ASU 1:1 Computing: FAQs

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have a laptop to attend Arizona State University?

No. However, having a laptop will enhance your educational experience and give you more freedom and flexibility.

What does Arizona State University receive from this program with Apple and Dell?

ASU developed this program to encourage student participation in a curriculum that promotes technology across all campuses. ASU 1:1 Computing provides students with a laptop and integrated service at the best possible price. In addition, Apple and Dell contribute a percentage of their revenue toward an ASU scholarship fund.

There are less expensive computers on the market than the ones in these bundles. Why should I buy one of these laptops?

The specified configurations are affordably priced well below comparable units from Apple or Dell and include a comprehensive 3 year warranty. Although less expensive models can be purchased, the laptop bundles provide added value in the form of readily available on-campus repair services and specialized support.

Can faculty and staff purchase a laptop from the recommended bundles?

Yes. Faculty and staff can take advantage of this program using their ASU affiliate ID to purchase a laptop.

Why do I have to authenticate to view the laptop bundles?

ASU 1:1 Computing is an exclusive program for ASU students, faculty, and staff that is not available to the general public. Authentication guarantees your affiliation with the university.

Do I have to order my 1:1 laptop online?

No. Although it is recommended that you purchase your new laptop through this website to guarantee the best possible pricing, you may also visit the Computer Store located in the Computing Commons at the Tempe campus to research and buy the available laptop bundles, as well as additional software and accessories.

Can I purchase a 1:1 laptop from the Computer Store?

Yes. The Computer Store located in the Computing Commons at the Tempe campus carries a selection of laptop bundles found on this website. (Please note that a convenience fee may be applied to the special 1:1 pricing).

Will I be able to upgrade any of the recommended laptop bundles?

Yes. You may, for example, add additional memory, a larger hard drive, or select pre-installed software. (Please note that upgrading any of the MacBook or MacBook Pro bundles with options beyond what is available on this website will prevent you from receiving the special 1:1 pricing as well as disqualify you for the John Babb Scholarship.)

Once I have ordered a 1:1 laptop online, what are my shipment options?

If you have purchased an Apple laptop, you may elect to pick it up from the Computer Store located in the Computing Commons at the Tempe campus; you may have it shipped to the Bookstore on any of ASU's four campuses; or you may have it shipped directly to any US address. If you have purchased a Dell laptop, you may have it shipped to any address in the US.

How long will it take before I receive my new laptop?

Apple and Dell understand the importance of providing technology tools as quickly as possible. As a result, 1:1 laptops should arrive, on average, within 5 to 7 business days from the time they are built and shipped. If you decide to upgrade the recommended configurations, please allow additional time for processing.

What is Energy Star Enabled?

Energy Star Enabled is an option on Dell laptop bundles that helps to drastically reduce energy consumption through power management features. As ASU continues to promote a greener and more ecologically sound campus, it is highly recommended that this option be selected during the initial configuration of any system prior to purchasing.

I'm interested in upgrading to 4 GB of RAM on my Dell Latitude laptop. Are there any drawbacks to this option?

Yes. In 32-bit versions of Windows XP and Windows Vista, the operating system is only able to recognize up to 3 GB of system memory. It is recommended that you select no more than 2 GB of memory at the time of purchase.

Do I have to purchase the CompleteCare(TM) Accidental Damage Service?

No. Although CompleteCare(TM) provides repair or replacement services for system damages due to spills, drops, surges and other accidental damage not covered under your Limited Warranty, it is a recommended option, but not required.

After I purchase a laptop, what type of support is available?

You can receive support on the use of your laptop, making the most of myASU, and virus protection software, for example, by contacting the ASU Help Desk, (480) 965-6500 or at:

Downtown Phoenix campus: The IT Help Desk located on the lower level of University Center, (602) 496-6500
Polytechnic campus: The IT Help Desk located in the Computing Commons of the Academic Center Building, (480) 727-1118
Tempe campus: The ASU 1:1 Technology Studio located in Computing Commons 105, (480) 965-2843
West campus: Technopolis located on the lower level of Fletcher Library, (602) 543-8278

Where can I go to repair my laptop?

Apple

Apple repair services are available through the ASU Bookstores on the Tempe campus with drop-off and courier service locations at the Downtown Phoenix, Polytechnic, and West campuses:

Downtown Phoenix campus: Bookstore located on the 1st floor of University Center, (602) 496-0347
Polytechnic campus: Bookstore located in the Student Union, (480) 727-1168
Tempe campus: Computer Store located in Computing Commons 103, (480) 965-4488
West campus: Bookstore located in University Center Building 140, (602) 543-6800

Laptops purchased through ASU 1:1 Computing have a 3 year warranty from the date of purchase. You can also call Apple at 1-800-800-2775 for phone support 7 days a week.

Dell

Dell's on-campus repair services are available through the ASU Bookstores on the Tempe campus with drop-off and courier service locations at the Downtown Phoenix, Polytechnic, and West campuses:

Downtown Phoenix campus: Bookstore located on the 1st floor of University Center, (602) 496-0347
Polytechnic campus: Bookstore located in the Student Union, (480) 727-1168
Tempe campus: Computer Store located in Computing Commons 103, (480) 965-4488
West campus: Bookstore located in University Center Building 140, (602) 543-6800

Laptops purchased through ASU 1:1 Computing have a 3 year warranty from the date of purchase. You can also call Dell at 1-800-274-7799 for 24/7 phone support.

Additionally, Dell offers on-site repair services if the hardware on your 1:1 laptop needs to be replaced under warranty. Please call 1-800-274-7799 and a Technical Support Representative will troubleshoot your system over the phone and dispatch a technician to your location if necessary.

If I graduate before the 3 year on-campus service agreement expires on my laptop, can I still bring the unit to ASU for repair?

Yes. You may bring your 1:1 laptop to the campus nearest you.

What happens if I move before the 3 year warranty ends and I need service on my laptop?

If you have purchased an Apple MacBook or MacBook Pro, you may call 1-800-800-2775 or if you have purchased a Dell Latitude, you may call 1-800-274-7799 for service and support options from your current location.

I want to install an application on my laptop. Is there someone who can help me?

For application support, you can contact the ASU Help Desk, (480) 965-6500 or:

Downtown Phoenix campus: The IT Help Desk located on the lower level of University Center, (602) 496-6500
Polytechnic campus: The IT Help Desk located in the Computing Commons of the Academic Center Building, (480) 727-1118
Tempe campus: The ASU 1:1 Technology Studio located in Computing Commons 105, (480) 965-2843
West campus: Technopolis located on the lower level of Fletcher Library, (602) 543-8278

How can I print using my laptop?

Access to printers is offered on each campus. If you would like to configure printing services on your laptop, assistance is available at the ASU Help Desk, (480) 965-6500 or:

Downtown Phoenix campus: The IT Help Desk located on the lower level of University Center, (602) 496-6500
Polytechnic campus: The IT Help Desk located in the Computing Commons of the Academic Center Building, (480) 727-1118
Tempe campus: The ASU 1:1 Technology Studio located in Computing Commons 105, (480) 965-2843; or visit Laptop Printing on the Tempe campus to download online help sheets that will guide you through the setup process
West campus: Technopolis located on the lower level of Fletcher Library, (602) 543-8278 or visit Laptop Printing on the West campus to view online instructions that will guide you through the setup process

Is there wireless connectivity on each campus or will I have to plug into an Ethernet jack?

Most buildings and several outdoor areas at each campus have wireless capability, with complete coverage planned for the future. For coverage details, visit Maps. There also are Ethernet jacks at various locations for your use.

Will there be adequate power available in all the buildings and classrooms to supplement my laptop battery?

All campuses are creating learning spaces with 1:1 in mind. There are power outlets on tables in many classrooms and throughout the common computing areas. Power is also available at various locations on the walls in all parts of the buildings on every campus.

I purchased a Dell Latitude D830 with a 256 MB graphics card. In the system settings, it only shows 128 MB of dedicated video memory. Does my laptop need to be repaired?

No. Your graphics card is built with 128 MB of dedicated memory integrated onto the board and is also designed to share 128 MB of your system's main memory to generate a total of 256 MB.

Is financial aid available to pay for a laptop?

Yes. ASU has a program to help you. Visit Scholarship Info for detailed information and instructions.

How long is the scholarship going to be available? When is the deadline?

Currently, there is no end date or deadline for the scholarship. However, you are highly encouraged to apply as soon as you meet the eligibility criteria.

Do I have to purchase one of the recommended bundles in order to get the scholarship?

Yes. The scholarship was created to help qualifying students purchase one of the specially configured laptops from ASU 1:1 Computing.

Do I have to be a full-time student in order to qualify for the scholarship?

No. However, holding full-time status will increase your demonstrated financial need as opposed to being classified as a part-time student.

How do I know if I qualify for the scholarship before I buy a laptop?

In order to qualify for the scholarship, you must follow the scholarship criteria described at Scholarship Info. However, not all applicants who meet the eligibility criteria will receive a scholarship.

How long does it take to find out if I have been approved for the scholarship?

Generally, it takes approximately three weeks after all of the application materials have been correctly submitted for processing to select recipients and distribute awards.

Where do I go to get information about additional software packages?

You can go to ASU Software Downloads to access free utilities, application titles, and required university software. A link to e-academy is also provided to purchase specialized software packages at a substantially reduced cost. In addition, you may visit the Computer Store located in the Computing Commons at the Tempe campus to buy academically priced software.

Does the Computer Store provide software installation services?

Yes. If you have purchased software from the Computer Store, the Computer Store can also install those programs on your 1:1 laptop. (Please note that there is a $25 installation fee per application title.)

Is it really possible to run Windows on my MacBook or MacBook Pro?

Yes. With Apple's transition to Intel processors, you may now use Mac OS X in conjunction with Windows XP on Mac laptops (purchase of Windows and Parallels software required).

Frequently Asked Questions

Why 1:1?

Select Your System

Service and Support

Scholarship

Software

Apple

Dell