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Personal Computer Recommendations

  • Do I need to bring a computer to school with me?
    • While having a computer can be very convenient, it is not required.
      The campus has several general access computer labs for student use.
      In addition, the Business Building has two labs available to business majors 24 hours a day, seven days a week via ID card access.
      These computers are equipped with all software needed to complete your degree. Keep in mind that these labs can be full at prime times during the day.
      Click here for more information on our labs.
  • If I am going to bring a computer to school, should I get a laptop or a desktop?
    • Laptops have the advantage of portability, and with a laptop you can take advantage of the wireless network in the Business Building and other areas of campus. However, desktops are a bit less expensive and generally last longer because of the wear and tear associated with transporting laptops. THE MOST IMPORTANT PURCHASE with any computer is a WARRANTY that includes replacement parts no matter the cause of the breakage. Dell's is called CompleteCare. Apple’s is called AppleCare Protection Plan.  It’s a good idea to purchase warranty coverage for the period of time you need the computer to function properly. 
  • What Software should my computer have?
    • The computer labs in the Business Building include all software needed for your business courses.
      Please visit the computer store on campus or online (www.microsoft.com/student) they have great prices on software.
  • Where can I store my files, and what about backup?
    • When logged into a campus computer using your uark.edu account, the MY DOCUMENTS is mapped to your comp.uark.edu account, so you can save documents there and open them from any campus computer. We recommend you backup your files REGULARLY! Backup options include USB Keys, CDRs, and comp.uark.edu
  • How do I get connected to the wireless network?
    • UA Secure and UA Wireless are the two WiFi networks available on campus. Click here for instructions. These instructions work for most public areas on campus as well as the business building and surrounding areas.
  • How does the campus support printing? Do I pay anything for printing?
    • Your PrintSmart quota is the equivalent of 700 single-sided black toner pages, or a value of $35 in any combination of the following:

      • Laser printer, black, single-sided, $.05 per page
      • Laser printer, black, double-sided, $.08 per page
      • Color printer, single-sided, $.20 per page

      When you print in a public or academic lab, your remaining PrintSmart quota will be displayed in a pop-up window after you send a document to the printer. It will also be displayed again at the print release station.

      If you have exceeded your quota, the cost required to print will be displayed, and you must swipe your University ID card at the release station to pay from your Razorbucks account or use a copy card.

  • Who can help me if I have computer questions?
    • http://askit.uark.edu is the CAMPUS LEVEL (including all students) computing support. The Technology Center for the Sam M Walton College of Business provides computing support for the Business Building labs and Business students, faculty, and staff only.
       
  • What else do I need to know about buying a computer for college?
    • Please note, these are minimum advised requirements for efficient working.

     

    Processor Speed     1.80 Ghz
    Memory (RAM)  1 GB
    Hard Drive   80GB
    Networking  Internal Modem, Internal 802.11b/g internal ethernet card, CD/DVD RW  (for taking backup)
    Operating Systems

    Microsoft Windows XP professional or Windows 7

    Warranty Maintenance Extended Warranty, including no-fault damage protection and screen replacement coverage.
    Batteries 2 batteries, if laptop
    Power cords 2 power cords (leave one at desk and one for backpack), if laptop

      The campus computer store in the Union has several models configured and in stock this summer.  www.uarkcomstore.com     Their support team is certified to work on several models and it is possible to transfer warranty previously purchased to their shop.    And YES, Apple models will allow you to do your Walton College assignments!   The less expensive laptops (sometimes called netbooks) are a fine option if you keep in mind that the hardware components are generally not as sturdy/reliable as a Dell or Apple and therefore may not last you until graduation.

  • How do I protect my Computer from Virus attacks?
    • It is highly recommended that you have a good, up to date, virus protection program.  The University has purchased antivirus software from Symantec Antivirus for machines owned by the University, and any personal machines owned by Faculty, Staff, and Students so long as they are affiliated with the University.   The software is available on the University’s Information Technology website, here
  • Please go through this manual. Also, follow the safe computing practices.
     

     

    Sam M. Walton College of Business
    Business Building 301
    Fayetteville, AR 72701
    PH: (479) 575-5949
    FX: (479) 575-3241
    connect@walton.uark.edu