This is particularly important to users who cannot attend scheduled, instructor-led sessions. Providing support for individual ownership of computers is a key CSSD goal. The e-Store is provided service through an agreement with NECX and offers 30,000 computer hardware, software and peripheral products from 1,200 manufacturers. Students, faculty, staff, and departments who need computer repair services can make arrangements with DecisionOne, Inc., which operates a computer hardware repair shop at the Pittsburgh Campus. DecisionOne provides warranty repair support for Apple, Gateway, and Dell computers.
Software represents a significant part of the total cost of computer ownership.
Through various site licenses and volume discount programs, CSSD provides a wide range of software applications and utilities to students, faculty, staff, and departments. Through a new agreement with Microsoft, CSSD provides Microsoft applications and operating systems to students at no cost. Students receive all upgrades while they are enrolled at the University and may keep the software they have when they leave. In addition to Microsoft products, there are other mathematics, statistics, utility, and Internet software products which are provided free or at a greatly reduced cost. Systems analysts provide support to University departments on a contract basis for consulting and evaluation services.