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The University Computing Center has decided to close the Microcomputer Purchase Program as of February 15, 1997. We are pleased to announce that the University Bookstore expects to take over as the designated campus location for the UO/Apple Computer contract agreement as of February 24, 1997. The Bookstore also sells many other products that were available through the Microcomputer Purchase Program.
The decision has not been made lightly. We are proud of the valuable services we have offered the campus community for the last twelve years. We have provided improved access to information technology, informed and unpressured sales consultation, good products tested and selected to best address the needs of UO users and ensure campus compatibility, and low prices backed by continuing high-quality support and post-sale auxiliary services.
Unfortunately, changing external factors in the marketplace have forced us to make a prudent business decision, and we recognize that we are unable to maintain the purchase program as a self-supporting enterprise. We appreciate the patronage that has been given us and the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the university.
Luckily, campus buyers have many other options for purchasing personal computer hardware and software, and some familiar services will still be available. Computing Center technicians will continue to provide microcomputer hardware installation, repair, and upgrade services. Our microcomputer consultants will still answer questions about using hardware, software, and related technologies, including network connectivity. We've tried to anticipate your concerns by providing answers to some frequently-asked questions below:
Q: If I purchase a product, will I still be able to get help?
A: We will still provide assistance for both hardware and software issues. Computing Center technicians (108 Computing Center, 346-4403) will continue to provide microcomputer hardware installation, repair, and upgrade services. Our microcomputer consultants (202A Computing Center, 346-4412) will still answer questions about using hardware, software, and related technologies, including network connectivity.
Q: Will my warranty still be valid?
A: The warranties are provided by the manufacturer, so any warranty you have, whether regular or extended, will continue to be valid until it ex | CC Homeires under the terms of its conditions.
Q: Can I place an order for products?
A: Due to the lead times involved in ordering products, we are no longer taking orders for items we do not have in stock. Sales of current inventory will continue through February 14.
Q: How do I purchase an Apple product if you don't have it in stock?
A: The University Bookstore expects to take over as the designated campus location for the UO/Apple Computer contract agreement as of February 24, 1997. They also sell many other products that were available through the Microcomputer Purchase Program. Please contact Arlyn Schaufler at the Bookstore for more information.
Q: How do I purchase a Dell product?
A: Departments can place orders directly with Dell by calling Ed Gillespie at (800) 274-7799, extension 64313. Normal purchasing rules and procedures apply. Students, faculty and staff can place personal orders by calling (800) 213-DELL. You will receive educational pricing.
Q: What if I currently have a product on order? When will it arrive? Will it arrive?
A: We are currently working to establish the status of outstanding orders. If we expect your order to arrive, we will contact you when your item(s) are available to be picked up. If we find that we will not be able to receive your order within a timely manner, we will contact you.
Q: If you have to cancel part or all of my order, do I forfeit my 20 percent deposit?
A: No. We will provide full refunds on orders canceled due to this transition.