Laptop Purchase Program FAQ

I already own the computer I plan to bring on campus.  Do I have to buy a new one?
As this is only a strongly recommended program, you are not required to buy a recommended machine. However, your machine must match the operating system specifications for service on campus.

What are the Operating System Specifications?
To ensure network security, one of the following operating systems is required.

• Windows XP Professional SP2
• Windows Vista Business
•  Windows Vista Ultimate
•  Windows Vista Enterprise
•  Mac OS 10.4.11 or higher

Why should I buy a laptop through the Laptop Purchase Program and not directly from one of the vendors?
Gettysburg College has negotiated package deals with Dell, Hewlett Packard and Lenovo for what we feel is the best price for the quality of the hardware. 

Are there open computer labs and printers on campus if I choose not to bring anything?
Yes. There are six open PC labs running Windows XP Professional SP2.  In addition, several academic departments provide "private" labs for their majors to use.  In all, there are more than 100 lab machines; most of which can be used 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.  Open labs offer laser printing as well as the option for students to print to these printers from their rooms.

What if I am a Mac, Linux, or UNIX user; do I still get support?
IT does not support student owned machines running Linux, UNIX or Unix-like operating systems. Macintosh users will be supported on a case by case basis.

What happens if my laptop needs service?
Information Technology (IT) supports the total campus community. The Infrastructure and Computing group is the first point of contact for IT services and support for students, faculty, administrators and support staff. The main IT Helpdesk is located on the second floor of the Plank Building. G-Tech (the Gettysburg Student Technology Center)  is located in West Building, Room 101 and is available to assist students on campus.  If your laptop does have a problem, call G-Tech and we will determine if it is hardware or software.  If it is hardware, you will call the manufacturer of your laptop and with your four year, on-site warranty the machine should be fixed the next business day. If it is software, we'll help you  back up your data and restore the machine to factory defaults and you will have it in a day or so.

What kind of warranty will my computer have?
All manufacturers provide four years, on-site hardware warranties plus four years all hazard insurance.    Please see the manufacturer website for important warranty details, as some limitations may apply.  Theft of the machine may be covered under your family's home owner's policy.

Should I bring a printer?
We recommend that you bring a printer. You may find it practical and efficient to have your own printer, especially during peak periods of lab use for midterms and finals.  Remember that laser printing is available from your room to a computer lab seven days a week, virtually 24 hours a day.

**Personal wireless printers -- wireless printing can only be accessed in dorm rooms using bluetooth technology. 

Can I bring more than one computer?
The Technology Fee charged by the College supports only one computer and network connection per student, and the supported computer must be of appropriate specification. Multiple computers represent additional load on both the network and support staff and are not appropriate.

What kind of computer training and other support is available for new students?
Training and general help are abundant for students from the day they arrive on campus and throughout the academic year. The Instructional Technology and Training  (ITT) group conducts training on all supported applications and ensures that documentation is available. ITT staff trainers and students provide hands-on lab classes, video lessons, tutorials, and one-on-one and small group training sessions. ITT Student Liaisons are available on the ground floor of Musselman Library to help students use supported software. 

G-Tech (located in West Building, Room 101) helps students get started using the network on the computers in their rooms. During Orientation Days and throughout the semester, student troubleshooters and student trainers are available by phone. A phone call to G-Tech (extension 6935) puts students in touch with student troubleshooters.

Can I use a modem on my PC? 
Gettysburg College does not support computer connections to the network via modem. Your machine must be equipped with a network card.

Does Information Technology hire student workers?
Indeed we do. We are looking for motivated, creative, reliable and energetic students to work for us. The jobs we offer range from computer lab assistant to trainer, troubleshooter, network assistant, telecommunications assistant and web programmer. We promise training, a hands-on, resume-worthy opportunity, steady employment, and a comfortable, if slightly crazed, working environment.  Just contact the IT Helpdesk for an application as soon as you get here.

Can I run a web server?
The College provides space for non-commercial personal web pages on the network. You may not run server software on computers connected to the College's network. The installation of web servers, ftp servers, remote access servers and similar programs on personal machines is prohibited. Obtain a copy of the Network Use Policy and read it carefully.  Check with IT in advance of installing any network software on your computer if you have any questions.

What kind of computer support can I expect if I live off campus?
IT concentrates its computer support and services on the computers of students who live on campus. Our technicians will not visit off-campus residences; however, students living off campus can bring their PC to the Gettysburg Student Technology Center located in West Building for support.