A new university program that offers Dell and Apple computers to students and faculty could shave as much as 50 percent from regular computer prices, officials said.
The Academic Computers for Terps program, launched July 13 by the Office of Information Technology, provides four models of computers from both Dell and Apple to students and faculty at reduced prices. The program even offers a four-year limited warranty for repairs at the OIT office.
“The ability to purchase state-of-the-art, campus-ready personal computers at an attractive price with campus service and support will enable more extensive adoption of computers into the learning process,” said Jeffrey Huskamp, vice president and chief information officer for the university, in a press release.
Apple offers two models of its MacBook notebook as well as one MacBook Pro notebook in various styles. Apple will also offer a version of its slim iMac computers, which features all of the computer’s hardware in the monitor. Dell offers two notebook computers as well as two desktop models at prices advertised as much as 50 percent off the regular price.
“In terms of providing university students with computers we realize the importance of accessibility and affordability,” said Michelle Mosmeyer, spokeswoman with Dell Education.
The computers will come preloaded with their standard operating systems and software as well as a bundle of software selected by the university. This software will include Mozilla Firefox, McAfee VirusScan, Adobe Reader and other programs.
To accommodate the new program, OIT is starting a new help desk and is currently training 13 students with plans to hire an additional two as technicians, said Phyllis Johnson, director of communications with OIT. In addition to providing repair services, the university will offer loaner computers to owners whose computers cannot be fixed during the day. OIT will use its existing budget to fund the new desk but cost estimates were not available, Johnson said.
The initial idea for the program started in fall 2005 because the university strongly recommended students have their own computers, she added. Various administrators from across the campus including the Dean’s Council, the University Senate and the IT Council were consulted as well as various colleges including arts and humanities, engineering and business and management. The Graduate Student Government was also included in the process.
The university then requested proposals from businesses that might be able to meet the university’s computer requirements. Dell’s proposal was accepted and Apple already had a contract with the university, which was modified to include the four-year warranty program.
The current ACT program does not offer accessories such as printers, wireless keyboards, speakers or popular MP3 players, such as Apple’s iPod, at reduced prices. Representatives for both Apple and Dell were unwilling to comment on whether such devices had been considered for the program, or would possibly be added to the project in the future. Special rebates and promotions cannot be used in conjunction with the discounted computers.
While the program has been confirmed beyond the 2006-2007 academic year, university officials were vague about the projects’ long-term prospects.
“[The university] anticipates expanding the program as it continues. Not sure at this time exactly what items may be offered in the in future,” Johnson said. “We welcome suggestions.”
The university joins a variety of schools that have partnered with computer manufacturers to provide computers for students and faculty. Dell has similar agreements with Boston College, Princeton and West Point. Apple has partnered with a variety of institutions including Salem International University, the University of Colorado at Boulder and Georgia College & State University to provide computers and iPods.
Contact reporter Alan J. McCombs at newsdesk@dbk.umd.edu.
