4U

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Who do I contact for more information?

Contact individual manufacturers about specific computer systems. For general information about the 4U program or UW-W recommendations, please contact the Campus Computing Helpdesk at (262) 472-4357.

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What is the difference between Dell Dimension/Inspiron and Optiplex/Latitude and why do you recommend the Dell Optiplex and Latitude lines?

Dimension desktops and Inspiron laptops are Dell's "home use" systems, built to focus on price over dependability. They use the least expensive parts available during production and are not designed for high-speed networks. The Optiplex desktop and Latitude laptop are Dell's Educational and Professional level systems designed for performance, consistency, and ease of service. The same parts tested in the development of the systems are the same parts used throughout the life of the model. The systems are designed for high-speed networks like our campus network and use consistent parts throughout, making them simple to service. These are the reasons we recommend Optiplex and Latitude systems to the UW-W community.

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Can I get discounted software through the 4U program?

Select software is available for students and faculty/staff at discounted prices from Wisconsin Integrated Software Catalog (student store | faculty/staff store).

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I'm an incoming student - when should I buy a computer?

First, welcome to UW-Whitewater! Once you have enrolled at UW-W, you are eligible for the discounted prices we have available. It is strongly recommended to meet with your advisor and others within your chosen major who will have additional recommendations. Dell and Apple representatives will be available at Plan-It Purple, so you will also have the opportunity to see the latest Dell and Apple systems available and be able to ask additional questions. You will still have time to place your order and receive your computer in time for the start of school. Follow this link to view system recommendations.

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What kind of computer do I need at UW-W?

UW-W strongly recommends purchasing a laptop computer in order to make the best use of our campus technology. Please refer to our system recommendations page to learn more specific information about what kind of computer you will need at UW-W.

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How do I order a new computer through the 4U program?

Go to the SHOP NOW! page and then choose one of the manufacturers listed there. Click on the link to go to the manufacturer website. You can browse their latest offerings and pricing, and place your order through them. You need to use these special links to receive discounted pricing from Dell and Apple.

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How much can I save by using the 4U program?

Our special higher education pricing is discounted up to 20% for hardware and up to 75% for software compared to retail prices for the identical product. The actual savings varies depending on the manufacturer, configuration, and support options. UW-W recommended computers offer the greatest value and are specially configured for our campus network.

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What software should I get with my computer?

You will want to protect your computer with Antivirus software. McAfee 8 is the current PC antivirus solution on campus. Also, for office suites we recommend Microsoft Office Professional (PC) and Office V.X (Mac).

Students: McAfee is available from ResNet for students living in the Residence halls. Please visit the ResNet website for more information. Microsoft Office is available at discounted prices from Wisconsin Integrated Software Catalog for students.

 

Faculty & Staff: UW-W faculty and staff may obtain certain software media for installation on personally-owned (home) computers under the campus site license agreement. These special media, identified as Work At Home (WAH) media, are being distributed upon request at the Campus Helpdesk.  Please visit the Work at Home Media page on the Helpdesk website for more information.

Additional software is also available from Wisconsin Integrated Software Catalog for faculty and staff.

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Does my program or major have any special computer recommendations?

Please refer to our system recommendations page to learn more about any special computer recommendations your program or major may have.

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What are the terms and conditions of the 4U Program?

Purchase of merchandise at higher education prices requires a valid UW-W ID and is for students, faculty, and staff only. Individual limits apply. Refer to manufacturer for details (Dell, Apple).

UW-W does not warrant any product purchased through the 4U program.

UW-W is not affiliated with any computer manufacturer.

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Do I need a wireless enabled computer?

Many UW-W students and faculty use portable computers.  If you want to be one of them, then the campus wireless network will help you stay connected.  Between classes, students can check their email, review study materials posted on class websites, and prepare assignments.  A wireless connection provides web-based access to many of the electronic resources at UW-W including, email, D2L, WINS and the Internet. For more information about the wireless network at UW-W, please visit the UW-W Wireless Information Page.

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