| Should I bring a computer? The Citadel does not require cadets to have personal computers in their rooms. The campus has first-rate computing resources-including ten computer labs in our classroom buildings, a small lab in each barracks, multimedia presentation classrooms, a multimedia support center, and a fully automated library. In addition, every cadet in every barracks room has access to a high-speed connection to the campus network and the Internet. Other than the technology fee you pay each semester, there is no charge for using the computer labs, campus network, or Internet access. However, a large percentage of our students choose to bring a computer due to convenience. What brand of computer should I buy or bring? Why? We strongly urge all cadets who bring a PC to purchase a computer from a Citadel supported vendor (Dell Computers) running the Microsoft Windows XP Professional version of the operating system. A standard configuration computer is available from supported vendors at special pricing for students. This PC is configured to meet the Citadel's requirements, allow for growth during the students' enrollment at The Citadel, and provide a good value. If you bring another kind of computer, we will supply a network connection address, but otherwise, you are on your own. Technical Assistance Policy Why shouldn't I purchase an HP or Apple or bring a computer that is not a brand the Citadel services? Computer technicians at the Citadel are certified to service Dell computers and there is no charge for our technicians to work on the computer as long as the warranty is current and the student is enrolled and living in the barracks. If you bring another brand of computer and it breaks, you must arrange service with the vendor directly to repair it and pay for all associated costs. Why are the prices on the recommended systems higher than advertised on the normal vendor Web pages? The recommended systems are configured with up to 4 years of warranty and include Microsoft Office 2007 Professional software. Why do I need that much warranty? The Citadel can provide free technical service and repairs to the Dell brand P.C.’s under warranty. If not under warranty additional charges for parts apply. Should I buy or bring a Notebook or Desktop computer? Do I need a printer? Bring a desktop or notebook computer - it is a matter of preference.
There is a barracks network printer. You may consider bringing
a small Ink Jet printer if you wish. Locks for laptop/notebook PCs are recommended. Purchase on-line or from the campus gift shop. What specifications are required for the computer? Most students can get a standard PC for classes. Engineering students may need additional Memory, Storage or Graphics capability. Check on dell.com/citadel for different recommended models. Do I need Microsoft Office? Most students can purchase Microsoft Office from the vendor of their choice. Usually purchasing the student version is the most economical answer. We recommend Office 2007. If your son/daughter is planning to be a business major or minor you should purchase Microsoft Office Professional because it includes Microsoft Access (an application they will need for their courses). What happens if my computer breaks? Our technical support team services supported vendor PC's exclusively. If you bring a different brand of PC, or if you purchase a computer from a retail vendor rather than directly from the supported vendor (for example you buy the PC from Best Buy, Sam's Club, etc.) we will supply you with a network connection; but, you must abide by the technical assistance policy you purchase with the PC to get support if it breaks. Please review our Technical Assistance Policy for more information about software and hardware support. What else will I need? A surge-suppressor is also highly recommended
to protect equipment from damage during power surges and stormy
weather. |
