Take Time to Pick a Computer for College

by Darla Dernovsek

Buying the best computer for college rarely translates to buying the most expensive model on the market.

Instead, buying the right computer for college requires taking time to consider what you really need and what you can afford. A surprising array of options is available for making--or even delaying--your college computer purchase.

Take your time

Yet there can be advantages to delaying your purchase until school starts or even longer. If your major changes, for example, your computer requirements could change. Some students prefer to delay a major computer purchase until their second or even third year at college. Some discounts on hardware or software may only be offered to students currently taking classes.

For students with an uncertain major or a tight budget, free access to computers is available on many campuses, although some may be open for limited hours. Computer facilities for student use often are provided in libraries, classroom buildings, and dormitories.

An unscientific sampling of college students who don't own computers showed that none had significant difficulty getting access to computers on campus. Yet those same students agreed having their own computer would be helpful and convenient.

A computer in your dorm room or apartment makes it easier to write papers; conduct research; or just relax by playing a video game, music, or a DVD. The need for a computer often grows as you move beyond your freshman year to become immersed in your major. At that stage, you may need to tackle complex projects that last an entire semester, making the ability to easily retrieve and alter files more important.

Check college requirements

Whenever you decide to make your purchase, start by checking the requirements at your school.

Some colleges make specific recommendations for students, including minimum system capabilities, software and security features. Kansas State University, Kalamazoo (Michigan) College, and Salem College in Winston-Salem, N.C. are among the campuses that offer online advice for student computer purchases.

Requirements can differ based on the students' field of study. A student pursuing a degree in education or communication often can get by with a standard model for writing papers, performing research online, and organizing information. But if that student switches to an engineering major, he or she is likely to need a faster processor, more memory, and other capabilities.

Students also use different software as they move toward graduation. A word-processing program might satisfy your needs as a freshman, but as a senior you may need to present slide shows, edit videos, develop spreadsheets, or perform other advanced functions.

Installing a wireless card can be worthwhile if you own a laptop and want to access the campus wireless network. Be aware, however, that some colleges only allow wireless access to their Web site for security reasons, limiting your wireless options.

Colleges also may require installation of security software before allowing you to hook a computer to their high-speed Internet networks. Some colleges offer this software free.

Finally, many colleges offer low-cost technical support and repair services to students. Always check with your college's information technology (IT) department to see what's available.

Laptop vs. desktop

The biggest decision may be choosing between a laptop and a desktop model. Factors to weigh include how you plan to use the computer and how much you can afford to spend.

A laptop, also known as a notebook, can be carried to class to take notes and travel home with you for weekend or semester breaks. Adding a wireless card is easy, so you may be able to use it from almost anywhere on campus.

A laptop saves space in cramped dorm rooms, but its portability makes it a target for thieves. Explore your coverage for loss, theft, or damage under your parent's property insurance.

It's easy to destroy if you spill a beverage on it or drop it while moving from place to place. It's also more expensive.

Desktops are cheaper, making it easier to get the features you want on a tight budget. A bigger monitor may help compensate for the lack of portability, with flat-panel options minimizing the space required. Apple offers all-in-one designs that save counter space.

Desktops are harder to steal because of their size, and easier to secure in a locked dorm room. They typically cost less both to purchase and to expand or enhance if more memory or additional functions are needed.

Select the right features

Weigh other important elements in your computer decision with this checklist.

Apple vs. PC: The term "PC" typically is used to describe DOS-based computer systems that run most personal computers. Apple has its own system. Some colleges recommend one or the other. Processor: Faster is always better, given students' fondness for demanding games and videos. The minimum recommended is 800 MHz, although some colleges set the standard higher. RAM (random access memory): Some colleges recommend 512 megabytes for all students, and it's the minimum for complex tasks required for engineering or graphic design. Other schools suggest that basic systems can start as low as 128 megabytes. Get as much memory as you can afford. Hard drive: More is better, so look for 80 gigabytes. Monitor: Bigger is usually better, although a big screen can weigh down laptop users. Get at least a 15-inch monitor; 17 inches is preferred. Operating software: Windows XP Professional appears to be the system of choice for PC users, while Macintosh OS X is preferred for Apple users.

Look for options

To get the features you want at a price you can afford, check your college's Web site for programs that offer manufacturer discounts. Colleges also may offer discounts on accessories, software, and even technical support.

At Salem College, for example, the IT staff installs a wireless card free of charge on computers equipped with Windows 2000 or XP operating systems. Students taking a class at any University of Wisconsin campus are eligible for software discounts that cut the 2006 cost of the Microsoft Office XP Professional Edition 2003 from $285 to $81.

It also can be worthwhile to sign up for manufacturers' e-newsletters that let you monitor discounts, rebates, and other offers.

As you search, keep in mind that a college computer should combine functionality with flexibility. If you make the right choices, your computer might just last as long as it takes you to graduate. And if you need to finance the purchase of a computer, your credit union can help.

July 3, 2006