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Computer Purchases FAQ's

• Is there a discount on computers and software from the Bookstore?

• Do I really need a computer at school?

• What comes with a computer from the JMU Bookstore?

• Besides a computer, what else would I want to get?

• What is the difference between Dimension/Inspiron and Optiplex/Latitude and why do you only sell the Optiplex and Latitude lines?

• How do I order my computer from the JMU Bookstore?

• Where do I get my computer and how long does it take?

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

• How do I connect my computer to the JMU campus network (CampusNet) in my dorm?

• What other computer products does the JMU Bookstore sell?

• What are the terms and conditions of sale from the JMU Bookstore?

Q: Is there a discount on computers and software from the Bookstore?

A: Our academic pricing is discounted up to 20% for hardware and up to 80% on software compared to retail prices for the identical product. Keep in mind that the computers we sell are specially configured for our campus network and are the best systems on the market. They are not the typical off-the-shelf computers that you may see at bargain basement retailers.

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Q: Do I really need a computer at school?

A: Although computers are not required, it is strongly recommended that you have one. Email, internet research, class information posted on the web, instant messaging, writing papers, and completing coursework are some of the uses for a computer at college. Computer labs are available on-campus, but nothing can beat the convenience of your own computer. You will find having your own computer a very valuable investment.

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Q: What comes with a computer from the JMU Bookstore?

A: A Dell system comes with the MS Windows Vista Business OS. A Macintosh system comes with OS 10.5, and other Apple programs depending on model. Additional software, printer, cables, and peripherals are available in the JMU Bookstore and is sold separately, often at discounted pricing.

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Q: Besides a computer, what else would I want to get?

A: We recommend Microsoft Office 2007 Professional Plus (PC) and Office 2008 (Mac) as it is the most widely used and supported program at JMU. You should also consider getting a color inkjet printer, USB printer cable, Ethernet cable, a good surge protector, and a ream of paper. All of these items are available in the JMU Bookstore.

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Q: What is the difference between Dimension/Inspiron and Optiplex/Latitude and why do you only sell the Optiplex and Latitude lines?

A: Inspiron desktops and laptops are Dell's home use systems.  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. These systems are designed for Novell, certified for high-speed networks like our campus network, use consistent parts throughout making them simple to service, and have proven reliability.  These are the reasons we only sell Optiplex and Latitude systems to the JMU community.

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Q: How do I order my computer from the JMU Bookstore?

A: First, check our website (www.jmu.edu/bookstore) for our latest offerings and pricing. Then, call the JMU Bookstore Computer Program at 800-280-7543 or 540-568-3989 and we can take your order right over the phone. If you want assistance with your Dell or Apple configuration, just call us and we will configure a system for you. All orders must be made through the JMU Bookstore Computer Program to take advantage of the special academic pricing.

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Q: Where do I get my computer and how long does it take?

A: Usually, a computer arrives at the JMU Bookstore in 1-2 weeks from order date. This can vary depending on availability and time of year (generally in August, add a week). There is no shipping charge for computers shipped to the JMU Bookstore or shipped directly to you, via standard shipping. To make sure your computer arrives at home before you get to JMU, please order by July 25th. After July 25th and until August, your order will be available for pickup on your move-in day (location TBA). Those customers placing orders after August 8 will have their systems available for pick-up in the JMU Bookstore upon its arrival, and we will call you when it has arrived.

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Q: I'm an incoming student so when should I buy a computer?

A: Regardless of whether you purchase a computer from the JMU Bookstore or not, it is strongly recommended that you wait until after your Orientation session in June or July. At your session, you will hear from representatives from JMU's Information Technology Department with their recommendations for the best system to have supported at school. You will also meet with your advisor and others within your chosen major who will have additional recommendations. You will also have the opportunity to see the latest Dell and Apple systems available from the JMU Bookstore 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. To view current academic departmental recommendations, point your browser to: http://www.jmu.edu/computing/purchase/dept.shtml.

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Q: How do I connect my computer to the JMU campus network (CampusNet) in my dorm?

A: Pointing your browser to the following URL http://www.jmu.edu/computing/helpdesk/selfhelp/connected.shtml will take you to the Getting Connected page and should answer your questions. If you need additional information, please contact the Computing HelpDesk at 540-568-3555. By the way, all computers sold by the JMU Bookstore Computer Program meet the requirements for CampusNet.

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Q: What other computer products does the JMU Bookstore sell?

A: The JMU Bookstore carries academically priced software (savings up to 80%) from Microsoft, Adobe, SPSS, and may other software publishers. We also carry printers and accessories from Lexmark, Epson, HP, and Canon. Need cables? We have printer, USB, FireWire, power, and many more. Additional accessories include CD-R/RW's, DVD-RAM's, external hard drives, headsets, USB thumb drives, mice, keyboards, carry cases, and much more. If we don't have what you're looking for in stock, we can usually order it and have it for you in a few days. We strive to carry all items that you'll need for your computer so you can be successful and enjoy using your computer.

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Q: What are the terms and conditions of sale from the JMU Bookstore?

A: Due to industry trends, availability and pricing on all items is subject to change or discontinuation at any time without prior notice. For these reasons, we reserve the right to cancel any order at any time. The price on the date you place the order is final. All purchases are subject to state sales tax. Purchase of academically priced merchandise requires a valid JAC or college ID and is for students, parents, faculty, and staff only.

1. DOA's:
   If your system is Dead-On-Arrival, you must notify the JMU Bookstore within 24 hours to qualify for a return or replacement. A restocking fee will apply to all non-DOA hardware and printer returns. No Apple branded product may be returned or exchanged unless Dead-On-Arrival.

2. Return Policies; Exchanges:
   All returns and exchanges must be within 14 days of receipt and require the register receipt and original packaging in resalable condition. Software cannot be returned once the seal is broken. All products are covered by manufacturer's warranty and terms may vary. For printer service, contact the manufacturer directly.

3. Hardware Warranty Repair:
   Report all Dell and Apple hardware problems under warranty immediately to the JMU Computing HelpDesk at 540-568-3555 for hardware warranty service. If away from JMU, call Apple Service at 1-800-APL-CARE or Dell at 1-800-274-7799 (x69077/Optiplex, x69080/Latitude, x66409/Customer Care). Hardware warranties do not cover viruses, spyware, downloads, drivers, operating systems, and other software issues. It is strongly recommended that you download anti-virus and spyware removal software from https://secureweb.jmu.edu/computing/download/, keep them current, and run a full scan on your system often.

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