Choosing a computer system (Desktop or Laptop) (Windows or Apple)

Desktop Computers

Desktop computers are typically more cost effective and should be your computer of choice unless you have special needs as described in the "Laptop" section.

You should select a desktop if:

• You work at your computer for many hours at a time and prefer the ergonomic advantages of a larger screen and full-sized keyboard.
• You work in an open area where You feel a laptop would be a greater security risk .
• You want to get the most performance for the money.

Laptop Computers

You may select a laptop if:

• Your job requires you to move your computer from office to home regularly.
• You use technology in the classroom.
• You want the option of having your teaching materials on a computer and want to take them right from your desk to the classroom.
• You like the mobility of taking your computer to conferences or research sites.

Windows Computers

You should select a Windows computer if:

• The primary software you use is Microsoft Office, Outlook, Financial 2000 and Reflection.
• You exchange documents with other Windows users.
• Your job responsibilities require you to use Windows.
• A software application critical to perform your job responsibilities is only available on Windows computers.
• You need to copy your E-mail and Calendar to your personal digital assistant (PDA) from your desktop/laptop computer.

Apple Computers

You should select an Apple computer if:

• You exchange documents with other Macintosh users.
• Your job assignment requires you to use a Macintosh.
• A software application critical to perform your job responsibilities is only available on Apple computers.