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Category: Buying

Gift ideas, big and small, on K-State technology wishlists

IT staff have a wide range of items on their wishlists, from fun and entertaining technology to a Cessna Citation jet with new-tech features. If you’re still searching for that special gift, these ideas may help.

This list was compiled from K-State IT staff who answered the question “What tech gifts would you like to receive or give this holiday season?”

  • HEXBUG Aquabot with Fishbowl ($14.99). K-State staff said: “When adults get fascinated by a cute little 3-inch fish swimming around in its own bowl with real water (it’s water-activated), just imagine how much kids will love it. I even want one.”
  • Fitbit health/activity trackers (from $59.95).  From the website: “…products and experiences that fit seamlessly into your life so you can achieve your health and fitness goals.”
  • Sentry Turret USB Desk Defender ($29.99). From the website: “Strike fear into the hearts of your enemies (or coworkers) with your very own Turret Desk Defender, powered by USB. When it detects movement, the wings open and it will announce the acquisition of a target…”

Continue reading “Gift ideas, big and small, on K-State technology wishlists”

Summer sales on Dell computers

Summer is an opportune time for K-Staters who are planning to buy a computer or other technology. Summer sales and “back to school” specials abound and often include discounts or rebates on computer accessories and equipment. For example, check out these Dell sales:

  1. Hats off to major milestones. Buy a Dell and get a $200 ePromo Gift Card (PDF). This is an exclusive offer for students and/or parents of students.
  2. Buy an XPS 10 tablet for $293.99 after $156 savings (PDF)

Continue reading “Summer sales on Dell computers”

Computer-bundle sales start June 3 at Union Computer Store

K-State students and faculty/staff who are thinking of buying a computer should check out the Union Computer Store’s bundled computer sales that start Monday, June 3, and continue through the summer. “Bundled” means when a Windows or Mac computer is purchased through the store, additional price-savings are available on select accessories such as USB flash drives and printers.  Continue reading “Computer-bundle sales start June 3 at Union Computer Store”

“Quick Guide to Windows 8” gives overview, tips, and shortcuts

A Quick Guide to Windows 8 (PDF) is now available online for those who have new Windows 8 computers, want to get a fast start, or are simply interested in the new OS from Microsoft. The one-page guide covers the Start Screen tiles, the Charms bar, keyboard shortcuts, and resources.

For more details about Windows 8, see the article “Getting Familiar With Windows 8” in IT News.

iPad buyers get incentives during March Madness at computer store

Eight variations of iPads are available during the Union Computer Store’s “March Madness Buy an iPad” sale March 11-30 that features:

  • Buy an iPad and get a free stylus and free earbuds ($20-$25 estimated savings)
  • 15 percent off iPad accessories purchased at the same time (excluding Apple-branded accessories)

An educational ID is required, and the sale is not valid with any other offers.  Continue reading “iPad buyers get incentives during March Madness at computer store”

Smart watches: Upcoming trend or dying fad?

Ever since James Bond demonstrated his high-tech multi-use watch specially made for him, kids and adults have dreamed of such a powerful device that could be disguised as a wrist watch. This dream device is sadly not yet a reality, but there are many companies who have attempted to manufacture different forms of “Smart Watches”.  Continue reading “Smart watches: Upcoming trend or dying fad?”

Clearance sale on Dell laptops, iPad covers, Beats headphones, and more

The Union Computer Store is running a clearance sale that includes:

  • Beats high-performance headphones (Beats Pro, Beats Solo, Beats Studio)
  • Bluetooth keyboards
  • Dell Inspiron laptops (clearance prices range from $499 to $899)
  • iPad covers in a variety of colors and styles
  • Miscellany items on the clearance table

Continue reading “Clearance sale on Dell laptops, iPad covers, Beats headphones, and more”

Crestron rep to share A+ Partner Programs info Dec. 11

Alan Hanssen from Crestron will be on the K-State Manhattan campus 3 p.m. Dec. 11 in Hale 401 to share updated information on the A+ Partner Program. This is open to K-State IT staff who support the Crestron products.

Crestron classroom control systems are used in K-State university technology classrooms, departmental classrooms, and conference rooms. The A+ Partner Program was established to provide support for the academic community.

Questions can be emailed to Kevin Shippy, kshippy@k-state.edu.

Dec. 11 demo: Panasonic projector with new Digital Link technology

Senna Technology Systems, a Panasonic and local technology dealer, and a representative from Panasonic will be showing IT and system administrators a new Panasonic projector featuring the new Digital Link technology. The presentation is scheduled 1:30 – 2:45 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 11,  in Hale 401. All system admins and IT staff are invited to attend, but all faculty/staff are welcome.

Panasonic will also have a 65-inch interactive display with them as well that can be used for digital signage or as an interactive classroom display.

Questions can be emailed to Kevin Shippy, kshippy@k-state.edu.

 

Windows RT: Is it right for me?

The Windows RT operating system came out in October, at the same time as Windows 8.  Windows RT:

  • Is a slightly different version of Windows 8
  • Is designed for portable  devices (typically tablet computers) that are using an ARM processor
  • Cannot be purchased alone, but comes pre-installed on select devices

Continue reading “Windows RT: Is it right for me?”