PBU Student Computing Program - Questions and Answers

This page is purposed to answer many of the basic questions you may have about Student Computing at PBU. If, after browsing this page, you still have questions, please feel free to contact our staff at student.computing@pbu.edu. We've broken down the questions into categories to help you find your answer more quickly. They are as follows:

Q: What if I already have an e-mail address and don't want another one?	A: If you already maintain an account with some other Internet provider or e-mail service and don't want to change addresses, you have the option of having all mail from your PBU account forwarded to your preferred account. You would only need to log in once and set it to autoforward. That way you will have a working PBU address where you can be reached, but you may also continue to use your personal account.
Q: Why do I have to maintain a PBU e-mail account when I already have an account with another service provider?	A: We regularly use e-mail to communicate with the entire student body, and therefore it is imperative that we are able to easily and efficiently manage all of the addresses for students.
Q: How long will I be entitled to an email account at PBU?	A: Once you enroll as a student, your account is yours for life! You can keep it as an alumni and use it indefinitely.
Q:I plan to buy a computer on my own and bring it with me to PBU. What do you recommend?	A: The answer to this question will really depend on your own personal needs. Most basic desktop or laptop systems on the market today will be serviceable for basic word processing, email and Internet use. Most online services offered at PBU are web-based now, so compatibility problems are becoming less and less frequent. We do recommend purchasing a laptop rather than a desktop so that you can use it in class and around campus while efficiently using the space in your dorm room. If you are planning to purchase a new computer for college, our laptop program provides a worthwhile option to consider.
Q:Does PBU offer wireless connectivity?	A: Yes! We have steadily been adding wireless access points around campus, and coverage is now available in most key places. Connectivity in the dormitories is provided exclusively via wireless. To connect in your dorm room, you will need a computer with wireless capabilities. To see our latest coverage map, please stop by the IT office.
Q:What wireless standards do PBU support or recommend?	A: If you are in the market for a laptop or a wireless card to go with your current laptop or desktop computer, we recommend the 802.11g wireless protocol. Our wireless access points are backwards compatible to the 802.11b standard, so either will work, but 802.11g may offer slightly better performance.
Q: Will the Penndel dorms be connected to the campus network?	A: There are currently no plans to offer connectivity in Penndel through our campus network. The Penndel dormitory complex is primarily private apartments for upperclassmen, married students, graduate students, and faculty/staff housing. These residents have the flexibility to choose an Internet provider of their choice or opt to not have connectivity.
Q: What connectivity options are there in Heritage Hall?	A: Heritage Hall is fully equipped with wireless services. No wired connections are available, so all Heritage Hall residents desiring Internet connectivity will need wireless capabilities on their computer. If you plan to reside in Heritage Hall and your computer is not currently equipped for wireless, you may want to purchase a wireless card compatible to the 802.11g standard.
Q: Will I have to get my computer configured to work with the PBU network?	A: When you first connect to the PBU system, you will directed to a signup page. This page will ask you a few questions about the specifications of your computer, but no additional configuration should be necessary. All student computers will be required to maintain a valid subscription to an Anti-VIrus software package of the student's choice. Grisoft's Free AVG software, but most any package will suffice.
Q: What level of technical support will be available from PBU's staff?	A:PBU's Technology Services Staff supports the various University web-based applications and will make sure you can get connected to the Internet. If you purchased a laptop through the PBU Laptop Program additional service will be offered as covered under the terms of the extended warranty for your computer. PBU is authorized as an official Toshiba Service Center, so if your computer (purchased via the Laptop Program) experiences mechanical failure, you can have it repaired on site--no sending your computer away and being without it for an extended time!
Q: Where can I find a listing of the web-based applications provided by PBU?	A: The Student Computing "Getting Started" brochure is a helpful resource. It lists the various student applications, URL addresses, support information, and a listing of the Wi-Fi hotspots. The brochure is included in all new student packets and is also available from the Technology Services department.
Q: Will I be able to use my laptop in class?	A: Yes! Our Biblical Learning Center classroom building offers wireless connectivity in select areas. Power outlets are available in the floor at nearly every desk in the entire building.

Laptop Program

Q: I think I can get a better deal through another vendor. Why should I purchase my computer through the University?	A: You are certainly free to purchase one privately, however, if you consider all of the factors, you will see that this is a nice offer for you to take advantage of. The University is NOT making a profit on the sale, and the computers are purchased at reduced pricing from academic discounts. It is a "package" deal which contains many extras that would not be included in a basic sale, such as a 4-year extended warranty, carrying case, software, security devices, cables, etc. If you compare "apples with apples" you will find that you will be hard-pressed to get a better price.
Q: I don't have quite enough cash, is financing available?	A: In order to offer the lowest price possible, neither the University nor CDW-G offer a financing option at this time.
Q: What if I have a computer that was not purchased through the University Laptop Program, but I need to have it repaired? What are my options?	A: The Technology Services staff will offer a diagnosis of the repair requirements at no cost. You then have the option of taking your computer to a local service vendor, or you may have it repaired on an after-hours, contract basis by a member of the technology team. Rates will be discussed when a diagnosis has been completed.
Q: Does the extended warranty cover damage or theft?	A: No. The computer will, however, come with an anti-theft device which will help to identify it as your personal property. (This is intended to serve as a significant deterrent to would-be thieves.) Students are encouraged to have their computers added to their parents' home-owners policy to help insure that there are no unexpected tragedies. The extended warranty only covers parts and labor for common hardware failure, not theft, abuse or accidental damage.
Q: Why doesn't this package come with a printer?	A: While the package endorsed by PBU does not include a printer, you may add a printer to your CDW-G purchase by either clicking on "more featured products" or searching the CDW-G site. You may also choose to purchase a printer from other reputable vendors, and we are available to recommend printer specifications.
Q: Do I receive a new laptop each year as part of the laptop program?	A: The laptop program provides a purchase basis for students to participate. The laptop included in the program is yours to keep. It is not a lending or trade-in based program.
Q: Was does the web page say the price is only an approximation?	A:Using the website provided by our partner, CDW-G, you have the availability to purchase additional accessories, other than those specifically mentioned in the specifications of the laptop program. The price will vary depending on the accessories you choose to purchase.
Q: What are the advantages/disadvantages of a Table PC vs. a traditional laptop?	A:The tablet PC provides the user with a stylus, a specialized writing device, to input data in the form of taking notes, sketching drawings, or handwriting documents. Tablets provide the digital artist the ability to sketch drawings with much more precision than the built-in touchpad or an external mouse. The tablet PCs are typically more expensive than traditional laptops because of the enhanced functionality of "writing on the screen." On the downside, there is a higher risk of damaging the screen. Some tablet PC models require the user to "rotate and flip" the screen to make use of the tablet functionality. If the screen is turned incorrectly it can cause significant damage to the machine. For a more comprehensive list of advantages and disadvantages check out this article at Wikipedia.