Computer (Revised 2010)
1. Are we set up for wireless connection on campus?
All of the campus buildings have wireless coverage.
2. Do you recommend a laptop over a desktop?
Laptops afford the student portability and durability that a desktop does not. Over 70% of our students have notebook computers. The availability of wireless access throughout the campus adds to the value of having a notebook. The difference in cost of notebooks vs. desktops has gotten smaller and an increasing percentage of students are purchasing notebooks. Family preference should dictate.
3. What type of computer would be recommended?
Any of the popular manufacturers build good computers. These include Dell, Gateway, Toshiba, Sony and most other commonly available models.
4. Which operating system do we need to get for the Ethernet?
Operating system and Ethernet are two distinct issues. Operating systems
include Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows VISTA, Windows 7 etc. Your operating
system does not affect your ability to use our service. Microsoft no longer
supports Windows 98 and we strongly recommend that students not use it.
Microsoft will drop support for Windows XP in the near future but there are no
issues with using it in the short term.
Ethernet is a type of technology used to access the computer network broadband
"backbone." For a student living on campus, or in the private apartments
adjacent to campus, the computer must be Ethernet capable or have an Ethernet
card. Most newer computers already have Ethernet capability (also called a
network interface card, or NIC) built in.
5. If they are going to be in the Pelican Island or
University Apartments, will they
have internet access?
The Pelican Island Private Student Housing and the University Apartments Galveston are located adjacent to campus and have internet access provided through the school. Student residing in this property must have a computer with an Ethernet capability or Ethernet card installed.
6. If a student has programs already on their computer, do they still have to purchase the license package that the university offers?
Students who currently have software on their computer will not be required to purchase the license upgrades, unless they desire to do so. TAMUG has a very cost effective program for students to purchase the current version of Microsoft Windows (~$15.00) and either the Windows or Mac version Microsoft Office (~$20.00). The bulk of the cost is covered via a Software fee that students pay and we strongly recommend that students take advantage of this program. This is available to students who are registered for classes at TAMUG through the TAMU College Station Software Evaluation Library. Current prices and software available can be seen at https://software.tamu.edu/sell-unsecure/products.aspx.
7. If you have a Macintosh and have an Ethernet, can they be used here?
Macintosh computers can connect to the campus network.
8. Are owners of Macintosh computers able to get the same discounted licensed software?
Students with Macintosh computers have access to the same Microsoft Office upgrades.
9. If a student is living at home and currently has a cable modem, will he/she be able to access the internet and e-mail?
If a student has a cable modem, then they have a current ISP (Internet Service Provider). Students will be able to access e-mail and the campus website using the ISP requiring the cable modem. However, the campus intranet (famously known as Mosquito Net, or MNET) and many TAMUG Library electronic databases will not be accessible without setting up a Virtual Private Network (VPN) connections. Should a student with a cable modem wish to have access to the full suite of TAMUG Library databases or Mosquito Net, they should stop by the Computing and Information Services (CIS) Office located on the first floor of CLB or check out the instructions at http://www.tamug.edu/computing/vpn/.
10. Is Microsoft Office required software?
While MS Office is not required, it is by far the most commonly found software on University computers and most commonly used by the campus community.
11. Student Software License for Microsoft Office?
Students have been able to purchase licenses to Microsoft software as part of Texas A&M University's Campus Agreement with Microsoft via http://software.tamu.edu. Licenses will be valid as long as the student is enrolled at A&M. Note: Software.tamu.edu is a program available out of College Station. Purchase and installation is up to the student.
The packages and their prices are:
• Office for Windows 2007: $20
• Office for Macintosh: $20
• Expression Web: $20
• Windows Vista Upgrade: $20
• Windows 7 Upgrade: $15
• Visual Studio. NET: $20
Package prices are in addition to the processing fees already charged to your tuition.