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The University of Maryland's ACT - Academic Computers for Terps - program allows registered students, faculty, and staff to purchase customized Apple and Dell computers at prices below standard discounts, as well as receive substantial added benefits in technical support and warranty protection.
What computers are available?
Machines from each vendor - laptops and desktops - have been chosen as recommended computers. They are all high-end, state of the art offerings that will meet your computing needs today and for years to come. From Apple, choose a MacBook, MacBook Pro, iMac or Mac Pro. From Dell, pick a Latitude laptop or an Optiplex desktop machine.
What does "customized" mean?
Coming to campus at the beginning of each year, especially for freshmen (and their parents), can be a complex and confusing time. We want to make using technology as easy as possible. We've worked with the ACT vendors to assemble hardware and software packages that are truly plug and play.
Your Dell ACT purchase will be delivered to you set up for use in the dorms and over the University of Maryland's wireless network. It will also be equipped with a number of software applications, including McAfee antivirus (pre-configured to automatically update for continual intrusion identification), virtual private network software for encrypted, secure connectivity and a variety of other utilities and applications.
Your Apple ACT machine is delivered with a standard install of Apple's Mac OS X operating system. Customizing it for use on campus is a simple install of a file available free via download or on a CD available from the OIT Help Desk and the Terrapin Technology Store. An easy double-click and your Mac is configured and ready to go.
The ACT staff is also working with the Information Technology specialists in university colleges and departments to configure the machines to meet their specific information needs.
What are the added benefits?
Purchase an ACT computer and get four years of vendor phone support and warranty protection. Combine this with the local support provided by the OIT Help Desks and that's peace of mind! And ACT goes further...buy an ACT computer and any necessary warranty repairs are performed by vendor certified technicians. Furthermore, if your ACT computer requires overnight repairs, you get a loaner machine. All these extras are included with the purchase of your computer!
How do I get my computer?
Purchase your machine directly from Apple or Dell through this dedicated web site. You'll need to know your Directory ID and password to gain access to the vendor's ordering page. Place your order and your purchase will be delivered directly from the vendor to the shipping address you provide. Then, bring it to campus, plug it in or access the wireless network and you're online and on your way!
Where do I go with questions about ACT?
We've compiled a list of frequently asked questions about the program, along with the answers.
Academic Computers for Terps - ACT is here!
