Carnegie Mellon University - Computers

Quick Stats

College Prowler Take

Yes, the wireless Ethernet network is great, but it shouldn’t overshadow the sheer volume of computers and computer supplies around campus. With so many computers, it’s no surprise that students rarely have a problem finding an open computer in a cluster. Many classes utilize the Blackboard Web site to post homework assignments, announcements, and grades. For some courses, students may have to check this site almost every day. The constant need to check your e-mail is another endearingly nerdy characteristic about CMU, and some students will start to get antsy if they can’t access their accounts. There’s a good reason for this, however, since professors will often e-mail students with news about class.

The campus is so computer-focused that it can be a little overbearing for the mouse-wielding novice, but eventually, every student gets up to speed. A new computer is recommended but not completely necessary. Technology becomes outdated even faster at CMU then it does in the real world. For students excited by the wireless network, a good laptop can be indispensable. When selecting a wireless card, however, make sure to buy the University-recommended card; it’ll make getting on the campus network a lot easier. Computers are more than just machines at CMU—they’re a way of life.
 

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Students Speak Out

CMUmk says: Carnegie Mellon University 2016 Undecided

You should definitely bring your... You should definitely bring your own computer simply because its so convenient, but there are plenty of computers available around campus. In almost every building, there is at least one computer cluster and never a lack of open computers. 12345 Computers: March 01, 2009 Report

CMUSP says: Carnegie Mellon University 2017 Architecture and Planning

Having your own laptop is... Having your own laptop is definitely worthwhile. Even though there are plenty of clusters, they can be rather crowded at certain times. 12345 Computers: March 01, 2009 Report

CMUCM says: Carnegie Mellon University 2016 Psychology

CMU is known for its excellence in... CMU is known for its excellence in the field of computer science, and so the technology is usually first rate. Almost everybody brings their own laptop. I do not know how I could function without one. 12345 Computers: March 01, 2009 Report

CMUMS says: Carnegie Mellon University 2016 Engineering

Carnegie Mellon is a school with a... Carnegie Mellon is a school with a great focus on technology. It's convenient if you have your own personal computer, but with a 2-to-1 University computer-to-student ratio, you can always find an available computer somewhere. There are a bunch of public clusters scattered around campus, most of them open 24 hours. The Wi-Fi covers nearly all of the University and has a very strong and quick connection most places. It's always nice to have your own computer, but it is definitely not necessary. 12345 Computers: March 01, 2009 Report

CMUJS says: Carnegie Mellon University 2016 Business

The computers are sweet, and the... The computers are sweet, and the network is great. The labs are rarely crowded, but most students bring their own computers. Technology is definitely Carnegie Mellon's strong suit. 12345 Computers: March 01, 2009 Report

Facts

Did You Know?

All active students, faculty, and staff with a valid CMU ID card are granted a printing quota of $40 per semester.
 

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