Technology for Student Success
PNW is here for everyone!
Whether new to campus or a returning student, the following information can help throughout you/their academic journey.
Technology Recommendations
Technology needs will vary depending on the types of classes taken at PNW. PNW has computer labs available for student use, a laptop loaner program, and offers recommendations if wanting to purchase a device.
For any technology related questions, reach out to the Customer Service Center (CSC).
Contact the CSC
Computer labs are available for students to access and can also contain specific software required for certain courses. Check out the website for more details.
The PNW Library provides a loaner laptop program. Connect with the Library staff to secure a loaner laptop today. Please note there are limited devices available.
Computer Hardware Specifications
The following is recommended for new computer purchases. Please note, Chromebooks are not compatible with all PNW software.
- Processor: Quad-Core x86-64 CPU
- Memory: 16GB or more of RAM
- Storage: 256 GB (or larger) SSD hard drive
- Display: 13” or larger display with 1920 x 1080 pixels or higher resolution.
- Wired Internet: Ethernet port or USB Ethernet adapter
- Wireless Internet: 802.11ac Wireless Card
PNW Discounts
Many computer vendors, including Apple, Dell, and HP offer discounts to PNW students, faculty, staff. Check out the resource below.
On campus Access
WiFi services are available across PNW campuses.
PNW Discounts
AT & T offers discounts for qualified voice and data plans for PNW students, faculty, staff. Check out the resource below.
Affordable Connectivity Program
The Affordable Connectivity Program provides eligible households with up to a $30 discount off their monthly internet bill or a $75/month discount on Tribal lands. It also provides one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet purchased through a participating provider when the eligible household contributes at least $10 but less than $50 toward the purchase.
If you’ve received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year, participate in a number of assistance programs (such as SNAP, Veteran’s Pension, Free/Reduced-Price School Lunch, or SSI), participate in Tribal specific programs (such as Tribal TANF or Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance), or meet other eligibility criteria for existing low-income internet programs, you may be eligible for this program!
Enroll in 2 steps
- Go to affordableconnectivity.gov to submit an application or print a mail-in application.
- Contact you/their preferred participating provider to select an eligible plan and have the discount applied to your/their bill.
Software
You/they may be asked to leverage many different types of software during your time at PNW as a student during class time. Many software titles are available to you/them free of charge or at a major discount through the IT at Purdue community software hub.
Instructors may use Zoom, a digital conferencing tool, for office hours, to host a virtual class, or connect during inclement weather. This link is oftentimes shared via the syllabus and in Brightspace. Zoom can run within a web browser but also offers a local client.
Students can purchase Adobe CC at a discounted rate through the Purdue Software Portal.
IBM’s SPSS is used in data collection and statistical analysis and reporting in the social sciences, business and other fields that make use of big data, predictive modeling and data mining for purposes such as identifying trends and producing accurate forecasts.