Question about laptop

[WorldofDocs]

I know I need laptop, but what else do need? How would I able to set up my internet? Thanks

[Carlota321]

You need to make sure you have either an internal or external wireless card. Otherwise you setup your internet just like you would at home.

[papaya]

I don't even use my laptop but other students can't live without theirs. I use library computers. I recommend bringing a cheap printer too, the one in the library breaks quite often and the staff is on break to get printouts when you need them sometimes.

[txdoc22]

I bought a new laptop before I came (my other one was dying) and I am very glad I did. I use it all the time, bring it to class, use it to study, etc. But I do know a handfull of people who don't use one. I wouldn't count on the library computers being available, and the server on campus is pretty slow. I did bring a printer, too, and am glad that I did. I still print on campus the bulk of my handouts and stuff, but it's nice to have some things in color or print last minute when I can't make it back to campus. But, yes, definitely have a wireless card.

[papaya]

txdoc makes a good points, some students type out class notes, so that may be another reason you may want to have a laptop.

I am old fashion and handwrite everything, so I just write on printouts and don't want to lug a laptop around, especially when mine weighs 10lbs.

Best option is to buy a light one, since you don't want to walk in the heat with a heavy laptop.

And then you can decide down here whether or not you want one.

The other flipside is some students don't like working in the computer lab, it can get crowded and noisy, so if you are one who enjoys quiet when you listen to lecture or study, best to bring one.

**I cannot emphasize enough, bring a printer, especially first week, it took many hours to get printouts as there was a bottleneck and the broken printers and 2hr lunch computer lab staff breaks per day can slow you down, which you do not need when you have enough work to do already.

Good luck.

[liqu0rleadstocha0s]

are the notes on pdf? powerpoint? word? please let me know. thanks.

[islandthrift]

It depends on the professor but the greater majority are on powerpoint.

[Shadowstar]

A few questions....

-Would a wireless card allow me to connect to the internet at my apartment (in Dominica)?

-Do they have printers small enough and portable so that I can bring one with me? Also, will the printer be able to work with laptops?

-Anyone recommend any good laptop brands? Like Dell or something...whats good out there right now (I'm totally in the dark when it comes to laptops)?

Thanks...

[liqu0rleadstocha0s]

Notebook and Laptop Reviews (http://www.notebookreview.com/)

[islandthrift]

Although I have heard good things about Macs, the are not completely compatable with campus. Most things will work on the campus system but you will have trouble with other things. Maybe someone who currently has a MAC can elaborate about campus usage?

[Shadowstar]

Thanks for the tips Island, I'm leaning towards dell/sony/hp. But another thing on my mind right now is if having one is absolutely necessary. I know it would be helpful, but does the university require you to have one? I'd love to get one, but if I can save a thousand bucks and manage without one, I would...I'm still debating at the moment.

[gimmeaknyfe]

The university doesn't require that you have a laptop, but all the professors will assume that you have access to their material and mediasite, which are all online. The reason why I would recommend a laptop is because desktop computers are extremely bulky and unreasonable to carry this far away. Also, it allows me to study a lot at home as well and have access to information/resources when I'm at my apartment (instead of being on-campus 24/7). If you want to save money and you're used to working without a computer at home, then don't waste the money. Otherwise, I would recommend you get one - because it'll be four months before you can get back to the states if you change your mind and want a laptop halfway through.

[jconlyway]

im bringing a macbook that runs windows and a toshiba for my wife and girls to use at home. has anyone had a problem with running a mac on th e island?

[Shadowstar]

One more laptop question....will I be able to access the internet at my apartment with my laptop? I read mention of a wireless card...if I have a wireless card, will I get internet everywhere on the island?

[islandthrift]

If you have a wireless card, either internal or external, you can pick up any wireless signal as long as there is a signal to pick up. If you buy a wireless router for your apartment, you will be able to access the internet in your apartment without having to plug your your computer in. All over campus has wireless access too. But if there is no signal to pick up, you won't be able to access the internet.