VCU Medical Center allows you to use your computer in more and more locations. Some of the disadvantages include: the smaller portable nature of the unit makes it prone to theft (security cables are available and you can check with you homeowner's insurance for coverage), the screen is usually smaller (12-14 inches) they tend to cost 30-50% more than a desktop and may not be as upgradeable as a desktop.

Desktops are less expensive than comparable features on a laptop, offer larger displays (usually17-21 inches), larger hard drives, faster processors, have a larger keyboard and are usually less of a security theft risk because of their size and are easily upgradeable.

During last year's major selling season Online@VCU sold 43% laptops and 57% desktops.

If you do choose a laptop, make sure you read the security question on this page.

When should I buy my computer?
It is strongly recommended that you buy your computer a few months before the school year starts and not wait until the beginning of the semester or when you move into a dorm room. Plan to have your computer arrive when you have the time to give it a workout. This allows you to get comfortable with the computer and possibly load any software you may need and learn to use it. The start of the semester is hectic enough and you should do anything you can do to simplify the process. If you have the computer delivered to your home and are moving into a dorm room or local apartment, be sure to bring all of the documentation and media with you as you might need it for support purposes.

If I buy a new computer won't it be obsolete in 3 months?
As long as your computer can do what you need it to do for you, it is not obsolete. There will always be a computer model faster and cheaper that the one you just bought. It is important to consider not only your present but your future needs and will you be able to upgrade when you need to. Purchase the most powerful computer you can reasonably afford and then plan on a technology refresh at the end of the second or third year (mid-way through your academic career).

What is the difference between a "business class" and "home class" Windows based computer?
When you are comparing prices and features on the various brands of computers you need to know the difference between a business class and home class computer. Many manufacturers, such as Compaq, Dell, Lenovo and Hewlett-Packard to name a few, have two different PC lines. The business class computer will tend to cost a little more but VCU offers the Dell Optiplex Desktops and Dell Latitude Laptops for the following reasons. On a home class computer the components frequently change during the course of a model year and therefore can be difficult to upgrade. In addition, some retailers will purchase obsolete home class models and offer them at drastically reduced prices, which can mean that replacement parts for these systems are hard to find.

VCU buys and recommends the business class line of computers. The components are typically of a higher quality and the components stay consistent for a longer period of time during the model year. As an example, these units run 24X7 in our computer labs and take the abuse of many users with a minimal amount of downtime. Another factor to consider is that if you are moving into a dorm or apartment and will need to put an Ethernet card into your computer, we have found less problems with the installation of the card and the connectivity to the network with a business class unit. Another factor is that manufacturers such as Dell offer 3 year on-site warranty service included in their business class (Optiplex and Latitude) lines of computers.

Should I buy a name-brand computer, or will a no-name or "white-box" system do just as well?
It is better to buy the name-brand computer. The level of support from both the vendor and the technology support staff on campus is better for major brands. The price difference usually becomes insignificant when you compare all of the specifications, quality of parts, ability to upgrade, warranty and the fact of whether the no-name vendor will be around in 2-3 years to stand behind the product.

The $699 PC you see in the ad today may seem like a good deal but will you be able to upgrade or expand your system? Don't underestimate the ways in which you will use the computer. Most any system will surf the Internet or do word processing but what if you want to edit some photos, upgrade your processor or RAM, upgrade to a new version of Windows, do Web hosting or add additional hard drive capacity. Will you be able to do it? Your uses for the computer are only going to grow once you have it and you should be able to expand with it and not have to buy another system or feel frustrated with the one you have.

Does VCU offer virus protection for free?
Yes, as virus protection software is a necessity, VCU has purchased a site license that will allow any current student, faculty of staff member with a current VCUCard to download Symantec's Norton Anti-Virus off the Internet for free. Visit the virus information page for more information. You may also purchase the full retail version, which contains a few more bells and whistles and allows you to use the software when you are no longer affiliated with VCU from Online@VCU at a discounted price.

VCU is focusing on Microsoft Office. Is that offered at a discount?
Yes, under the Microsoft Student Select Agreement, Online@VCU offers Microsoft products (license and media) at substantial discounts. MS Office Professional is $69.95, this includes Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, Access, Publisher and Business Contact Manager for Outlook. The Mac version of Office is $69.95. These are all full versions (license and media) at academic prices. The Microsoft XP Professional OS (operating system) Upgrade is $69.95.

Who is eligible to buy hardware and software from Online@VCU?
To purchase hardware, you must be an accepted student at VCU, current VCU student, faculty or staff member. To purchase software you must be a current student, faculty or staff member with a valid ID card from a degree seeking institution.

What is Educational Version Software?
Most educational versions of software are the same as their retail counterparts. The only difference is that educational versions of software are to be used for personal or academic purposes and not for commercial gain. Some software is different from retail versions in functionality but these differences are clearly noted on the box. The educational price is usually about 50% off of regular retail. For a partial list of what we carry and the prices, go to the Software link on the Online@VCU website.

What if something goes wrong with my computer?
VCU operates a repair shop on campus - Online@VCU Technology Service Center. We are factory authorized to work on Dell and Apple but we work on all makes (major brands as well as "clones") and models. This includes the repair and upgrade of your computer and accessories as well as software diagnostics. The educational discount rate for students is $35.00 an hour for non-warranty repairs.

How do I connect my computer to the Internet?
If you are on-campus you will need a 10/100 BaseT Ethernet (RJ45) card in your computer and an ethernet cable (usually 25 ft.). This will allow you to access the campus network. This connection is included in your housing contract.

If you live off-campus you have 3 options:

• Dial-up: if you have a land-line phone, you can connect with your phone line. You will need a 56Kbps v90 modem in your computer, a RJ11 phone patch cable and an Internet Service Provider (ISP). There are many ISPs to choose from but you may want to consider Online@VCU which has a program which allows you unlimited Internet service as low as $9.75 per month. Visit Online@VCU for more details. This is the slowest and least expensive option
• DSL: if you have a land-line phone and your location qualifies, you can contract for DSL service, usually through your phone company. Online@VCU offers this service through Verizon if you have a Verizon phone line. You will need an ethernet card installed on your computer (this is standard in business-class machines and often included in consumer class machines). You will also need a DSL modem, which is often provided for free or at a low cost through promotions from the DSL service provider.
• Cable: if you have cable TV service, you can also have a high-speed cable connection installed. Often, this is the best choice for those who rely on cell phones and do not have a land-line, because the cost is less than having a phone line AND and ISP service. This service is provided by your cable company (in Richmond, that is probably Comcast). You should contact your cable provider for details.

If you are moving in the dorm as a freshman you might want to consider that most students only stay in the dorms on campus 1-2 years and have both a modem and an ethernet card installed as you might need the modem when you are not on campus any longer.

What happens if I lose my computer or it is stolen?
Theft is not a huge problem at VCU, but, as in all aspect of American life, it is a reality. Because of their nature, laptops are easy to "walk off with" and students need to be careful and keep an eye on them at all times. We recommend that students with laptops purchase and use a laptop lock; these are standard for all laptops and available most places computers are sold, including Online@VCU.

Students living in the residence halls need to make sure they keep their rooms locked. Most thefts from the residence halls happen from unlocked rooms.

The VCU Police department operates Operation PC ID as a theft prevention program. Please visit that website to learn how you can participate and enroll your computer in the Database.

Students and their parents may wish to consider insurance coverage for the computer. This can be incorporated as a rider on homeowner's or renter's insurance. It is not automatic, so be sure to check with your agent.

Want even more information? VCU's School of Pharmacy, which requires laptops for all of its students, has put up this handy Laptop Security Page!

Special thanks to the folks at Online@VCU who provided many of these questions and answers. They are helpful folks, the sales people are students who don't work on commission, and profits are returned to the school.