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Buying a Computer

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Information on Buying a Computer

 

Buying a new computer

Although Millersville has no university-wide requirement to own one, most students do and find it a tremendous help. If you decide to bring a computer from home or if you are in the market to buy one, the guidelines in the tables below will help to ensure that you have the right stuff.

Millersville has a purchasing agreement with Lenovo.  Special pricing can be obtained by going to:
Lenovo's Website

Apple Computer also offers education discounts.  Go to the Apple Student Site for educational pricing and help selecting a system.

Windows PC
Component Basics
CPU 1.8 GHz or Higher
RAM 2GB or Higher
Hard Drive 80GB or Higher
Operating System Windows XP or Vista
Ethernet Yes (standard on most models)
Wireless Yes (standard on most models)
Macintosh
Component Basics
CPU 2 GHz or Higher
RAM 1GB or Higher
Hard Drive 80GB or Higher
Operating System Mac OS 10.5
Ethernet Built-in
Wireless Built-in

Minimum System Requirements

If you already have a computer that you plan on bringing with you to campus the minumum requirements are in the following table.

Minimum System Requirements

Windows PC Macintosh
Operating System  Windows XP or higher
 Mac OS X 10.2
CPU  1 GHz
 G4
RAM  256MB 256MB
Hard Drive  20 GB
 20 GB
Ethernet  Yes Yes

Do I Need Any Software

 
Software Information

MU does not require any particular software, but most students will need software for word processing, spreadsheets, and browsing the web. We recommend purchasing the Microsoft Office suite. Microsoft Works is not equivalent and is not supported on campus.

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Laptop vs. Desktop

 

A majority of students are now purchasing a laptop.  When you purchase a new system, base your decision on your lifestyle and the demands of your academic program. The laptop may be attractive to for its mobility. Desktop systems are more easily upgraded, less likely to be dropped and less vulnerable to theft. Replacement parts for desktops are less expensive than laptop replacement parts. You may also need to think about long term investment. If you want a mouse and keyboard, (accessories included with desktops) you may need to purchase these items in addition to the purchase of a laptop.

Recommendation

 

Information Technology recommends purchasing from a major brand such as Lenovo, Apple, Dell, HP etc.  When you purchase from a large vendor you usually have better warranty support in case your computer requires repair. 

Most vendors offer educational discounts from their websites.

Millersville has a purchasing agreement with Lenovo.  Special pricing can be obtained by going to:
Lenovo's Website

Apple Computer also offers education discounts.  Go to the Apple Student Site for educational pricing and help selecting a system.