Stanford Bookstore Computer Department: Frequently Asked Questions
by Shelley Hughes and Tom French
Who is eligible to buy computers at the Stanford Bookstore?
We sell computers to the Stanford community. Stanford students, faculty, and staff are all eligible to take advantage of our educational discounts. Visiting scholars, Continuing Studies students, and Stanford conference and camp attendees are also eligible. Of course, Medical Center staff and SLAC employees are also always welcome to buy the computers offered at the Bookstore.
Who is eligible to buy software at the Stanford Bookstore?
Most of our software is available for purchase to people who have a current Stanford ID.
What forms of payment do you accept?
Most credit cards, debit cards, AMEX, Discover, cash, or checks are accepted.
How about payment for departmental purchases?
Campus departments must use an online Standard Purchase Requisition form, which should be forwarded to Procurement. Departmental orders totaling less than $2500 (including tax) can be purchased with a Stanford Purchasing Card (VISA/MasterCard) or Rapid Purchase Order (RPO), which can be faxed (650-325-3476), or brought into the store and used like cash.
Do I get a faculty, staff, or student discount?
As a member of the Stanford community, you are welcome to buy our merchandise at our academic prices, as marked. There is no additional discount.
What brands of computers do you sell?
We offer Apple and IBM/Lenovo systems. In addition, you can order Dell computers from http://www.dell.com/stanford.
What are the benefits of buying computer hardware and software at the Stanford Bookstore?
Our prices are often academic or less; we usually have the lowest price available for Apple and Lenovo computers. The Bookstore is conveniently located, we carry a large inventory of products, we are often able to replace new units that are defective, we have in-house repair for Apple computers, and we offer frequent deals on recently discontinued merchandise. In addition, we have seasonal promotional offers, especially during the back to school and winter holiday time periods.
What kinds of accessories and peripherals do you sell?
We have an assortment of items including computer sleeves, carrying cases, iPod accessories, hard drives, surge protectors, routers, hubs, ethernet cables, video adaptors, monitors, power supplies, batteries, media, thumb drives, Web cams, microphones, headsets, ink, toner cartridges, printing paper, PDAs, cleaning supplies, and gift cards. And we usually get shipments of new items twice a day.
Can I order an Apple Computer or ThinkPad with different specifications than those listed on your price list?
Yes, please talk with any computer sales associate for a quote and delivery time estimate on your "built-to-order" computer.
If you don't have an item in your store, can you still get it for me?
We can often accommodate special orders. Please let a sales associate know what you are interested in and they will check on availability, price, and arrival time.
Do I have to purchase AppleCare at the same time that I purchase the computer?
No, you have one year from the purchase date to purchase AppleCare.
What is the advantage of purchasing AppleCare with my computer?
With AppleCare, you will be eligible for 3 years of telephone support. If one of your computer parts fails, AppleCare will cover the parts and labor costs of the repair. If you have a desktop computer (iMac, Mac Pro), Apple will visit your home or office for the repair, if necessary. AppleCare provides international coverage.
Do you ship computers?
Yes, we can ship merchandise to locations in the US. For the protection of the merchandise, all shipments are insured and usually shipped via UPS 2nd day air with signature required. Sales tax will be based on the shipping location. Please talk with a sales associate if you need a quote for shipping costs.
Can I get my iPod engraved?
Yes, we are happy to provide this service at no extra charge.
Can I return my computer?
Once you've opened it, we'd like you to keep it. If it is defective during the first 7 days of your ownership, and the defect is confirmed by the manufacturer, you can exchange your computer for a new one. We require your original receipt and box and packing materials to facilitate the exchange.
Can I return my software?
Once you've opened it, we'd like you to keep it. If it is defective within the first 30 days after your purchase, you may exchange it for the same title and platform.
Do you offer computer repairs?
Our Computer Service department is authorized to repair Apple products and they can help to facilitate some PC repairs. They can perform backups and data transfers, and they sell memory and internal hard drives for most computers. The Computer Service department is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. They can be contacted by calling (650) 329-1217, x338.
Can I buy my computer on an installment plan?
We do not offer financing. Many customers take out a computer loan from the Stanford Credit Union to finance their purchase.
How can I find out about your latest prices and inventory?
Check our Web site at http://www.stanford.edu/group/bookstore/.
When are you open?
Normal store hours are:
Monday through Thursday, 8am - 8pm
Friday, 8am - 7pm
Saturday, 9am - 6pm
Sunday, 11am - 6pm
Where are you located?
The Stanford Bookstore is on campus next to the Post Office at519 Lasuen Mall, Stanford, CA 94305.
What are your phone and fax numbers?
tel: (650) 329-1217, x456
fax: (650) 325-3476
