Computer Purchase
Information to help you decide what computer to get.
Laptop or Desktop
- A laptop can be brought on road trips and to the library. This makes a laptop the prefered choice for a student.
- A laptop is more likely to be stolen or damaged (have a regular backup/duplicate procedure in place).
- Laptops are more expensive than desktops (usually about 50% more).
Mac or Windows
- Look at your environment - who are you going to interact with and who are you going to ask for help.
- What are you going to do. Example: Author music or video means Mac. Everything else could go either way.
- A Windows-based system has a much wider array of software and support, than a Mac-based system.
- A Windows-based system is the target of over 95% of the ad and virus attacks.
- Both environments have school needs covered.
Wireless Notes
- For Laptops, you need wireless.
- Many of the buildings on campus have wireless access ("AirBears").
- Most Dorms are hard-wired for internet access. Some are getting wireless.
- Many hotels provide wireless access; if not, then they usually provide hard-wired access.
Hardware Recommendations:
- Even a low-end system offered by all major manufacturers is more than adequate.
- The
Scholars WorkStation has both Apple and Dell systems at a
reasonable price. And they're the place for students to get their
systems serviced. Here's some examples of their pricing:
-
- Desktop, Apple iMac for $1150 and $1400.
- Desktop, Dell Studio One 19 for $1050 that includes a 18.5" touch-screen.
- Laptop: MacBook for $950, that would be excellent for a
student. MacBook Pros from $1100 - $2300, for more "specs", with
the possibly one worthwhile option of a bigger screen. The
MacBook Air seems an illogical choice at $1400 and $1700.
- Laptop: Dell laptops from $350 to $1170.
- Desktop, Apple iMac for $1150 and $1400.
- Printer: A monochrome (black only) Laserjet is ultimately a better value over inkjets. HP and Brother make personal models for around $100 (HP P1005 and HL-2040).
Software Recommendations:
- Word Processor and such: Teacher/Student version of Microsoft
Office ($150).
OR) Download OpenOffice from openoffice.org ($0). - Internet Access, Security and such: Software Central has
all the security tools for free.
Other Resources:
- AirBears is the campus wireless network: airbears.berkeley.edu
- Here is a map of the campus highlighting the AirBears locations: http://airbears.berkeley.edu/map/
- Computer Labs for student athletes: Chavez Student Center.
Any questions, contact Richard DeShong.
Where are they now?
