Santa Clara University

Purchasing a computer for use at SCU 

While any brand of PC will probably work on our network, we do have a few recommendations to keep in mind when purchasing a PC. To learn more about the program login to Ecampus and select the your desired vendor.

Brand

SCU Information Technology recommends the use of Apple or Dell personal computers, as we have had generally positive experiences with those brands.  If you purchase an Apple, instead of getting the AppleCare warranty, consider purchasing an extended warranty instead through SafeWare by following the link below:

http://www.safeware.com/santaclara/

Configuration

While just about any new PC purchased today has more than enough capability for the average college student, we do recommend looking for the following features:

• Dual Core Processor
  
• A CD-RW or DVD-RW drive for backing up data
• At least 2 GB RAM and a 80GB hard disk or larger
  
• Front-mounted USB ports for plugging in a USB storage device
• Extended warranty that covers accidental damage (all Dell systems purchased through ECampus have this)
• Insure you secure a set of  system recovery CD/DVD