Buying a Computer
Since buying a personal computer is usually a major investment for most students. It is important to carefully consider the alternatives before rushing out to buy a computer. Please remember that it is not necessary to own a computer to succeed at University since all students will have access to computers in facilities provided by the Information Services. Most students will also have access to computer facilities provided by their department or faculty. Even if you do have a computer at home it is unlikely that you will have all the software that is necessary for your course already installed on that computer. Some course require expensive specialised software that would be beyond the means of most students. In reality even those students who own computers will need access to those provided by the University at some stage during their studies.
Some alternative to buying a computer are:
- use those provided by general computer labs, the libraries, your department, and your faculty
- use those provided at your place of work
- use the computers in your local library
University students have the option to purchase computing products online directly from Apple and HP. Check out also the computer shop at Union House: Next Byte.
There is also GraysOnline that offer high quality, brand name computer and IT equipment at discount prices.