FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
When will the 2008-2009 recommended models be posted to the Mobile Monarch Web site?
April 2009.
Who will be eligible to participate in the program?
Any new or current ODU student is eligible to purchase a notebook online or calling a toll-free telephone number. Faculty and Staff may participate by presenting an ODU ID card to the MonarchTechstore.
Is participation mandatory?
No. However, the University strongly recommends that all incoming freshmen have a notebook that meets the University's minimum requirements. Please review Program Requirements and Reasons to Buy (see Non-Program Notebooks section if you are considering purchasing a non-program notebook).
How do I participate in the program?
Information on buying a program notebook will be available on the Mobile Monarch Web site. Recommended models for the 2008-2009 academic year are expected to be posted to the Web site in April 2009.
What are the benefits of purchasing a notebook through the ODU program?
There are many benefits to purchasing a notebook through the program:
- Program notebooks have been selected to meet the requirements of the University's academic computing environment.
- Program notebooks are configured to work with the campus wireless network.
- Program notebooks come preloaded with software required for academic use.
- An on-campus support center will be available to provide support services, including warranty repairs, for owners of program notebooks.
What if I already own a notebook or desktop computer?
Students may bring non-program wireless notebooks to meet the University requirement if that notebook meets the minimum standards set by the University. The suitability and operation of a non-program notebook is the full responsibility of the student. Non-program notebooks are eligible for limited support, and it is the responsibility of the student to purchase and load the recommended academic software.
If I don't have a notebook, can I still purchase one? If so, is there a due date?
Students may purchase a notebook at any time. Students entering for Fall Semester, 2009 should wait for the 2008-2009 models to be posted in April 2009..
Will graduate students and currently enrolled ODU students be eligible to purchase a notebook through the program?
Yes. All current students may elect to buy a program notebook.
What if I am a part-time student?
Part-time students (undergraduates enrolled in less than 12 credit hours) are also eligible to participate.
Are there other notebook requirements at ODU outside of the Mobile Monarch Program?
Yes. Some schools and degree programs have notebook requirements separate from the Initiative. You should contact your department to determine the particular details of your program's requirement.
When should I buy a notebook?
For entering students, as soon as the ordering site becomes available, usually around April/May. We recommend ordering by the end of July before you enter the Fall Semester..
Why can't I just go to my closest retail store and buy a $600 computer?
You can, but beware. It may not be the investment you need for your academic needs. Mobile Monarch notebooks were recommended to last you for four years. The ODU computers are typically business class systems with standard components that are more reliable and easier for the ODU staff to troubleshoot and support. The machines we offer are bundled with a 4 year warranty and accidental damage protection. You will also need to ship it to the vendor if you have hardware problems, the ODU Technical Support Center will not repair non-program notebooks.
What type of notebooks will be offered?
There are two recommended notebook vendors: Lenovo and Apple. Each vendor will offer models that meet the minimum requirements of the campus and high-end models that offer better performance. Some departments may recommend a particular vendor or model for students enrolled in their program.
What operating system and software will be included?
A selection of software will come loaded on notebooks purchased through the program. This software was selected to meet the general computing requirements of required participants.
Will you install Vista on my program notebook?
Yes, but the recommended Lenovo notebooks have Vista installed.
How do I get a copy of Microsoft Office 2007 for my notebook?
Microsoft licensing has allowed ODU to distribute Office software to Mobile Monarch Participants. Lenovo ThinkPads are distributed with Office 2007 Student Select Version already installed. The cost of the software is included is the cost of the notebook. Media CD's are available from the MonarchTechstore once the semester begins. Office 2008 Home and Student Edition for MacBooks is available from the Monarch Techstore at a discounted price.
Will ODU provide all of the software that I can access in the computer labs?
No. Only a subset of programs available in the computer labs will be licensed for use and preloaded on program notebooks. Students are eligible to purchase select additional software at a discount. Your instructor will let you know if you need additional software for a class.
Is there software specific to my major?
Possibly. Students should contact a representative of their major for more information.
Is wireless access available all over campus?
Wireless access is being provided in virtually all classrooms, in addition to certain common areas used by students. Outdoor service is provided in select areas.
Is the ODU network secure?
A user name and password are required to access the current ODU wireless network, and the types of traffic that can be passed over the network are limited to increase its security.
Cost
How much will the notebook cost?
Current pricing information is available on the Mobile Monarch Lenovo and Apple sites.
Is there financial aid available to help me purchase a notebook?
Yes. Eligible students are those who have received a financial aid award notification and a refund check. Your financial aid refund check may be used toward the purchase of a notebook computer. In addition, check the Lenovo and Apple Web sites for special payment arrangements.
Is there a payment plan?
Lenovo is offering a payment plan for the first time this year. Call Lenovo or visit their web page for information.
Warranty and Repair Services
Will the notebooks have a warranty?
With the exception of the notebook battery, which has a one-year warranty, program notebooks have a four-year warranty at the time of purchase. The on-campus service center will perform warranty repair work on program notebooks.
What about protection against accidental damage for my Lenovo or Apple notebook?
Lenovo ThinkPads purchased through the program are covered for four years under the ThinkPad Protection service. It protects against accidental damage due to power surges, drops or falls, liquid spills, and LCD damage caused by a drop or a fall. Any accidental damage covered by the ThinkPad Protection service can be repaired at the on-campus service center. Apple MacBooks purchased through the program are covered for four years under AppleCare.
What about theft or fire insurance?
ThinkPad and AppleCare Protection excludes theft, loss, or damage due to fire or intentional acts. Students (and parents) are encouraged to contact their current insurance provider to ask about covering the notebook under their current homeowner's or renter's insurance.
What do I do if my notebook breaks?
If the problem is covered under warranty for ThinkPad Protection, the student may bring the notebook to the on-campus service center for repair. A limited number of loaner notebooks will be available for students whose notebooks are being repaired.
Will I be able to get my notebook repaired on campus?
Yes, there is an on-campus service center at the Technical Support Center in Webb Center for persons who purchase a program notebook.
Ordering Information
How do I place an order?
Visit the Ordering Information page. From there you will be directed to the purchasing sites prepared by the selected vendors for use by program participants.
How do I get a printer?
Printers and other peripherals and supplies are available though the vendors' Web sites at a discount to ODU students.
Why do I need a 25-35' Ethernet cable?
All Residence Hall rooms contain Ethernet connections and the campus has wireless connectivity. An Ethernet connection will always provide a faster, more reliable, and more secure connection than a wireless network connection; therefore, we recommend that you use a hard-wired Ethernet connection when using your computer in your room. A 25-35' cable to allow for maximum flexibility in the configuration of your room. Order a cable from the vendor or drop by the MonarchTechstore.