Find answers to many of your technology related questions before you arrive on campus.

Should I bring a computer to Calvin?

Calvin strongly recommends students bring a computer to Calvin. Technology has become an important tool in our everyday lives, and this holds true at ÇÑ×ÓÊÓƵ. As a Calvin student, you do have access to some computer labs and the campus network if you prefer not to bring a computer. Most Calvin students do choose to purchase their own personal computer for the following reasons:

Convenience - Most of Calvin's faculty use online material to enhance their classroom teaching. Students who have a personal computer have unlimited access to these academic resources. Although Calvin does provide many computers across campus for student use, occasionally there may be greater demand for computers than the resources available.

Access - Students with personal computers can use them whenever they need, at any time of day. Calvin students have access to Calvin's high-speed Internet and network service, both wired and wireless.

Control - How do you study? Some do their best work in a quiet environment while others can be productive surrounded by people. If you own a computer, you have more control over the environment you choose to study in.

Can I bring a computer I already own?

As long as your computer meets the minimum recommendations, it should provide an acceptable level of performance for basic computing. Some academic departments and areas of study may recommend that your computer meet additional standards beyond the minimum recommendations, so it may be worth checking with an academic advisor to see what they recommend.

If you do choose to bring an older computer, keep in mind that it may not have the power to be useful throughout your entire college career. If your computer system does not meet or exceed the minimum recommendations, we recommend that you upgrade your current computer or purchase a new one. The Calvin Information Technology HelpDesk is not able to offer technical assistance for computers that do not meet the minimum recommendations.

What kind of computer should I buy?

Which computer you purchase is really a matter of personal preference. Calvin supports both Mac and PC. Good brands of computers to consider are Dell, Apple, HP, Lenovo, or Asus.

If you don't have a personal preference, consider asking an academic advisor in the area of study you are interested in to see if their department has specific recommendations for students

Will a tablet or Chromebook be sufficient?

Some students do choose to use a tablet or Chromebook computer as a primary note-taking device in class, but keep in mind these devices may not be the most ideal for writing large papers or working on big projects. These devices do not run full operating systems like Windows or macOS, which means you may not have access to all necessary software programs or their complete features. If you choose to use a Chromebook, make sure it's no longer under high school management restrictions.

How much should I spend?

If you decide to purchase a laptop, take note of how well the laptop is constructed. Laptops with plastic cases may be less expensive, but an indication of a plastic case may also be an indication of lower quality internal components. As a general rule, we recommend spending more than $600 for a laptop, regardless of brand and model. Most laptops above the $600 price point will be made of higher quality materials, be more durable, and last longer.

Where should I buy a computer?

You can purchase your computer either in-store or online. Consider visiting a retail location first to test models even if you plan to purchase online. Buying from major manufacturers or national retailers typically makes repairs and upgrades more convenient. Purchase your computer well before classes begin to give yourself time to become familiar with it.

Should I purchase an extended warranty and/or insurance?

You should consider purchasing an extended warranty, or at very least an accidental protection plan. Most new computers include some type of limited warranty, but they may not cover accidental damage. If you plan to be carrying around your laptop a lot, it may be worth the extra cost to ensure if your laptop is dropped or spilled on that you will not have to purchase another new computer.

You should also consider the possibility of insuring your computer by including a rider on your parent's homeowners insurance policy. This may cover accidental damage such as liquid spilling on your laptop or the computer being dropped/broken that normal computer warranties do not cover.

Will Calvin Information Technology support my personal computer?

The CIT HelpDesk provides support for connecting and registering your personal computer to the wired and wireless networks.

While we provide basic troubleshooting assistance, our support has limitations. If you experience computer problems, bring your device to the HelpDesk and we'll work to resolve the issue. For more complex problems involving hardware failures or operating system reinstallation, we can recommend local repair shops for additional assistance.

Should I bring my own printer or router?

Personal printers are allowed but not recommended, as most consumer wireless printers won't work with Calvin's wireless authentication system. If you bring a printer, use a USB cable for direct connection to your computer. CIT cannot provide setup or troubleshooting help for personal printers. You will also be responsible for the cost of paper and supplies for your printer, which is significantly more expensive per page than the on-campus printing system. 

You can print to any printer on campus from your own personal computer or from a Calvin lab computer. Every student has a printing budget that resets each semester. This budget allows students to print to printers around campus. If you use up your print budget, you may continue printing, and the overages will automatically be charged to your Miscellaneous account.

Personal routers and wireless networks are prohibited as they interfere with student networks.

Do I need to buy any software for my computer?

You may want to consider purchasing or downloading antivirus software for your computer. All Calvin students have access to download Microsoft Office as part of Office 365, so you will not need to purchase any Office productivity software.

CIT is unable to provide or install any software on personal computers, but there may be software available to you through your area of study.

IoT Devices

Internet of Things (IoT) devices—including smart lighting, sound machines, sleep machines, entertainment systems, and similar technology—may have connectivity issues on Calvin's WiFi network. These devices often face three main problems:

1. Limited WiFi compatibility with the campus network
2. Security vulnerabilities that pose risks to the network
3. Network configurations that may allow other users to control your device

Due to these concerns, many IoT devices will not function properly on Calvin's campus network.