Apple Frequently Asked Questions
Why should my son or daughter buy a Mac for college?
Everything is easier on a Mac. The operating system is bullet proof. The software is more intuitive. The hardware is more reliable. In addition to integrating seamlessly with PCs, the Mac lets you run integrated productivity applications like Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.* With higher productivity, and a more enjoyable computing experience, your son or daughter will have a competitive edge in college with a Mac. And did you know that your student is eligible for special student discounts on all Apple computers? Not only is a Mac affordable, but it comes loaded with award-winning digital media software that would cost hundreds of dollars on a PC.
* Microsoft Office is sold separately.
Can a Mac run Microsoft Office?
Yes, a Mac can run Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, and Microsoft Entourage. In fact, in addition to everything you'd expect, Microsoft has put additional features into the Mac versions that don't exist in their Windows counterparts. For more information on Microsoft's products for the Macintosh, and on Microsoft's continued commitment to the Macintosh platform, check out Microsoft's Mac-only website, Mactopia.
Will my son or daughter fit in on campus with a Mac?
Absolutely. Networking, productivity software, and Internet software all work as well or better on a Mac. This school sanctions and supports the Mac.
If you learn on a Mac, won't you have trouble in the "real" world?
The Macintosh operating system, called Mac OS X, is a lot like Windows, with a few key distinctions. First, Mac OS X is based on industry standards. That means your son or daughter will learn skills that can be used on any operating system - not just the Mac. Second, the Mac provides the freedom to innovate. Instead of worrying about whether your son or daughter will "fit in," choose the platform that will allow for the greatest professional and personal expression, flexibility, and growth. Choose the platform that will encourage your student to "stand out" and excel in their college life.
How does Apple's warranty stack up?
Any Mac you choose comes with 90 days of toll-free phone support, and a one-year limited warranty. In 2004, Apple's warranty was rated number one for the fifth year running. How's that for peace of mind? You can also upgrade your warranty to 3 full years of phone support and 3 years of limited warranty with the Apple Care Protection Plan.
If my son or daughter gets a Mac, I won't be able to help when there's a computer problem. How can he or she find help?
The VSU Tech Shop is a Certified Apple Reseller and a Certified Apple Service Center. If your son or daughter experiences problems, we are here to help. We handle Apple Warranty repairs just like an Apple Retail Store. Also, we offer "Get to Know Your Mac" training, which is similar to Apple's "One-on-One" Training. Students who purchase Macs from the VSU Tech Shop can stop by any time or schedule an appointment with our Technicians for help with just about any Mac question. We are here to ensure that your son or daughter has only the most positive experiences with their new Mac.
Apple's processors seem slower than other PC processors for the same price. Why should I pay the same amount for a slower computer?
Apple now uses Intel Core 2 Duo processors in all of their computers. These are the same processors that you will find in high-end PCs. Many PCs come with Celeron and Pentium processors, which are no match for the power of a dual-core processor. And, with OS X SnowLeopard, Macs can utilize the dual-core processor even better.
Is my son or daughter eligible for a discount from Apple?
Yes. We sell all of our Apple computers at Education Discount prices. This discount varies by model, so please come by the shop or call so we can give you our latest pricing information.
I've heard Macs are more expensive than PCs. Why is that?
Don't be mislead by sticker price. When comparing prices, make sure the PC you're pricing has the same features. You should take a look at the list of software and hardware included on a Mac before drawing any conclusions. iLife, Apple's award-winning suite of digital media applications, is preloaded on every Mac. For similar applications on a PC, you'd have to spend hundreds of dollars. Macs are also designed and built using high-quality parts and materials. While this may seem trivial, it adds to your computer's longevity, which means less money spent on repairs and a longer life for your computer.
How much memory (RAM) is enough to last through college?
2 Gb of RAM will serve the average college student. Some applications like Photoshop, Aperture, Logic, and others will run better with more RAM. If you son or daughter is into photo editing, video editing, or sound mixing, you might consider getting a RAM upgrade. All Macs are compatible to support 4 Gb of RAM or more.
How much hard drive space is enough to last through college?
This depends on what you expect your student to do with his or her Mac. The average MP3 music file, usually one song per file, takes up about 4 Mb of hard drive space, whereas one minute of video footage can take up about 210 Mb. In general, 160 GB (or 160,000 MB) is as small as you'd want to go. 250 GB is roomier, and 320 GB will provide plenty of room for years to come. Also consider external hard drive storage. A good combination is a 160 GB main hard drive and a 320-500GB external drive. By storing music, pictures, movies, and other files on an external drive, you can keep your main drive free of clutter to keep it performing a quickly as possible.
What's better for college - desktop or laptop?
Mobility, particularly in this age of wireless Internet connectivity, is central to campus computing lifestyles. And while a desktop system will certainly do the trick, most students find that the freedom and flexibility of a laptop serves them better through their years at college.
I'd like to try a Mac out. Where can I go for a test drive?
Come visit the VSU Tech Shop. We currently have a 24" iMac, a white MacBook, a 13"Aluminum Unibody MacBook Pro, and a 15" Aluminum Unibody MacBook Pro on demo. We would love to show you the exciting world of OS X Snow Leopard and Apple computers.
I still have some questions about getting a new Mac. Who can I ask for advice?
Again, all of our Sales Associates and Technicians are very knowledgeable about Apple computers. In fact, all of our employees use a Mac as their primary personal computer. We can answer any questions you may have concerning your life with a new Mac.