A Parents’ Survival Guide

The decisions used to include which typewriter or luggage or mini-fridge to buy for your college-bound youth. Now, which computer to buy for college is a very real part of the process. Parents, this article is just for you. If you’re looking for bits and bytes, get a copy of PC Magazine or talk to your kids; this is a practical, plain-English guide to get you through it.

The Basic Question

The first question every parent needs to ask is, “Does my student need a computer at college?” Some of the factors that might go into such a decision include whether the school or course of study require one, whether public access computers are readily available on campus, and how much your student has already integrated computer work into his or her studies. Let’s assume you and your underling have decided that a new computer will be of benefit. Now, the real choices begin.

Myriad Choices

The next step requires a little homework on your part. To help determine the right computer, you need to know the college and its environment. You can start by jumping on the school’s Web site or by calling the Admissions Office.

Let’s start with the decision of laptop vs. desktop computer. Much of this decision is driven by two factors: wireless access on campus and use of laptops in curriculum. To determine the use of wireless networking, look for a map of the campus that details areas where wireless service is available. If much of the campus is covered by wireless access, a laptop with wireless hardware might be in order. Such seems to be the case at Iowa State University, where wireless access is provided in many university locations (see http://www.tele.iastate.edu/telecom_home/wireless_rooms.htm). Contrast this with the University of Iowa, where wireless access is far less prolific (see http://www.its.uiowa.edu/tns/data/wirelessloc.htm). Keep in mind that this will be an ever-changing part of college life. Check regularly to see if coverage is expanding.

Some schools are starting to integrate technology into actual curriculum. However, even at tech-centric schools like Buena Vista University in Storm Lake, where all the students receive a laptop, not all classes use, or even allow the use of, laptops during class.

Next, consider this: laptops walk, desktops sit. By their very nature, laptops are more susceptible to theft. If the strong need isn’t there, laptops present many theft risks.

Other options should be looked at from the same view. Don’t make your student’s computer sprout legs by the add-ons you choose. This would include flat-panel displays, wireless mouse and keyboard combinations, speaker systems, digital cameras and printers. The more compact and portable these devices are, the more likely they are to walk away.

How much is the right amount of computer? Would you send your kid to college with a new Ferrari Enzo, or even your new Lexus? You’ve probably chosen the more utilitarian route. Consider the same for your frosh’s new computer. Getting from point 0 to 1 is the object here; you’re not buying the new Japanese Supercomputer. And, until your underclassman declares a major, specialize software isn’t necessary.

Look for a good starter system with Microsoft Windows XP (more about Macintosh in a minute) and Microsoft Office XP. Add antivirus software, like Symantec Antivirus or McAfee’s VirusScan. Throw in an encyclopedia program like Microsoft’s Encarta, if you’re feeling generous. Don’t be up-sold on more giga-whatevers (gigahertz for CPU speed, or gigabytes for disk storage). Remember: send Junior to school with a Chevy Cavalier, not the Enzo.

Accessorize as needed. A flat panel display does save desk space, but it adds cost. A tried and true wired mouse may add one more wire to the mix, but it might save a late night “it doesn’t work” call.

Making the Purchase

Now that you’re ready to buy, you’ll need to find the best deal. Start with your institute of higher learning. Never mind the fact that you’re already sending them a great deal of money. But, they may actually have deals on computers that save you money. Check with the school’s Admissions Office on the availability of special student purchases of computers.

Next are the retailers. Dell is a personal favorite. Their products are solid, prices are good and service is excellent. Don’t be afraid to price shop, though, even with on-line vendors. For example, if you find similar computers from two makers with different prices, tell the higher priced vendor. They just might match the lower price. I’ve even seen this work with Dell.

I promised a word on Macintosh. Macs are good machines, and they have their places (namely design, music and film studios). However, if you own a Mac on a mostly Windows campus and have a problem, you may feel like the owner of a Spanish SEAT auto trying to find service in Des Moines.

Three Extras for Your Student

USB Flash Drive: These are key-fob size storage drives that make floppy disks, even CD-Rs, obsolete. Sold in sizes like 64 Meg, 128 Meg and more, it goes in your USB slot on your computer (where you connect cameras and other gadgets). Then, it looks like another hard disk drive to your computer. You can save to it and carry it with you. It’s an easy way to bring homework home for the weekend.

Digital Camera: An inexpensive digicam could provide a useful tool or fun toy for your college kids. Combined with their computer, they can add photos to class work, particularly a student that is headed toward the arts. Or they can chronicle their college days, e-mailing photos to friends and family.

Color Printer: For less than $100, you can arm your student with their own color inkjet printer. Late night drafts on term papers fly off the printer. Posters for that hot new band would stand out for their use of color.