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Advantages for Parents and Students
You don’t have to worry about which computer to buy
The number one question Information Services personnel are asked at preview days is what kind of computer should I get? You debate whether to get a less expensive desktop or a more expensive laptop, and what features are most important. The MOVE program ensures every student has a suitable computer.
You are financing the computer over 2 years
As the expenses pile up from all those unexpected items associated with going to college the thought of also buying a computer can be disheartening. This plan enables you to spread the cost over 2 years.
Financial aid may cover some of the cost
Depending upon the individual’s financial situation it is possible that financial aid may cover some of the costs.
You aren’t out the expense for the software
Hardware is just part of the expense of buying a computer. While most computers come with the latest operating system, they do not come with the latest or most robust versions of software. Office alone can cost $300-$600, not to mention virus protection software and possibly departmental specific software. It is estimated the retail value of the installed software will be over $900.
Current software will always be provided
New versions of software are released quite often. If the student purchased the computer and the University upgrades to a newer version, the student will have to buy the upgrades to stay current. Since software upgrades will be included with the McMurry supplied computer, the computer will always have the same version as the labs and faculty. All software will come pre-installed and ready to use.
You will be provided current Anti-virus software
Viruses are a major problem on college campuses, particularly in the residence halls. Students at McMurry are now required to have virus protection on their computers. However, if the virus definitions are not kept current the computer could still get infected. McMurry receives the latest virus definitions and automatically downloads them to every University owned computer, which includes the tablet computers.
On-campus computer repair and support is available
It can be a helpless feeling to have a child call from school because their computer is having a problem and you are either miles away or don’t have the knowledge to help. If the computer is still under warranty, it may have to be boxed up and shipped back, or brought home on a weekend for repair. With on-campus repair available, the student would just bring it to the Student Computer Service desk on-campus. If it can’t be repaired quickly, loaner computers will be available.
Compatibility with campus wireless network
There are several standards for wireless networks available. A University supplied computer will guarantee compatibility with the McMurry wireless network, eliminating concerns about installing or configuring hardware.
Quality laptops are provided
There are computers built for home use and corporate grade computers. Many people lean to the least expensive computer. McMurry researches the laptops and purchase only corporate grade computers for the students. They are built a little more rugged to handle the constant jostling of a corporate traveler or student backpack. McMurry can also use their volume purchasing power to get more computer for the money.
Four-year warranty is included
Many laptops only come with a one-year warranty. The longest standard warranties are 3 years. The 2 year refresh will insure coverage for the entire 4 years.
4 Year Cost Comparison
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McMurry Lease Program
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Independantly Purchased
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Cost of Computer
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$3,040 (8 semesters @ $380/sem)
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$2,084
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| 2 Yr. Warranty |
included
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----
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2 Yr. ADP
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included
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$250
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| Office 2007 |
included
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$300++
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| OneNote |
included
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$499
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| Software Upgrade Protection |
included
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$100
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| AVG Anti-Virus |
included
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$127
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| IBM Websphere |
included
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$60
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| On-Campus Support |
included
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$150++
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| Loaner Computer |
included
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unavailable
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TOTAL $3,040
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TOTAL $3,570+++
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| Number of Computers |
2 computers (students receive
a new computer every two years)
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1 computer
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| Age of Computer at Graduation |
2 years
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4 years
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