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What computers are available?
Machines from each vendor - laptops and desktops - have been chosen as recommended computers. They are all state of the art offerings that will meet your computing needs today and for years to come. From Apple, choose a MacBook, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, iMac or Mac Pro. From Dell, pick a Latitude laptop or an Optiplex desktop machine.
Can I purchase other Apple or Dell computers under the ACT program?
The models offered under ACT were chosen to represent great value and performance. At this time, they are the only computers and configurations available under the program. As a registered student or member of the University of Maryland's faculty or staff, you also have the option to purchase non-bundle systems and accessories from each vendor's ACT web site and get discounts on all products offered there at the vendor's standard educational prices. Such items, however, are not eligible for ACT's extended warranty coverage.
What software is bundled in the Maryland image?
Here is a list of bundled software which is included with computers purchased through this program. (Note: For the Macintosh, ACT supplied software titles install via the customization image/CD available through the OIT Help Desk and the Terrapin Technology Store.)
Vendors offer additional deals like free mp3 players, printers, etc.; are these deals also included with an ACT machine?
Vendors may not honor multiple promotions on a single purchase, so an ACT machine purchase may not be not eligible for the rebates or other incentives.
How long is the ACT program in effect?
The Academic Computers for Terps Program was announced on July 13, 2006 and was available for the entire 2006-2007 academic year. Both Dell and Apple have agreed to extend the ACT program for the 2009-2010 academic year.
How do I order the machine?
Purchase your machine directly from the vendor through our dedicated web site at http://act.umd.edu. 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!
How long will it take to have my computer delivered?
Delivery times are dependent on a number of factors such as the availability of components and/or models, vendors' manufacturing schedules, delivery distance from a warehouse or manufacturing plant, etc. We strongly recommend that you look for the estimated shipping date before making a purchase choice so you know when to expect your computer delivery.
Can I use my student account to purchase the machine?
Purchases are made directly from the vendor who will require a credit card for payment.
Do I have to pay sales tax on my ACT purchase?
Vendors are required to collect sales taxes based on the laws of the state to which the purchase is shipped.
Can I get a printer or other peripherals?
You may order additional items from the vendor for an additional price.
I see all ACT machine purchases come with four year warranties. Do these warranties cover any and all problems?
Apple, Inc, and Dell Computer, Inc. have different coverage terms for ACT purchases, Click below to download a pdf document which explains each vendor's coverage details and limitations:
Warranties on printers are typically for a period of 12 months and are provided by the printer manufacturer. OIT does not provide warranty service on printers. All warranty issues should be addressed directly with the printer manufacturer.
AppleCare does not cover repairs resulting from accidental spillage, dropping the computer, etc. Is such protection available?
You can obtain extended coverage and protection for your ACT Macintosh purchase through Safeware, Inc.
How do I get warranty service?
ACT program computers are protected by four years of vendor phone support and warranty protection. In addition, the OIT Help Desks (student and faculty/staff) will provide services such as software support and on-campus hardware warranty repair for machines purchased through the plan.
OIT offers warranty repairs via campus drop-off by vendor-certified technicians, for quick turnaround. The OIT Warranty Desk is located in the OIT Help Desk in the Computer and Space Sciences building and is open Monday through Friday from 8AM to 4:30PM. You can contact the Warranty Desk via the Help Desk phone numbers found at the end of this FAQ page.
Loaner computers are available if repairs require the ACT computer to remain at the repair shop overnight. We will make every effort to provide a loaner from the same vendor as your dropoff, but we cannot guarantee an identical model computer.
If you are unable to get to the OIT Warranty Desk, you can also obtain warranty assistance directly from the vendor. For warranty help with a Macintosh, contact Apple Education Support at 800.800.2275 between 9AM and 9PM Eastern time. For warranty help with a Dell computer, contact Dell Technical Support at 800.624.9896 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week).
If I need warranty service due to a crashed hard drive, will OIT recover my data from the bad drive?
Data recovery from a damaged or crashed hard drive often requires specialized equipment and dedicated clean rooms. As a result, OIT cannot perform recovery of any of the drive's data.
OIT strongly recommends that all computer users establish and follow a regular backup regimen. For users of the latest operating systems, the OS vendors offer details regarding how this can be done. See Apple's and Microsoft's recommendations.
Can OIT repair the computer I purchased elsewhere?
Sorry, OIT will provide warranty work only on systems purchased through the ACT program.
Where can I get other questions about ACT answered?
You can ask your questions at either the OIT Student Help Desk (301.405.1400) or the OIT Faculty/Staff Help Desk (301.405.1500). If you prefer to submit a question electronically, email askACT@umd.edu.
