View Student Technology Enhancement Program (STEP) details (pdf format)

What kind of laptop should I buy?

My answer: One that suits the specs designated by the University. You can find the spec sheet under Purchasing a Laptop. It's good to have a laptop that has 2 GB of memory or more. One that also has a good video/audio card, a wide screen, and if you're planning to carry it around campus, something thin and light. I know it can burdensome to carry a heavy computer around. If our recommended models do not suit your needs, please, use our spec sheet to determine the right laptop for you.

Are there certain programs I need to have on my laptop?

My answer: The programs I’d suggest you have on your laptops would be Microsoft Office, that includes: Microsoft Access, Word, Excel, Publisher, FrontPage, and PowerPoint. These will be essential for you. I know they’ve been for me! You should also have Adobe Acrobat (latest version), RealPlayer, Windows Media Player, Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox. Some programs are compatible with both browsers, but I’d have them both just in case. I’d also have McAfee (anti-virus software). You can download McAfee from under Free Downloads, this is the only version of McAfee that will work with CCA. (Otherwise, you can't connect to our network!)

How can I purchase a laptop through the university?  

My answer: Through our affiliated websites. Just go to Purchasing a Laptop for more information.

Which computer manufacturer should I go with? 

My answer: Lock Haven is partnered with Mac and IBM (Lenovo) on the laptop initiative.

What’s the recommended operating system to have on my machine? 

My answer: Lock Haven supports three operating systems: Windows XP, Windows Vista, and MACOSX. In Robinson 508 there's a MAC repair technician.

If I don’t already have the computer skills will I be expected to know them or will I learn them? 

My answer: In most cases you’re going to be expected to know what you’re doing. There are courses that you can take to learn some of those skills. Introduction to Computers would be a good one. Here’s a good website if you want to look over some quick tutorials as well http://www.atomiclearning.com/freetrial.

I’d recommend the tutorials because they’re cheaper and faster to access!

Does the University have programs that I can download on my machine for free? 

My answer: Yes, the University has free downloads for you to get online click here

Is it cheaper to buy through the University? 

My answer: We recommend certain models that may be cheaper, but they may not be. We are partnered exclusively with Lenovo and Mac. It's a better option to purchase through us, but we have a spec sheet in case you've decided not to purchase through the University.

Where can I purchase the recommended software if I don’t have it?

My answer: At the Bookstore on campus, or can you can purchase it online.

Does a warranty come with my laptop?

My answer: Yes – Depending on the model you purchase from our recommended list, they come with a 1 – 3 year warranty.  The laptops with the 3 year warranty also come with Lenovo’s Thinkpad Protection. We will update with Macintosh warranties, when we receive more information. If you do not have a recommended model, please, purchase the warranty they offer at time of sale!

What about insurance?

My answer: I'd recommend buying renter's insurance or see if it's covered under your homeowner's insurance. Also, if that doesn't suit you, buy an insurance policy from the manufacturer of your computer.

What if I can't afford a laptop?

My answer: The university has 10 laptops available as loaner laptops. Depending on if your eligible or not you'll receive one to use for the year. You need to fill out the STEP Initiative Computer Request Form if you're interested in this program.

How can I connect to Lock Haven University technology resources from off campus?

My answer: A letter sent out from Admissions had instructions for setting up a proxy server on your computer. Just follow those instructions to install, and you should then have access to restricted internet and library resources on your laptop. If you have further questions, contact Admissions.

How was the STEP Initiative originally conceived and by whom?

My answer: Details can be found in the orginal Task Force Report, click here for more details.