<p>I have several questions regarding computers at Wes.
-For an econ major, is a Mac or PC better?
-In general, is wesleyan compatible with both Mac and PC?
-Does the IT store/department help people with computers which weren’t purchased from the Wes computer store?
Any other comments or advice for choosing a computer for college would be appreciated.</p>
<p>I have no idea about econ specifically, but Wes is both Mac and PC compatable, and ITS will help anyone. One thing to keep in mind is that the protective agent you have to log into to get to the internet (that like, stops viruses from one person’s computer spreading to others over the network, or something) aparently takes an annoyingly long time to load every time you turn on a PC. Macs do not hae this issue.</p>
<p>I don’t think PC or Mac is better with regards to econ specifically. I know a few majors in the department, and both are common. as weskid said, both are compatible at wes, with the cisco clean access agent slower on PCs (checking for viruses, etc.). ITS will help you out regardless of where you got your computer, so no worries there.</p>
<p>I would recommend a laptop, just because you can go anywhere with it… and as far as PC vs. Mac, go with whatever you’re comfortable with. the pc/mac ratio at wes is about 50/50, maybe slightly more macs I think…</p>
<p>Does anyone have opinions or experiences with specific computers?
I’m considering Apple Macbook, HP Pavillion, and Dell Inspiration.</p>
<p>Just get an Apple.</p>
<p>I’ve heard the Lenovo Thinkpad is good; is this true?</p>
<p>lenovo puts an emphasis on practicality and security so its ideal for business ppl not necessarily students.</p>
<p>“What can be said about the ThinkPad? It’s perhaps the most enduring brand name in laptop computing. These sturdy notebooks have been serving students and businesspeople well for years, and under Lenovo, they have continued to be a strong contender for consumers who need a little extra security when it comes to their precious data. The ThinkPad has an optional magnesium-alloy roll cage and shock-mounted hard drive, making it practically impervious to blunt force damage or falls. A built in biometric scanner replaces text passwords with a swipe of your finger, providing an extra layer of personal protection. On top of all that, underneath the hood, there is a powerful, high-performance notebook capable of fulfilling all your computing needs.”</p>
<p>What size and weight range is ideal for college students?
Is 12’’ too small? Is 15’’ too big/heavy?</p>
<p>You’re overthinking this. There is no “ideal” computer, just one that suits your preferences. Some people want huge screens to be able to watch DVDs in their room. Some people want a really small computer that won’t weigh down their hip messenger bag. It’s all up to what YOU want.</p>
<p>thanks, i am going to get either a macbook pro or a Dell XPS M1530.
one last questions: what other accesories will i need for my computer in college? lock? printer? USB memory? surge protectore?</p>
<p>A lock isn’t necessary unless you’re paranoid about your computer getting stolen. Printer is helpful, but definitely not necessary because you can just print in the labs on campus or use someone else’s printer. USB memory stick is really convenient. Surge protector is good, especially because it turns one outlet into six plugs for your computer, speakers, lamp, phone charger, whatever else and makes it easy to save energy by turning everything off at once when you leave your room.</p>
<p>And get the Macbook Pro. Seriously.</p>
<p>seconded for the macbook pro. love mine.</p>
<p>I love my Macbook Pro, but I would recommend you get a hardcover for it. The metal is kind of soft and depending on how often you carry your computer, it can get a little beat up.</p>
<p>are dorms wireless?</p>
<p>The whole campus is wireless.</p>
<p>not only are dorms wireless, but the whole campus is wireless… the libraries, the academic buildings, outdoors… it’s great</p>
<p>Any opinions of the HP dv6000 series- including the 6700 and the 6500? What is the meaning of the last letter in the product: t, z, us, e?</p>
<p>Seriously, google this stuff rather than asking random people on a college discussion board. Whatever computer you get will be fine. </p>
<p>Like I said, I personally think Apples are better computers, and they are easier to use at Wesleyan (no need for special virus software, no problems with Vista compatibility).</p>