The University of Maryland has announced ACT — Academic Computers for Terps. Through the new ACT program, registered students, faculty, and staff can purchase pre-configured Apple and Dell computers with substantial benefits in price, technical support, and warranty protection.

Here are just a few of the perks of ordering a computer through ACT:

• Computers arrive ready for use on the university networks (both wired and wireless) with university software programs pre-installed, including antivirus software (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.
• Computers come with a full four years of vendor phone support and warranty protection. In addition, software consulting and hardware warranty repair by vendor-certified technicians are provided for machines purchased through ACT at the OIT Help Desks.
• Loaner computers are available if repairs require the ACT computer to remain at the repair shop overnight.
• Need-based assistance is available for student computer purchases.

“Four configurations, including laptops and desktops, from each vendor have been chosen as recommended computers,” said Pamela Burton, OIT Director of User Support Services and ACT coordinator. “They are all high-end, state-of-the-art offerings that should meet computing needs today and for years to come. From Apple, university constituents can choose from two MacBook models, MacBook Pro, or iMac. From Dell, ACT participants can pick from two Latitude laptops and two models from the Optiplex family of desktop computers,” Burton said.

“The ACT program will be a boon for the university community and, in particular, for students,” said Dr. Jeffrey Huskamp, Vice President and Chief Information Officer. “The ability to purchase state-of-the-art, campus-ready personal computers at attractive prices with campus service and support will enable more extensive adoption of computers into the learning process.”

You can purchase an ACT computer directly from the vendors through the program’s dedicated Web site at www.act.umd.edu. You will need to enter your verified Directory ID and password to gain access to the ordering page.

The OIT Help Desks are available Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. to answer questions and provide technical support. The Student Help Desk number is 301.405.1400. The Faculty/Staff Help Desk number is 301.405.1500.