Computers

<p>This is cross-posted on the Columbia sub-forum, since things may be set up such that Barnard students can purchase computers through Columbia’s discount plans. But then again perhaps not. So here are my questions:</p>

<p>From a current post on the Parent’s forum:</p>

<p>“Do be aware, though, that many universities are factory repair sites for the brands the U pushes. We bought a Dell for our D directly with a good coupon, and have avoided the hassle and cost of sending the machine to Dell twice now for warranty repairs. The U did it for no cost to us, and the turnaround was only a few days.”</p>

<p>Are there any particular brands/models that seem advantaged to own at Barnard? On-site or local repair for these brands? Yes you’re in NYC, which ought to help for repairs generally, but if there’s a shop within a few blocks that services particular models, maybe connected to the University, that may be better than going downtown to J&R, or whatever. (don’t know that J&R does any repairs, actually…).</p>

<p>Anyway, just wondering if any brands are kind of “hooked up” with Barnard, or if there’s otherwise any advantage to a particular brand due to what’s over there.</p>

<p>I know my daughter had some laptop problems last year, had to ship it out and was without it for two weeks. Not good for a college student.</p>

<p>Are there any recommended laptop repair shops in the area?</p>

<p>D has a Mac laptop. H is a Mac fanatic so she really had no choice. When problems went beyond what she, brother or father, or cute Columbia boys could handle she made several trips to Apple store -- kind of far away, 5th and 58th if I'm not mistaken. She wrapped sick friend in scarf. Spent one Sat. night at laptop hospital at 5th. She was freaked out w/computer problem but okay w/making trip. Apple boys did not charge her, but she found them "patronizing." Viva la differance! I insisted she take taxi home at 11 p.m. Sat. night. She insisted on reimbursement because she was perfectly happy to take subway.</p>