Apple - University of South Florida



Computer Recommendations*

For the next two years your computer will be your best friend whether you like it or not, so choosing the right one for your studies is important. Our class has put together a list of some recommended and some not so recommended computers.

*Please note the following document consists of RECOMMENDATIONS and opinions from the Class of 2009 and does not reflect the views of the administration.

All of the requirements your computer will need to meet are listed on the HSC IS website

. Please take a minute to look over these requirements, but you do not have to purchase a Dell, that is just the recommended package. You should have a laptop, although a couple people in our class got by with a desktop at home and, although not very convenient for the amount you will use them, there are free computers to use in the HSC library as well as our tiny computer lab. Please keep in mind that a lot of people chose to carry their computer to and from school everyday so choose something that you feel comfortable taking around.

WHAT ARE LAPTOPS USED FOR EXACTLY?

The majority of laptop use in the first year is for taking class notes, making student presentations, email, and surfing the internet when class gets a bit dull. The specifics you pick for your computer will determine the price. If you are choosing a PC you have the option of purchasing a conventional laptop or a Tablet PC.

Conventional Laptop:

The best advice would be to get a reliable conventional laptop that is LIGHTWEIGHT!!! A good conventional laptop can be had for about $1000-1500. The recommended Dell seems to be a good option but it’s a bit more expensive.

Tablet PC:

A tablet is a computer that uses a special pen that allows the user to write directly on a variety of Microsoft applications (Word, PowerPoint, Excel). Most of the newer tablets look like normal laptops yet when you flip the screen down they turn into digital notebooks. This means that when a professor presents a slide you can digitally write anywhere on it (i.e. make hand written notes, draw/label diagrams). Tablets are probably the best way to go since virtually every lecture is presented on a Powerpoint that the professor scribbles on with his/her own digital pen. Furthermore, buying a tablet negates the need for a color laserjet to print out slides. Tablets are a bit more expensive than conventional PCs and Macs, these days they run about $1400-2000. But remember to take into account the fact that you won’t need to buy a color printer to print out slides, so the price might be worth it (you’ll still need some type of black and white printer for other things). If you want more info on laptops, take a look at descriptions and reviews at .

MAC or PC?

Mac vs. PC – There are a few people in our class with Macs while the remaining 95% went with PCs. Both Macs and PCs are able to do all the things needed for class, although it has been noted that Macs cannot view online lectures @ speeds faster than 1x (believe me, you want this). This may be different in future releases of Windows Media Player for Mac. Also, the newer Macs are able to run Windows, allowing you to avoid Mac related problems.

Mac’s cannot officially be setup for the wireless network access by HSC/IS yet they seem to get access without having to do anything, that’s a plus. All PC’s, on the other hand, must be configured by HSC/IS in order to check HSC email on campus and have access to the wireless network.

In my opinion, unless you’re a die-hard Mac fan or already own one, get a PC.

WIRELESS ISSUES:

Many people had issues with their computers after HSC installed the programs for the network (the program they use for wireless verification is downright annoying). Unfortunately, this is the only way by which you’ll be able to check HSC e-mail with your laptop on campus so most people lived with it. A small amount of people didn’t care about checking email while in class so they just brought a short ethernet cable to class, in this case HSC doesn’t need to do anything to your computer. Each seat in your classroom will have an ethernet jack (which is much faster than the wireless) and a power plug; you will still be able to access the internet and blackboard.

COLOR LASER PRINTER:

This was the first year where it was ‘required’ to have a color laser printer, which costs around $400-600. After speaking to administration as to the root of this recommendation, we were told that students were to “create their own disadvantage” if they did not have a color laser printer accessible to them and this new requirement was established to allow the students to print out colored slides from Powerpoint Presentations.

After having our class fill out a questionnaire about their printers it seems as though many people bought the recommended HP printer only to be disappointed by its massive size and expensive ink. A large chunk of our class found that it was best to simply buy paper and print black and white slides in the computer lab (five computers, three laserjets, open 24 hrs). This is definitely the cheapest way to go since all you have to pay for is paper. However, some say that color is very helpful for things like histology and anatomy presentations (this is where tablets show an advantage).

The HSC library has a computer lab with traditional printers as well as a color printer. There is a cost of $0.10 a page for black and white and $0.20 (or $0.25…) a page for color copies. So, if something comes along that absolutely needs to be printed, or needed to be printed in color, you have these resources available to you. There is also a Kinko’s located on Fowler Ave., very close to school.

It’s important to note that not everyone in our class prints out slides. Some people simply type in the “notes” section of the Powerpoint slides during lecture, some print out the slides and write all over them, some take notes on legal pads, and some write all over their slides on their tablet computers; it all depends on how you study. Regardless, you will need a printer for the other random thing’s you’ll be printing out (articles, tables, etc.) and in that case I recommend a cheap black and white laser printer ($100 or less, check out the Samsungs). Also know that if you will be printing out slides, whether at home or campus, buy a lot of paper. Six to seven hours of lecture per day will use up quite a few reams.

SOFTWARE:

USF has a computer store with reduced prices for software so don’t go out and spend hundreds of dollars elsewhere.

Microsoft Student Select Office 2003 Professional $67.15

Microsoft Student Select Windows XP Professional Upgrade $74.10

Microsoft Student Select Office 2004 Mac Standard $63.25

Also, don’t forget to make sure you are getting the student price for your new computer. Most companies offer a discount for students.

All of this information can be found here:

You will need your USF Net ID (what you use to login to Blackboard) and password to have access to this service.

STUDENT REVIEWS

Students this year were asked whether they recommended their computers or not. Hopefully this will give you some good raw info on where to put your money. These critiques do no represent the entire class, just those who responded to the questionnaire.

Conventional Computers:

DELL Latitude 610 (Recommended by HSC)

1. Definitely.  Great package.  Perfect computer.

2. Yes because I haven’t had any problems with it.

3. Yes, because it was the recommended model by the school.  If it crashes or breaks for any reason, they will transfer your hard drive into one of the loaners, and it’s like it never happened until it gets fixed.

4. Yes

5. Yes

6. Yes, I haven’t had any problems.

7. Yes, it has yet to crash, knock on wood.

8. No. I bought the package recommended by the school (computer + printer) and wish I had invested in a tablet PC instead. My computer works fine but is not optimal.

9. I really like it- the screen is good and it’s easy to carry around.

10. Buy whatever the heck you want, just make sure it can fly with their requirements.

11. I like my computer, but I think I could have gotten a similar one (different brand) for less money.

12. Yes, my computer is great.

13. I was under the impression that I had to have a dell…..any computer will be ok as long as it meets the requirements.

14. It’s fine, but if you are going to take the laptop to school daily and not print notes, I would get a tablet PC.

15. Yes, it’s a good laptop and comes with a good warranty, though my CD drive has already broken once (but was covered under warranty).

16. Yes, it has been a great computer thus far and the computing center at USF gives it to you along with all the software that you need for a great price that you can’t beat anywhere else.

17. Sure. It’s nothing fancy. I don’t worry really about it getting stolen. It’s sturdy and I don’t worry about it breaking really even though I throw it around.

18. Yes, only b/c problems are handled in a more timely manner b/c the school has a contract with them.

19. Yes, only because it hasn’t given me any problems yet.

20. I did the school package because I didn’t already have a laptop and it was the easiest option.  It’s worked great and I’d definitely recommend it if you don’t already have one.

21. Yes, if you have no money like me.  If you have the means, get a tablet.

22. Yes, it is reliable and durable.  Haven’t had any problems yet.

23. Yes, but I would highly recommend a tablet if you can get one. I have been jealous of my friends many times because of those nifty inventions.

24. Yes because of the tech support with Dell.

25. It’s OK…not the best.

26. Sure.  I’m not a fan of Dell but the fact that it can be repaired on campus a lot easier then other models is worth it to me.

27. Couldn't be happier with it yes, it's lightweight and works great, and I can use my dell warranty here on campus to get it fixed.

Dell Inspiron 700m

1. Small, compact, easy to tote around, BUT you will spend the next year looking at power points so a larger monitor would strain your eyes less.

2. 700m + external monitor and keyboard/mouse at home. Yes. Light and small, but screen is still okay size to read.

3. Nope. I have had TONS of problems with my computer AND to get it fixed I have to send it back to Dell, which means I wouldn’t have a computer for awhile. 

4. Yea I like the laptop.

5. You can by any computer but this one is great. It is small and there is also a larger one.  I would not buy the recommended.

Dell Inspiron 600m

1. No.  Get a tablet computer for sure.

2. Sure.

3. Yes, it’s lightweight and I haven’t had any problems. A Tablet PC might have been useful though.

Dell Inspiron 8500

1. The computer is good although a little heavy to bring to class.

Dell Inspiron 8600

1. Yes but you can buy something more basic and be fine.

Dell, Inspiron 9100

1. No, it is huge, heavy, and noisy.

Dell Inspiron 9300

1. Depends on your needs; it’s a widescreen so it’s great for viewing 2 windows side-by-side, but tends to be a little heavy when hauling it around campus.

Dell Latitude D810

1. I would recommend getting a Dell because they are great machines, and we have a Dell service center right on campus, which is much more convenient than having to take your computer to Best Buy if you had problems with it.  Rather than doing that, you just took your computer to the IT department on the way to your car.

Dell Inspiron 6000

1. Yes.  Large screen (personal preference) and has not given me a problem.

2. Sure, if you’re not planning on bringing it to class….pretty large and heavy….I liked it since mine just stays a home.

Dell Latitude D505

1. Yes, just what I needed for everything. I prefer to hand-write my notes, but if I chose to use a computer, I would get at tablet PC.

Gateway

1. I used a Gateway Laptop, not sure what the model was but it was the advertised as the “thinnest” in the series.  The screen wasn’t too small and its width when closed is pretty slim compared to others.  When looking ask for the battery life and the weight of the computer, because you will carry it around often.  Many times I wish I would have spent the extra bucks and have gotten the Tablet style notebooks.  I think if you can afford it, it’s worth it in the end.

Toshiba Satellite M55-S325

1. Yes.  It’s lightweight and fast.  I’m very impatient with slow computers.

2. If I had it to do over, I would get a tablet.  Also the more memory the better.

3. I love my computer- I purchased it at Circuit City and  got a better deal than the Dell offered by the school.  A tablet would have been ideal though- I would recommend that the class of 2010 look around and consider getting a tablet.

4. It's nice but I don't use it much. Too distracting.

Toshiba Satellite M45

1. Yeah I hate Dell's and don't get your computer configured you really don't need to and it slows it down and even can make it crash at which point IT will not be very helpful.

Sony Vaio

1. Yes, I love it.  It is light, which is a plus because I carry it everywhere.  It was compatible for everything I have needed it for so far.

2. Yes, it is highly reliable and it looks nice.

3. FS640. Yes – light weight, great screen, battery life is only 2.5h.

4. I loved my computer.  I haven’t really had any major problems with it so far.  I have had it for about a year and a half.  The thing nice about getting a dell is the IT support is very helpful if you do have computer problems.

HP

1. Pavilion ZE2000. Yes, it is a very reliable computer, I have had no IT problems with it this year.

2. Its ok…a bit heavy, but large screen is good.

3. DV1000. Yes has everything you need. Im not a big fan of Dell.

4. Yes, it reliable for the most part.

Compaq

1. Presario. It's a good computer, but I would recommend a tablet PC so you can take notes on the powerpoint slides.

2. Presario V2000. Highly recommend.  As much as they push Dell I wouldn’t recommend it.  Most people who have had computer problems have Dells.  My roommate had replaced her motherboard 3 times in the last year.

3. Presario V2312US. Of course.  It is a small lightweight, cheap computer and the widescreen zoom brightness is amazing. 

Averatec

1. It's sort of an off-brand, but it received PC Magazine's editor's choice, and it was a great price.  It's only problem is that it has been overheating lately, and i thin kI have to spend about $20 on a cooling dock for it. If money is an issue, then yes, if not, then no.  I would recommend a tablet PC or a USB attachable tablet.

MAC: Powerbook G4

1. Macs rock.  Tablets may be helpful though.  You will realistically use  10 – 15 GB over the first year if you download all the files. Macs are great.  This is my first one, & I will not be going back.  That said, I have my clunky windows laptop to watch videos faster than 1x.

MAC: Powermac G4 (older model)

1. Macintosh PowerMac G4 - Yes, much better than a Windows based machine, and the new ones can run Windows with the use of the Intel chips and Boot Camp.  There is nothing you can’t do with the Mac on and off campus.  The only challenge is that Windows Media Player for Mac doesn’t play videos faster than 1X speed.  However, this won’t be an issue if you get the new Intel based Macs and run Boot Camp.

Tablet Computers:

Toshiba

1. R15-S822. I would recommend an upgraded version of the same PC.

2. Tecra M4 Tablet PC. MOST DEFINITELY!!! Get a tablet PC. It’s not much more expensive than your normal laptop but provide so much more features in terms of taking notes directly to your lectures. You can write freehandedly and it eliminates you from having to printout everything. It saves you a lot of money in the long run.

3. Portege M200. Yes; it has been really nice to be able to take notes on my computer in terms of labeling a slide, drawing a pathway, etc.  I don’t think it is absolutely a necessity to have, but it definitely makes it easier at times. 

4. Portege M200. Get any tablet.  You can take notes right on the screen and don’t have to keep up with all of those sheets of paper.

HP

1. I highly recommend it.

Lenovo X41 Tablet

1. Heck yes.  I don’t see why the school doesn’t recommend a tablet for everyone.  You have a huge advantage with this in that you can write all over the diagrams on the Powerpoints. Plus, you don’t have to print out the slides when you go to lecture. The 12 inch screen is a perfect size. Comes with a 3 yr warranty.

SUMMARY:

Dell

Obviously, a larger portion of our class has Dell computers. In my opinion, the quality of Dell computers is average at best. The only reason why you might consider buying one is the support you get on campus and their decent prices.

Toshiba

Probably the second most popular computer in our class. These computers seem more reliable and many times you can find them at places like Best Buy and Circuit City for bargain prices (Check the Sunday ads in the paper or hit up their websites). You’ll have a warranty with these computers yet it may take longer to get repaired since there’s no on-campus repair site. Toshiba is also the most popular manufacturer of tablets.

HP and Compaq

Just as reliable as Toshiba in my opinion. Same support situation and you can also find good deals at BestBuy and Circuit City.

Lenovo (Previously IBM)

Thinkpad’s are known for their durability. Originally built for business and travel, these computers can take a beating. They also have data protection built-in so that the hard drive protects itself when it is shaken or if it falls. Comes with a 3 year warranty; your computer will be fixed and back to you in 3-5 days. They may be a bit pricier but definitely worth it; especially the tablet (base model: $1,799, which includes the 3yr warranty).

MAC

Like I said, get a PC if you’ve never used a Mac before.

All in all, just make sure to get something up to date; anything 3 years or older may not make it through the first year. Also, find a computer that you’ll find comfortable taking to class; a 7-8 lb. computer is no fun carrying to and from your car everyday.

If you have any other questions concerning computers or printers don’t hesitate to contact any of the 12PAC members or me personally @ d.thometz@.

Enjoy your summer!

12PAC

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