PENN PRINTOUT
The University of Pennsylvania's Online Computing Magazine

PENN PRINTOUT September 1993 - Volume 10:1

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Computer Connection: One stop technology shopping.

By Teresa Leo

If you're looking for a competitively priced store that sells computer equipment, software, and supplies, visit Penn's on-campus retail outlet, the Computer Connection. Located in The Book Store, the Computer Connection is owned by the University, and therefore receives educational discounts that are passed along to the University community including HUP, the Clinical Practices, and the Wistar Institute.


Products

The Computer Connection carries Apple Macintosh, IBM PS/2, and Dell computers, as well as Hewlett-Packard, Apple, and Panasonic printers. They also stock a variety of related peripherals (Macintosh and selected IBM-compatible external hard drives, removable- cartridge SyQuest drives), networking and communication supplies (Ethernet cards, modems), ergonomic products (document holders, wrist rests), and other accessories (ranging from cables to security devices). Software includes word processing, spreadsheet, graphics, drawing, and database packages from vendors like Microsoft, WordPerfect, Claris, and Aldus, to name a few. Much of the software is supported by the Computing Resource Center (CRC), located on Locust Walk, just across from The Book Store. The Computer Connection can also place special orders for software and selected hardware if you provide the manufacturer's information and phone number. Some out-of-stock items can be supplied within 24 hours from the Computer Connection's local warehouse.


Services

Services currently provided by the Computer Connection are

  • Repair service for Macintosh and IBM PS/2 computers and Apple printers
  • Free delivery to on-campus departments using a Penn purchase order
  • Software and selected hardware special orders
  • Apple printer upgrades
  • Macintosh and IBM PS/2 computer processor upgrades
  • Toner cartridge recycling program
  • Fall Truckload Sale (annual sale of selected computers at discount prices)
The Computer Connection also provides pre-sale advice, but they do not provide general consulting services or extensive demonstrations of hardware and software. However, the CRC offers the Penn community additional technically oriented advice on hardware options; technical support for selected software and hardware; and seminars, tutorials, and hands-on instruction for selected software. To make the most informed decisions about hardware and software purchases, you can consult with the CRC, your School, or your department, or read the product literature available at the Computer Connection.


Requirements

All University faculty, full-time staff, and students enrolled in a course of study leading to a degree or certificate may purchase hardware and software at the Computer Connection. When purchasing, you must present a valid Penn ID, a requirement set by vendors in return for the educational discounts they offer.

Eligible members of the Penn community may purchase one notebook and one desktop machine from Apple, Dell, and IBM per year; one Apple laser and one non-laser printer per year; and one of each model of Hewlett-Packard printer during their affiliation with Penn.


Information

Computer Connection hours are Monday through Thursday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM; Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM; and Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM. Because of daily inventory, hardware and software sales must be completed 30 minutes before closing. Current prices for the Computer Connection are posted on PennInfo under Computing/Computer Connection.

For additional information, contact the Computer Connection at 898-3282 or the CRC at 898-9085.

TERESA LEO is a Technical Writer for the ISC Communications Group.