FAQs

We hope that our website has given you all of the information that you need about our program. We realize, however, that you may still have questions.
This page is dedicated to those Frequently Asked Questions that we have received.

Have a question? Send it to us.

You may also call our HelpDesk at this number: (731) 989-6222
The HelpDesk is available Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm CST.

Some of our Frequently Asked Questions: (last updated 7:38am 5/05/09)

Can current iKnow Students upgrade to the new MacBook models for this year?

Yes. Current iKnow Students will have the option to upgrade to the new MacBooks and new MacBook Pros. More information can be found on the "Value" tab.

Isn't Apple technology much more expensive than typical Windows-based technology (PCs)?

The data that we've been able to find just doesn't support the Idea that Apple technology is more expensive. According to the Student Monitor Lifestyle and Media Study of 100 campuses across the country, the average amount a student spent on a computer in the fall of 2007 was $1,182. The education list price for the MacBook that is part of this program is $1,199 and FHU has negotiated a discount with Apple that we're passing on to the student. There are many other components funded by the program that are detailed on the Value tab and which in turn provide value to the student. It's also what today's students want. According to the same survey 49% of students who plan to purchase a computer in the next 12 months plan to purchase an Apple. The next closest brand was Dell with 11%. Apple is the overwhelming favorite among college students.

Are you abandoning the PC even though the overwhelming technology in the home and at the work place is that of the PC?

We're not abandoning Microsoft Windows by any means. Apple made the switch to Intel processors some time ago and can now run Windows. Our Campus Agreement with Microsoft will allow us to load both OS X and Windows Vista onto every laptop giving students the ability to run the operating system of their choice every time they boot. This also enables our students to gain valuable experience with both operating systems.

Can I run Windows on this computer?

Yes. Each MacBook that we distribute will have both Windows Vista and Mac OS X.

How many hours do I have to take to participate?

All undergraduate students who are taking 6 hours or more may participate in the program. Participation is expected of all incoming freshmen and transfer students that have graduated in or after 2008.

If I'm an upperclassman, can I participate?

All existing students can choose to be a part of the iKnow Initiative by opting into the program. The opt-in deadline is Sept. 4th, 2009. Check out the 'Value' tab for details.

It seems expensive. What do I get for $349 a semester?

The iKnow Initiative provides great value to students and parents alike. The fee covers much more than just the hardware; from accidental damage to putting the same technology into the hands of faculty and even providing resources to assist faculty in revolutionizing their teaching methods (as appropriate). And don't forget the peace of mind that comes from knowing that you will always have a good working computer made possible by the warranty, accidental damage warranty, help desk with after-hours support, virus protection, software upgrade assurance, etc. Please see the Value tab for a complete breakdown.

What if something happens to my MacBook? How will I get it fixed?

Your MacBook is covered by up to 4 years of standard and accidental damage warranty. If anything goes wrong with it you can call or stop by the HelpDesk and the problem will be addressed. Our technicians are certified by Apple to perform warranty repairs on your MacBook and they're backed up by Apple technical support. If the issue requires you to leave your MacBook behind you'll be issued a loaner MacBook to use while yours is being repaired.

How do I boot to Windows?

Every MacBook will have both Mac OS X and Windows Vista preloaded on it. When you turn the computer on you'll see a window asking you which operating system you'd like to boot (using BootPicker). Just click on your preference to boot into your preferred operating system.

Can I print to the lab printers?

Yes. Instructions can be found here. Your Print Management System balance will be available for printing from your personal computers as well as lab computers.

Is there wireless in my dorm?

Yes, all dorms will have wireless installed.

Can I access my Windows files while running OS X? (vice versa?)

Yes. The user will have the ability to access their documents from both operating systems.

If I have an iPod Touch or iPhone, or a MacBook Pro, and I don't want another one, will I pay the same semester fee?

If you already have some or all of the equipment, please stop by the Help Desk and ask to speak with the program administrator.

When will I receive my iKnow equipment (laptop and mobile device)?

Dates and a schedule will be announced by mid-summer but you can plan on receiving it roughly 1-4 days before classes begin in the fall.

What happens if a student leaves or is dismissed from the University?

If you leave before you graduate, you'll have to return the laptop or buy it out. iPhones and iPod Touches are yours to keep, however a fee will be assessed depending on how many semesters you have participated in the program.

What if the computer is damaged or stolen? Insurance? Warranty?

This answer is complex enough that you just need to read the iKnow Initiative Undergraduate Student License Agreement (it's in paragraph 8). You can find that form on the Value tab of this site.

Will there be training for those who don't know how to use a Mac?

Training opportunities will be made available for new (and existing) Mac users. Training will consist of face-to-face training sessions as well as online screen cast sessions. Participants may select the training method most appropriate for his or her needs. Each training session will be oriented toward first-time users regardless of previous experience. Schedules will be communicated to students, faculty and staff as warranted.

Why a Mac? Why not just a regular laptop?

There are several compelling reasons. Here are a few:

1) The Mac is now based on the Intel processor and therefore can run both OS/X and Microsoft Windows.
2) The cost is very competitive, especially considering number 1.
3) iLife comes on every Mac and is made up of several killer applications which would cost a great deal more to get something comparable on a PC.
4) We researched and learned that nationwide, students overwhelmingly want a Mac. Students also believe that Mac makes the best laptop (and so do we).
5) OS/X is truly a great operating system.

If I choose the iPhone, will it work with my current service plan with AT&T/Cingular?

If you choose the iPhone instead of the iPod Touch you will be responsible for activating the iPhone and managing your own contract. Activation will require a new 2 year agreement per the AT&T web site but please check with AT&T to be sure. AT&T will be on campus at the beginning of the semester to assist with all your cell phone needs.

I'm a current student. Will this program increase my tuition or fees?

For current students the program is completely optional. If you choose not to participate in the program, then your tuition and fees won't change at all other than normal increases which do not in any way fund the program.

Will my iPhone function if it hasn't been activated?

No. You must activate the iPhone in order to use its features.

Are incoming freshmen required to participate in this program? I know the Macbook is a good computer, but this adds $2,792 over the course of 8 semesters.

The iKnow Initiative does include all incoming freshmen and does result in about a 3% increase in yearly cost. We've done a great deal of work to make sure this represents a good value to the student. The "Value" tab makes a comparison between what a student will typically spend over a 4 year period and the value provided over a 4 year period under this initiative.

I am an upperclassman and am not required to participate. But, if I choose to opt-in to the program and/or to upgrade to the MacBook Pro when will I be required to pay the associated fees?

All fees will be added to your account and will be due approximately 2 weeks before the beginning of the semester.