Answers 8-10
8. Is there a specific laptop that is required for all DCT students?
As has been noted, students may purchase or use
whatever laptop they desire which meets the minimum recommended power and operating standards.
Effective Summer 2008, students may choose to purchase their new laptop online directly from one of the DCT approved vendors. Students choosing to purchase a laptop from an approved vendor will deal directly with the vendor when purchasing their laptop. (The DCT department will not be involved with any sales involving laptops, nor will it receive a commission, or any other type of financial advantage, in regards to the sale of any laptops by a vendor who is associated with the DCT programs.) The approved list of laptop models will give students a few different options at varying prices. All models available from the approved vendors will come with essential power and operating standards for the price quoted. Students who wish to add any additional features to any of the approved models, may do so at the quoted option prices.
Beginning in the Fall 2010 semester, students entering or transferring into all DCT programs will be required to purchase one of the department approved laptop models. Laptop models which have been negotiated with approved vendors will include student discounts and a 4-year full warranty. The DCT department at that time will also have an established service center located within the School which will work under contract with the laptop vendor from which the student purchased their unit. The service center will be able to supply a select number of loaner laptops to those students who place their laptop in the service center for any repairs.
9. What operating system should I have on my laptop?
At this time, several operating systems work well with graphics software. However, we recommend using XP or Vista on laptops due to the compatibility it has with
most software programs. If you have a Mac it is reccomended that you upgrade your os to Leopard so you can duel boot to XP or Vista.
10. In what ways are the DCT programs supporting the laptop program?
The DCT programs have identified reputable computer vendors that have proven their trustworthiness in other student laptop programs already operating at IUPUI
and other sister institutions of higher education. Laptops purchased from the approved vendors have been carefully chosen to meet and exceed the operating needs
of all programs in DCT.
DCT strongly advises that all students obtain their own personal copy of all textbooks recommended for each course offered within the CGT, ART, and INTR programs. However, in an effort to assist students cover the cost of their laptops and associated software bundles, DCT will purchase and keep on library reserve (or through electronic format) multiple copies of each textbook stipulated for all classes. Students therefore, may access these textbooks for required readings on a free loan basis.
The purchase of laptops is also supported as necessary academic supplies in terms of financial aid budgets.
