Students Buying a Computer
Purchasing a P.C.
Introduction
If you are thinking about buying a P.C. you are recommended to discuss the type of computer and software used with someone in your department when you arrive at the University.
There are retailers in the town, and in Leicester, Nottingham, and Derby, but without the University's endorsement. You should be able to find them using the Yellow Pages www.yell.com/ucs/HomePageAction.do (list of business phone numbers and addresses).
HallNet
If you are in hall you will be able to use the network, but we only provide full support for Windows XP and Apple Mac OS/X10.4 or higher.
What specification should I look for?
Modem or Ethernet card:
If you are in hall you will be able to use the network, so you need an ethernet card www.lboro.ac.uk/it/hallnet/ethernetcards.html rather than a modem. If you intend to use the P.C. for e-mail or other Internet use off campus (e.g. at home) from a telephone line you will need a modem (56 Kbps minimum). Internal modems, as supplied with most P.C.s are usually run by software. External hardware modems are often faster and more reliable. These are plugged into one of your serial ports. You may choose to use your computer off-campus and instead of a telephone line, use a Cable Modem or an A.D.S.L. modem. You will need advice from your Internet Service Provider. Follow the links for more information on the Hall Network Service, HallNet www.lboro.ac.uk/it/hallnet/, or for Choosing an Internet Service Provider www.lboro.ac.uk/it/off-campus/choose.html (or for Choosing an Internet Service Provider for an Apple Mac www.lboro.ac.uk/it/off-campus/choose-mac.html if applicable).
Warranty and Maintenance
When you buy a P.C. we strongly recommend that you examine the warranty and maintenance obligations. If possible look for two or more years on-site parts and labour maintenance. This should mean that an engineer will call to fix your P.C. within a specified time in the case of problems. 'Return to Base' or 'Delivered' warranty usually means that you have to return your P.C. to the supplier for repair in the case of a fault, and you could be without your computer for a significant time (and this could be at your busiest time of the year).
USB Devices:
Digital cameras and Memory pens / sticks / card readers
If you wish to use a USB device in our computer labs, the device must support the "USB SCSI Mass Storage System". This seems to cover all memory devices except secure devices, and some (but not all) digital cameras. There are so many devices, manufacturers, and models that we cannot keep a list of what works and what doesn't - you must consult your supplier. We cannot allow users of lab computers to install drivers for any additional devices, as this may cause problems.
All P.C. lab computers have USB ports on the front of the computer.
See also Buying Software
www.lboro.ac.uk/it/software/student-index.html