Specifications/Discounts for Student Computer Purchases
If you are a seeking to purchase a desktop or laptop computer for your studies at OSU, bear in mind that the type of computer you get will largely depend on what kinds of programs you are going to want to run. If you are going to be majoring in a department with computer-intensive coursework, you should contact your department to see what they recommend.
For more general guidelines, see our Minimum and Recommended Computer Configurations article.
Some departments have posted specific computer requirements or guidelines:
- Department of Design: http://design.osu.edu/res_computer_req.html
- Distance Education: http://knowlton.osu.edu/ped/technical.htm
- College of Engineering: http://engineering.osu.edu/currentstudents/computerspecs.php
Some computers offer dual- or multi-core processors. The advantage of a dual-core processor is that it can process data more quickly and uses less electricity than other types of processors. However, since individual programs have to be written specifically to take advantage of the dual core capabilities, you likely won't see a significant performance advantage over other processors if you're not using high-end graphics or video programs or processor-intensive games.
If you wish to purchase a computer with a wirelss card (or intend to purchase a card separately), please review the list of tested and recommended hardware on OIT's wireless site:
http://8help.osu.edu/2714.html
There are several discount programs available to students who are buying computers. For information about discounts you can use your OSU internet Username and Password to access Dell, Hewlett Packard and Lenovo through OSU's Prime Supplier Agreement, visit:
In the Contract Book box, under "Search by Product Or Service", select Computer Hardware and Peripherals from the pull-down menu. Alternately, click on the "Contract Book" tab, then you can see the list of vendors that offer discounts in the Computer Hardware and Peripherals section. (ex. Apple, Lenovo, HP, and Dell). For either section, once leaving the main page you will be prompted to enter your OSU Internet username and password before you will be able to see the list of vendors.You can also go directly to the vendor's websites (ex. Apple, Dell, Hewlett Packard and Lenovo and look for educational discount sections on their on-line stores.
For information on purchasing Apple computers via their educational discount, visit:
http://store.apple.com/Catalog/US/Images/routingpage.html
Current Record: 3146
Create Date: 08-09-2006
Last Reviewed: 10-15-2009
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