Yes. Through Columbia University Information Technology (CUIT), Barnard has made arrangements with Dell and Apple to provide educational discounts to Barnard students. See the CUIT Sales page for more information. We also have a contact with e-Academy for software discounts.
You should bring all software, hardware, information related to your computer with you to Barnard. This includes manuals, install disks, cables, etc. If something should happen to your computer, you might need to re-install some of your programs and therefore need the original disks and license number for them. It is particularly important to bring the main manual for your computer. If an ACE needs to assist you with your connection, she might need it to figure out how to open a difficult computer case or for a variety of other reasons.
Barnard Resnet provides support for both PC and Macintosh computers. ACEs are trained to troubleshoot both Macs and PCs and will be able to assist you no matter which operating system you choose. Barnard computer labs that are open for student use have primarily Dell computers. The Lehman Computer Center in the Barnard library also has several Macintosh computers for student use.
Although many students prefer the convenience of owning their own computers, it is not absolutely necessary. There are 24-hour computing labs in the Sulzberger basement and in the Plimpton and 616 residence halls. Lehman Computer Center is a staffed lab in the library with Dell and Macintosh computers. All of the computer labshave laser printing available. Please see the computer labs page for more information.
Barnard students may print 100 pages per week in the labs for free. However, while there are laser printers available in the every computer lab, many students choose to purchase their own inkjet or laser printers for the convenience of printing in their rooms. During rush times (i.e., midterms and finals), there can be long waits for a computer while many students try to complete and print out papers. In such situations, having a personal printer can be much more convenient. Note: When purchasing printers, please take into account that wireless printers will not work in dorms with secure residential wireless.
Most computers now come with ethernet cards already installed! Make sure your purchase is not redundant. Ethernet cards can be purchased at any computer store. Make sure to get a 10 or 10/100base-T that uses an RJ-45 twisted pair connection, as well as the appropriate cable to connect the card to the wall jack.