Madison CyberZone FAQ
Our academic pricing is discounted up to 20% for hardware compared to retail prices for the identical product. Our price already includes the warranty required to receive on-campus service.
You should consider getting a laptop sleeve, color inkjet printer, USB printer cable, a good surge protector, and a USB thumb drive. All of these items are available at the Madison CyberZone.
You do not need to purchase MS Office. JMU provides Microsoft Office 365 to all enrolled JMU students. For more information, visit https://www.jmu.edu/computing/software/.
Latitude and Precision laptops are Dell's enterprise level systems. They are designed to provide the most reliable performance for the lowest total cost of ownership. These systems are thoroughly tested, designed for high-speed networks like our campus network and use consistent parts throughout the life of each model. They are easy to service and have proven reliability. They are built to be carried around and used every day, anywhere, for several years.
Inspiron laptops are Dell's consumer and home use systems. They are designed to provide the lowest initial price. They are not tested as thoroughly and use varying components through the life of each system depending on the cost of components at build time. They tend to be less reliable and more difficult and more expensive to service. They are built to be carried from room to room in your home and to be taken on the occasional vacation.
With our academic discount, our price for Latitude and Precision laptops is close to (and sometimes lower than) the price for equally equipped and warrantied Inspiron laptops. When you account for the durability and reduced down-time of the Latitude and Precision, they are the better buy.
If you have questions and want to make sure you get the best computer for your time at JMU, it is recommended that you wait until your Springboard 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 have the opportunity to see the latest Dell and Apple systems available from the Madison CyberZone 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. View current academic departmental recommendations here.
If you want to beat the rush and you know what computer you want, call the Madison CyberZone for a consultation and we will help you order the best system to meet your major’s recommendations and get the computer to you as soon as possible.
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 is for eligible JMU students, parents, faculty and staff only, and requires a valid JMU ID Card or other proof of eligibility.
-
DOA's:
If your system is Dead-On-Arrival, you must notify the Madison CyberZone within 1 business day of receiving your computer to qualify for a return or replacement. The Madison CyberZone will provide you with a return label to the JMU Bookstore for the DOA computer and will order you a new replacement computer or refund your purchase depending on your preference and the availability of a replacement. Contacting the manufacturer directly usually complicates and delays the replacement process. -
Return Policies / Exchanges:
Apple and Dell branded products may be returned or exchanged within 14 days of receipt, with original packaging, and in re-salable or returnable condition (unless Dead-On-Arrival). A restocking fee will apply for all non-DOA hardware and printer returns and exchanges: 10% Closed Box, 20% Open Box. Software and media cannot be returned once the seal is broken. All products are covered by manufacturer's warranty and terms vary. For printer service, contact the manufacturer directly. -
Hardware Warranty Repair:
While at JMU, bring your computer to the Madison CyberZone at the JMU Bookstore for hardware warranty service. If away from JMU, call AppleCare Support for Education at 800-800-2775 option 3 or Dell at 866-456-0827.IMPORTANT!: Dell’s hardware warranties do not cover viruses, spyware, downloads, drivers, operating systems or other software issues. You would need to pay for software services. AppleCare Support will assist you with MAC OS and other Apple-branded software issues at 800-800-2775 option 3.
Apple computers sold by the Madison CyberZone with AppleCare+ for Mac are covered for a total of three years from the date of purchase. AppleCare+ includes 24 hour phone support from Apple for questions on using Apple branded hardware and software. Service coverage is available only for Mac and its original included accessories for protection against (i) defects in materials or workmanship, (ii) batteries that retain less than 80 percent of their original capacity, and (iii) up to two incidents of accidental damage from handling of your Mac, each incident being subject to a service fee of $99 for screen damage or external enclosure damage, or $299 for other damage, plus applicable tax. If your Mac has catastrophic damage from an accident or is inoperable after unauthorized modifications, you will need to buy a replacement. Complete terms and conditions are posted here.
Dell computers sold by the Madison CyberZone with Dell's four year Pro Support Plus with accidental damage protection warranty are covered for a total of four years from the date of purchase. Dell Pro Support Plus covers parts and labor for hardware repairs due to manufacturing defects or normal use. Accidental damage protection covers up to one repair per contract year due to accidental damage for four years. Pro Support Plus offers limited phone support for third-party software problems and Windows problems. Pro Support Plus with accidental damage protection does not cover virus/malware removal, Windows reinstallation by a technician or cosmetic damage that does not affect the function of the computer (scratches, dents, loosening hinges, etc). Complete terms and conditions are posted here. Dell batteries are considered consumable and are typically covered for one year from the date of purchase.
