Sam M. Walton College of Business - University of Arkansas

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Technology FAQ
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. Gateway's is called Accidental Damage Protection.
What software should my computer have?
     Microsoft Office Professional Suite 2007, which includes Access, is ideal. However, the labs in the Business Building include all software needed for your business courses. You may want to consider purchasing the less expensive Office suite (or using Office 2003 with the converter) for your personal computer and using the labs when needing the Access software program.
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?
     802.11b/g is the current standard on campus. SSID on campus is UA-WLAN (this is case sensitive). Click here for instructions on how to configure your SSID. These instructions work for most public areas on campus as well as the Business Building and surrounding areas.
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 faculty and staff only.
Do I need virus and worm protection?
     DEFINITELY. You can get what you need here.
What else do I need to know about buying a computer for college?
     The campus computer store in the Union has several models configured and in stock this summer. www.uarkcomstore.com The table below is just a suggested list of configurations should you choose to purchase a computer. Note that laptops normally have lower speed processors and smaller hard drives by default:
 
Processor Speed    1.80 GHz
Memory    1GB (may need 2GB for Vista Operating System)
Hard Drive    80 Gig
Networking    Internal modem, internal 802.11b/g wireless and internal Ethernet Card
Backup & CD    DVD/CD RW (CDRW can be used for backing up files and assignment submission)
Operating System    Windows XP Professional (easiest to keep secure from virus attacks) or Vista
Warranty Maintenance    Extended Warranty, including no-fault damage protection and screen replacement coverage
Batteries    2 batteries, if laptop
Power cords    2 power cords (leave on at desk and one for backpack), if laptop
 
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© 2009 Sam M. Walton College of Business, University of Arkansas,
301 Business Building, Fayetteville, AR 72701, (479) 575-5949