How to Use this Site

Now that I have begun to make some progress with this site I thought it would be a good idea to write a brief guide on some of the different features that you can see around the pages. I will first describe the left frame, then the right frame, and then the central area of the page. After that I am going to detail some of the changes to look out for in the future.


Left Frame

1. Google Ads - When people read webpages they tend to ignore the google sponsored links. In my own experience though these can prove to be some of the most useful content that can be found on a website. The reason for this is that google uses an algorithm to determine content similar to that found on a page, and then uses this information to determine other relevant webpages with similar content. If, for example, you browse the "What to Take to University" section and choose the "Computer" page you will find links to companies that sell laptops similar to those I am describing. Clicking on these you may be able to find a good deal or other articles with different information. So, definitely don't ignore the google links - they are there for a reason!

2. Bookmarks and Feeds - These are perhaps some of the most overlooked features of a website. Bookmarks are a way of sharing pages that you like with other people. A lot of these require you to create a profile (username and password) from which you can then make recommendations. If you sign up to these you will also be able to see others recommendations, which makes browsing the web much more fun because you can find interesting pages suggested by others all the time. Subscribing as a reader means that you will receive updates when changes are made to the site, seeing as a lot of information is currently being added this is recommended.

3. Subscribe via E-mail - If you choose to subscribe by e-mail then if I write a new post for the site you will receive an e-mail in your mailbox (max. 1 per day) telling you about the new content.

4. Blog Archive - Here you can see all of my previous articles listed in chronological order and sorter by month and year. This is for when you want to follow the sites progression rather than using the custom built navigation bar.

Right Frame

1. Google Search - If you want to either search my website for specific content (say you want to find an article quickly about laptops) or search the entire web for content then you can use the Google Search tool in the upper right corner. To search my site select "university-source", for the internet choose "web". This will open a new window or tab with the results of the search. This service is provided by Google.

2. Description - A short synopsis of the purpose, goals and content of the site.

3. Navigation - In the navigation toolbar you will find links to the different pages of this website. The pages have been separated by content. Whenever a new article is written a link to it shall be added here. This is the best way to find your way around the site.

4. Amazon Links - At the moment these links are a placeholder for future content (see the "Future Content" section later in this article to find out what might go in it's place). However, like the Google Ads these provide content specific recommendations based on keywords found within my site. Keep an eye out for anything that interests you.

5. Poll - Vote in these polls to decide the way in which the site will evolve. Choose which articles you want to see the most to shape the order that I write in.

Central Page

1. Articles - In the central page you will find a list of the most recent articles that I have written. Scrolling down the page you can read the newest content.

2. Digg It - If you like the article and want to recommend it to others then press the Digg it button!

3. Google Ads - Some of the google sponsored links are at times irrelevant, so to improve the chances of their being more interesting content to link you to there are google ads displayed underneath the articles as well.

4. Comments - Please leave me comments! This is a great way for me to know whether you like the article, what changes you think can be made, and offer my suggestions of things to add. I will always try to respond to comments, and its very simple to leave one. On the homepage simply click the "0 comments" button and it will take you to a page where you can write your comment, and on an articles page press "Post a Comment".

Future Content

1. A section for what to do before you turn up at the university.
2. More articles on what to take and what to do on your first day.
3. An amazon "aStore" where you can browse all of my recommendations on what to take to university at the same time and add them easily to your shopping basket or save for later.
4. And much much more...


While this has been a long description I hope you have taken the time to read it and now have a better understanding of the site! Thank you for showing an interest and keep an eye out for future content updates.

Gaming Laptops for University

This article continues from What Computer to Take to University for Students.


About Gaming Laptops

Gaming laptops are the most powerful laptops available. These are designed for people who want to get the most out of their computer, and these machines rival some of the best desktop computers. By buying one of these you will have the capacity to play the newest, most power hungry games as well as having excellent media capabilities and many other incredible features. These machines turn heads, with their sleek looks and glowing lights you will be the envy of your fellow students. While this is all well and good, there are a couple of points to consider. These computers are not cheap, for the best technical specifications you will be paying over two thousand pounds. Also, they are not as portable as other laptops; with their large size (because of their bigger screens) and increased weight (because of everything that is packed in to them) you will need a strong back to carry these around. However, for people with the money and the need for power these computers are perfect for you, and should easily last you through university and beyond.


Which Gaming Laptop?

Two laptops stand out in this category, the Dell XPS M1710 and Alienware Aurora m9700. While I do own one of these computers, I feel that instead of giving a detailed description of one and making a half-hearted attempt at the other I would instead link you to some comprehensive online articles. You can read reviews of both these machines on laptopmag.com:

Dell XPS M1710 Review
Alienware Aurora m9700 Review


Where Can I Buy These Laptops?

If after reading either of these reviews you decide that one of these laptops is for you, you can follow these links to access the pages where you can begin customising your computers. As both Dell and Alienware are only available online or via the phone, it is easiest to make your purchase over the internet. Follow these links to make a purchase :

Buy Dell XPS M1710
Buy Alienware Aurora m9700

At this stage you will need to begin customising your computer. Both Dell and Alienware have an online support system, where you can speak to experts who will help you shape your order to your own needs. On the Dell link above in the top right hand corner you will see a button you can click called "Live Chat". Select this option, fill in your name and make your question "Customising Dell XPS M1710". Following the Alienware link above, on the right hand side of your screen you will see a toolbar displaying "Your Total". In this toolbar click the "Chat with Sales Support" link and they will help you to build your perfect machine.


I expect to add one or two other gaming laptops that I have heard very good things about to this section at a later date. If you have any recommendations of your own then leave me a comment!


The article which follows this will be on Multimedia Laptops, a cheaper option which still includes a lot of the great features. Check back for updates!

What Computer to Take to University for Students

As a student, your biggest initial expense before even turning up at university will probably be investing in a computer. Seeing as there are so many available, it is worth considering carefully your options before making a decision. You should ask yourself these questions before you start:

• Do I want a desktop or a laptop (notebook)?

• How much money do I have available to spend?

• What do I want it for? Making notes, watching movies or playing games?

• Do I want to get one already made or custom built?

• Should I buy one over the internet or go out to the shops to buy one?

If you make a note of your answer to all of these questions then as we go through and I describe the different options available you can compare them to your own preferences.

The first thing to consider when buying a computer for university is whether you want a laptop or a desktop computer. My personal recommendation would be to go down the laptop route. Although more expensive than the equivalent desktop counterpart, the benefit of owning a laptop is that you can use it anywhere, so if you have a couple of hours free that you want to spend in the library you can take your computer with you. From my own experience, over 95% of students I have met own laptops. Further, nowadays laptops are built to rival many desktop computers, and by buying a docking station and external mouse and keyboard you can effectively turn your laptop into a desktop computer in your room, and still enjoy its portability. In this section I will suggest only laptop computers, but if there is sufficient demand in the future a desktop category may be added.

We shall separate computers in to three categories:

• Gaming

• Multimedia

• Basic

You should read the description under each section before deciding which type is for you.

First Day at University: Moving In

This article continues from First Day at University: When you Arrive.


Exploring your Room

So, you have made it to the university and have picked up your keys. Now the next thing to do is to "move in". Go and explore your room first and try to remember the way there - soon you could be carrying heavy boxes and don't want to get lost en-route! In your room you will probably find some sort of starter pack with your terms of use policy and other information like what to do during a fire alarm. I will come back to this later. For now you should start moving your belongings in (for more information see my What to Take guide).

If you have been driven up then if you haven't been able to get a parking space nearby it might be a good idea to move the car to the entrance, quickly unload everything and wait with it by the door while the car is reparked. Whatever you do, don't leave your belongings alone to move them to your room because thieves are opportunists and know that things get left around during moving in day. If you are travelling alone then obviously this isn't possible, but try to find someone like a student helper to give you a hand.

Moving in your Belongings

Once you have moved all of your stuff to your room then you should do one thing before you start unpacking. In your welcome pack you will probably have been given some sort of inventory. This will tell you everything that is meant to be found in your room (e.g. bed, lamp, desk and so on) and will ask you to make sure that everything is in good working order. So, check around and make sure that you are satisfied that everything works (if a light bulb is blown for example write it down). When that is complete I would advise doing one of two things: go food shopping or start unpacking.

Shopping and Unpacking

If you followed my suggestion in the previous article and arrived early then I would recommend doing the food shopping first. The reason is that if there are only one or two supermarkets close then later in the day they will be absolutely packed with people. I had to queue for about 40 minutes to pay, and also found that some of the things I wanted simply weren't there because others had taken them. If you are with your parents then it is a good idea to buy in bulk and try to get them to pay for it (even if they won't at least you will have the car to transport it). Remember though that you aren't going to make friends with the people you share the kitchen with if you fill the fridge and freezer before they arrive. Try instead to stock up on non-perishable goods you can store in your room.

By the time you get back with the food you might find other people have started to arrive. Put your shopping away and keep an eye out for anyone else moving in to your corridor or flat. If you meet anyone then introduce yourself and, if your parents are around introduce them too. Offer to give them a hand moving their own belongings in (it's a good way to get off on a positive footing with someone). Once this is all said and done I suggest sorting out your room, but first put a couple of beers/bottle of wine on ice for later. I don't think I need to offer unpacking advice except to simply say that while you are at it you may as well put it away tidily and do it all, because if not you will probably find yourself with boxes still left around your room in a few weeks time.

Saying Goodbye to your Parents

Once you have done your unpacking it's time to say goodbye to your parents. I have been asked by a lot of people I know who are beginning university next year at what time their parents should leave, and have answered the same way each time: as soon as possible. You are going to have to do it sooner or later. Don't be afraid to cry, your mum probably will! You are in a new place and know nobody so it can be a terrifying prospect. Believe me when I say though that within a few hours you will probably have left all these thoughts behind you and will be having a great time.


Now that this is all sorted out, it's time to meet your flatmates. Look out for this article soon!

Back to Your First Day at University

Detailed Explanation of Documentation

This article continues from What to Take to University: Documentation.

General

Accommodation Documentation

Take along your contract and confirmation of your accommodation agreement so you can display it if required.

Driving License

If you are taking a car with you then you will need your driving license. Even if you aren't it is still good for I.D.

Insurance Information

A lot of student rooms have insurance of around 3000 pounds to cover any theft or damage to your items. If you need to extend your insurance to include something like an expensive laptop, or if you think the items in your room are worth more than 3000 pounds, then you should take out extended insurance. You should find out whether your parent’s home insurance covers your university room first. Take any details of this along with you in case you need to make a claim.

National Insurance Card/Number

If you want to work then you will need your national insurance number.

Passport

If you decide to go travelling with your new friends during the year, or if you do not have a driving license for ID, then you will need to have your passport with you.

Passport Photos

My university required me to hand over a couple of passport sized photos for things like Student Cards and for the accommodation department. Take a couple along (5 or so) in case you need some at the start of term.

Student Finance Documentation

If you are receiving a student loan then your university will require you to provide your "Financial Notification" form from your LEA.

TV License

To use a television at university you will have to have a TV license, otherwise you can face some pretty hefty fines.

University Unconditional Offer

When you have received your grades the university should send you an unconditional offer letter. Make sure to take this along.

Banking

Bank/Building Society Details

If you ever need to pay for anything online/by direct debit then you will probably be asked for your bank/building society details. These sorts of things are sort code, account number etc. If you need any more information on this leave a comment.

Cheque Book

It's sometimes easier to pay for things by cheque than by cash (for example when you can't get to a bank). In these circumstances you will need your cheque book.

Debit Card

Don't need to say much about this. If you want to get money out from a cash machine or pay for your groceries without cash then you will need your debit card.

Paying-In Book

For if you are in the fortunate position of having received cash.


Look out for future articles about which bank to choose for students.

What to Take to University: Documentation

Before you arrive at university you will receive a great deal of paper work and other documents. It's very difficult to remember what you have been sent and to decide what is important to take with you. The aim of this section is to give you a list that should hopefully include everything you should need. You should check that you do not need to take anything specific along for your university. Obviously this time we shall just provide a list and explanations.


Quicklist:

General
Accommodation Documentation
Driving License
Insurance Information
National Insurance Card/Number
NHS Medical Card
Passport
Passport Photos
Student Finance Documentation
TV License
University Unconditional Offer

Banking
Bank/Building Society Details
Cheque Book
Debit Card
Paying-In Book


Next: Detailed Explanation of Documentation

First Day at University: When you Arrive

What Time to Arrive

The very first question you should be asking yourself is: when are you are going to turn up at university? Some universities may have a staggered arrival procedure, where students with surnames between certain ranges arrive at different times or on different days. If this applies to you (and you should find out if it does) then this question isn't really relevant; you should turn up when you are meant to. If, on the other hand, you have a choice then the following information may prove useful in making your decision.

• It can get very busy on the first day, with hundreds of students being dropped off. As a result, it might be difficult to find a place to park your car while you unload all of your belongings (see my guide on What to Take to University to find out more). Peak times tend to be from an hour or two after the gates open until late afternoon. So, if you want to avoid the chaos then you should choose to go either at the very start of the day or late in the day. If you don't have too much to take with you then this is less of an issue.

• You will have a lot of things to do in your first day. From sorting out your room, to registering with the university, to meeting your flatmates; the first day will just fly by. So, in my opinion it is a better idea to turn up early to give yourself the opportunity to arrange everything that needs to be done. This way you can also avoid some of the queues that build up later in the day.

• On the other hand, if you arrive too early then you may find that you are the only person there. So, turning up a few hours after arrivals begin would allow the party to get in full swing before you arrive. This might not necessarily be a bad thing, however, because it would allow you to get your room set up before people turn up (and so they won't think you are avoiding them while you are simply unpacking!).
  

First Thing to Do

When you have decided at what time to arrive you will need to know what to do first. Your university hopefully will have sent you some information about your first day, but it won't hurt to repeat it.

Seeing as you will have all of your belongings in your car or on your person, you clearly will want to start moving all of your gear into your room as soon as you arrive. This means that you are going to need to sort out your accommodation and pick up your keys first thing. Hopefully, before you arrive you will have found out where about you are staying (if not you should email the university for advise). Unless otherwise stated you will most probably have to turn up at your specific accommodation and pick up your keys there. If not you might have to pick them up from some central office. Print off a map on the internet beforehand to help you find it, though there should be signs spotted around on the day you are moving in to help you. You should take the following things with you when picking up your keys:

• A copy of your contract

• Proof of your acceptance to the university

• A few passport photos

• Details of your payment method

Obviously you might not be asked for all of this, but it's better to be prepared!


Now that you know what to do when you first arrive, it's time to find out about moving in.

Back to Your First Day at University

First Day at University

I am now going to briefly interrupt my series on "What to Take to University" to look at your first day. As that time is drawing nearer for students this year, I thought it would be a good idea to help you to understand everything you will need to do when you arrive at your respective universities. This information will come in another series of articles over the upcoming weeks. Future information to look out for includes:

> When You Arrive
> Moving In
> Meeting Your Flatmates
> Registering Yourself
> Sorting Your Student Finance
> Your First Night

As we go through this, I will attempt to explain everything you should need to know, before you arrive, about your first day. Obviously, some universities may have specific procedure for your arrival, and if this is the case you may well have to ignore the order that I suggest you follow (going down the list). I will help you decide which documents to take where and when, and how to make your first day comfortable and enjoyable.

I know from personal experience that your first day at university can be very stressful, and a lot of it is due to just plain having no idea what you are meant to be doing. So, hopefully through this some of the pressure will be taken off, and you will be able to have fun and have a carefree first day.

Look out for future articles on your first week at university.

Explanation of Housekeeping Accessories

This article continues from What to Take to University: Housekeeping.

Catered

Clothes Airer

University tumble dryers are renowned for being useless and sometimes you just can't fit all of your clothes in them anyways (or maybe they just aren't tumble dryable). Buying a clothes airer is a good idea. If you are like me and expect to be doing your washing infrequently then you might want to buy a big one (subject to room space). Explore your options here.

Hangers

Don't expect there to be too many hangers for your clothes when you arrive. Best to turn up with some of your own.

Iron

Unfortunately clothes don't iron themselves (though if you have your own bathroom try hanging your clothes in there after you have a shower - the creases disappear!). It's up to you to decide how much you want to spend but remember you will likely be using it for three of more years. Most of the irons here would be fine.

Ironing Board

Find out whether your university provides you with one first, it would look a little silly turning up with an ironing board if there was already one there. If you don't get given one then you might want to wait until you arrive and buy one with your flatmates.

Laundry Basket

I've seen students improvise all sorts of objects into laundry baskets/bags. I would definitely recommend having a proper one because they are easier to carry and it keeps your room looking tidy. Go for a bag to make it easier to carry around with you (or a bin if you don't like any of the bags!).

Washing Powder and Fabric Softener

To keep your clothes clean and soft (for those of you that don't know you add both of these to the washing machine when you are doing the laundry).

Non-Catered

Kitchen Roll

Nobody in our kitchen invested in any of this and it was a big mistake. If everyone turns up with one at the beginning of term it should last you a good while.

Washing up Liquid

Unfortunately not many universities provide dishwashers (in which case you should be buying dishwasher tablets instead). So, to prevent the spread of all sorts of horrible things best clean your dishes with washing up liquid.

Washing up Sponge

Grab a pack of sponges (they get ruined fast) to scrub your plates and pans with.

En-Suite

Bathroom Cleaning Fluid

To kill the bacteria you are going to need a bathroom cleaner. Something like Mr. Muscle Toilet and Bathroom Cleaner or Cillit Bang Power Cleaner Grime & Lime are what I am thinking of.

Bleach

To clean the toilet and get rid of any stains.

Sponge

You are going to have to scrub a little, so buy a good sponge with a rough side to it.

What to Take to University: Housekeeping

When you begin university you will become responsible for most of your own cleaning and tidying. The items listed here should give you a general idea of the sorts of things you will need to purchase to keep yourself and your belongings presentable. Beyond a couple of items, most of the stuff here can be bought from your local supermarket.

If you are catered and all your food is provided (i.e. you don't need to cook) then you should only need the items from the "Catered" section and possibly the "En-Suite" section (if you have your own bathroom). If you must prepare your own meals then you will need everything from the "Catered" and "Non-Catered" sections, and again the "En-Suite" section if you have your own bathroom.


Quicklist:

Catered
Clothes Airer
Hangers
Iron
Ironing Board
Laundry Basket
Washing Powder and Fabric Softener

Non-Catered
Kitchen Roll
Washing up Liquid
Washing up Sponge

En-Suite
Bathroom Cleaner
Bleach
Sponge


Next: Detailed Explanation of Housekeeping Accessories

Further Look at Clothing

This article continues from What to Take to University: Clothing.


Casual Clothing

Jeans, T-Shirts, Skirts, Tops etc. Pretty much whatever you are comfortable in.

Coats

While you may be going to university in the summer, you will be staying until the winter. I took a skiing jacket that served me well. Try to make sure you have something that protects you from the cold AND the rain.

Dressing Gown

For fire alarms and for covering yourself on the way to the shower.

Flip-flops

For the communal showers.

Fancy Dress

Fancy dress is a big part of university life. Find out the types of fancy dress parties going on in Fresher's Week and take appropriate costumes.

Formal Clothing

Most universities have some form of formal ball at some point in the year that you will need to dress up for. Take a suit or dress along for this occasion.

Gloves/Hat/Scarf

Goes along with the whole winter theme mentioned earlier, it can get pretty cold so it's best to be prepared.

Old School Shirt and Tie

A lot of universities have a "Back to School" type of night where people turn up dressed in their old school uniforms.

Slippers

When the fire alarm goes off at 3 in the morning it's much easier to slip on a pair of slippers than put socks and shoes on.

Sports Clothing

Take the clothing that is appropriate for the type of sport you want to do. If you do a martial art take your Gi along, if you play football take your boots with you etc.

Swimming Wear

Lots of universities have a swimming pool and if you are lucky you might even find a sunny day to go to the beach. Remember to take a beach/swimming towel along with you as well if you intend to swim.

Umbrella

Not clothing per say but I thought I should throw it in here for those awful rainy days.

What to Take to University: Clothing

Continuing with our "What to Take to University" series, we now look at the different items of clothing you may need during your time at university.

A lot of this section should be pretty obvious. Very few explanations will be provided - only where I think it might not be immediately apparent. Also, this time I choose to include no links as I don't pretend to know people's tastes and don't want to seem like I'm forcing my own preferences upon you. So, take a look through, print out the quicklist and cross items off as you pack them in the car.


Quicklist:

Casual Clothing
Coats
Dressing Gown
Flip-flops
Fancy Dress
Formal Clothing
Gloves/Hat/Scarf
Jumpers
Old School Shirt and Tie
Pyjamas
Slippers
Sports Clothing
Swimming Wear
Umbrella
Underwear


Next: A Further Look at Clothing

Electrical Luxuries

This article continues from What to Take to University: Electrical.


Computer Speakers

If you like playing your music loud and don't think the laptop speakers will be good enough for you may want to think about buying some speakers. A good, cheap option is the Logitech X-230 Speaker System. For this price they are very good. For a more expensive option you can go for surround sound, and the Philips SPA2600 5.1 channel Multimedia Speaker are a good choice.

Games Console

A good way to meet new people is to own a games console and T.V. and invite friends round to play. The Nintendo Wii Console is great fun to play with friends and is the cheapest of the latest generation consoles. You might also consider the XBox 360 which comes in either Core, Premium or Elite versions. The Sony PlayStation 3 has arguably the best graphics of any console but you will need a good T.V. to get the best out of it. Consider also a Sony PlayStation 2 which has the benefit of having been out for a long time so is cheaper and there are more games available.

Handheld Device

These devices can be useful for keeping track of your assignments, making notes and balancing your finances. You can buy software which allows you to type documents in word or excel and then transfer them on to your laptop at a later date. Moreover, buying a keyboard connection allows you to convert your handheld into mini-laptop, so if you want to do some work in the library but don't want to take your laptop with you, then you can take this instead.

Palm are the most popular, and in my opinion best, brand of handheld. They come in a variety of styles and prices and it is worth considering what you need it for before making a purchase. The Palm Z22 is the basic model but for most purposes should do everything you need. You could spend a little more to get the Palm TUNGSTEN E2 which is a more advanced model, but it is up to you to decide whether it is worth the extra cost. You can read reviews on both of these here:

Palm Z22 Review
Palm TUNGSTEN E2 Review

iPod

I don't think I need to explain the benefits of an iPod and I expect most people will have one already. But for anyone considering getting one an iPod becomes a huge benefit at university either when you are getting the bus in and out or studying in the library. Go for the Apple iPod nano for a small version, or the Apple iPod 30GB Video (also available in white) if you want the option to watch films and videos as well as music.

T.V.

Some students decide to buy televisions. They can provide a useful distraction when you get bored and are a good way to bond with people. Remember you will need to buy a T.V. license as well, which isn't cheap. It's up to you to decide whether your favourite television programmes are worth the cost.

If you do decide to buy one, then a good option is the Philips 14PT6107 14" Combined TV/DVD. The built in DVD player is a nice extra for when you get tired of watching films on your laptop. If you have a lot more money to spend then Samsung LE19R71BX - 19'' Widescreen LCD TV is one of the most popular televisions at the moment, and its small size and high quality imagine is a good bonus.


This concludes the set of articles describing the types of electronics goods available. Now use this information to choose what you want and write a list of everything you think you need. Electronics are some of the best things to buy online for their lower value and the simplicity of having everything turn up on your doorstep. So, why not explore my recommendations and see whether they are right for you.


Back to Detailed Explanation of Suggested Electricals

Suggested Electricals

This article continues from What to Take to University: Electrical.


Calculator

A calculator will be very useful for everyone, though obviously if you are a mathematician you are probably going to need a better one than an artist. However, you should have at least a pocket calculator such as the Sharp EL-240SAB Electronic Pocket Calculator to perform simple calculations and help with the finances.

For scientists in some exams you will be able to use scientific calculators, and I recommend the Casio FX 991 ES Calculator for this task. Lastly, anyone studying mathematics or a heavily mathematics reliant degree should consider investing in either a Texas Instruments TI 83 Plus or TI 89 graphical calculator. These calculator power houses can perform an incredible number of functions as well as do tasks such as graphing and statistical analysis. Although the TI 89 is the more advanced model, either would likely suit your needs.

Computer Mouse and Keyboard

Using the built in laptop mouse and keyboard can get uncomfortable after a while, and is harder and hence slower to use than your conventional desktop version. For that reason I suggest investing in a wireless mouse and keyboard that can be connected to your laptop.

I use the Logitech Cordless Rechargeable Desktop. Easy to install and with a mouse recharger included, this keyboard and mouse combination make typing an email or browsing the internet easy and comfortable. Although this is good value for money, for a cheaper option you could consider the Logitech Cordless Desktop EX 110, which does the same thing but without the ability to recharge your mouse's batteries.

NOTE: if you have a Windows Vista laptop make sure that the keyboard and mouse you are buying is compatible.

Docking Station

Although not an electronic item in itself, a notebook dock is a very useful laptop accessory. It allows you to effectively convert your laptop into a desktop computer, and makes reconnecting wires and cables to your computer easy after you have taken it out with you. I own a Kensington Notebook Expansion Dock With Adjustable Base and find it to work perfectly. It raises the screen to eye level and also enables your computer to release heat much better than standing on a desk. If you don't think you need the adjustable base you can just go with a Kensington Notebook Expansion Dock, but I think the stand is worth the extra 15 pounds.

Multiplug Adaptors

If you are purchasing a lot of electronic goods then you are going to need a lot of plug sockets to connect them all too. Seeing as you may have a lot of expensive equipment, it is definitely worth buying one with a built in surge protector to shield your electronic goods. You should decide how many of these you want, I own two which allowed me to put electronics in different areas of my room. Further, you should consider the length of cable that you need.

Belkin are the best brand of surge protector, and you can buy the Belkin SurgeMaster 4-Way in either a 1 metre of 2 metre version. If you think you might need even more plug sockets you can go for the Belkin SurgeMaster 6-Way or 8-Way for a little more money.

Printer

Although every university will have their own printing facilities, owning your own printer is certainly something to consider. Over three or more years the costs of printing at the university can quickly add up, and it may well be more economical in the long run to have your own printer. More importantly, when you are running close to a deadline it's much easier to print your work out and run it down to turn in than have to stop off at the library and find all the computers are being used. Lots of people I know at university decided to buy printers, and I'm sure all would agree they were good investments.

In terms of printers you have three main choices: photo printers, printers with scanners or your basic printer. Photo printers can obviously also print normal documents as well as any other printer, but also have the added benefit of being able to generate high quality photos so you can get your pictures without having to get them developed. A good, cheap but highly praised printer in this category is the Canon Pixma iP4300 Photo Printer. If you want to have the capacity to scan documents then you should consider the HP Photosmart C3180 All-in-One Printer. This is the printer that I use and it is highly recommended, printing fast and providing high quality scans as well as being very easy to set up and use. Consider the Canon Pixma MP500 Photo All-in-One with LCD Viewer if you are looking for a photo printer with a scanner included (though remember you pay a premium for this). Lastly, for a basic printer at a lower price you can not go far wrong with the Epson Stylus D68 Photo Edition Colour Inkjet Printer.

Finally, if your printer does not come with one included, you will need a USB cable to connect your printer to your laptop. You will find that many printers do not come with one. Either the 1.8 metre or 3 metre Belkin cable will do the job perfectly (try to imagine how far your printer is likely to be from your computer when picking the length - remember its always best to buy one too long than short!)

NOTE: if you have a Windows Vista laptop make sure that the printer you are buying is compatible.

Rechargeable Batteries

If you are like me then you are going to get through a lot of batteries. To save money in the long run you can invest in rechargeable batteries. The Energizer 1 Hour Charger for AA + AAA Batteries should work well (and comes with 4 AA batteries included). If you think you will be using more than 4 batteries at once you might want to consider an extra pack of AA batteries.

USB Pen (Flash) Drive

Lots of students own these and for good reason. To transfer files from your own computer to the library computers or back up important documents a USB pen drive is a must have. For the amount of information they hold these things are ridiculously cheap and so easy to use.

There are many different brands to choose from and each makes them in a number of different storage sizes. Most people won't need anything more than the ByteStor 1GB USB 2.0 flash drive, but you can also buy a 2GB version, or for something even bigger the SanDisk 4GB Cruzer has more space than you should ever need.

Webcam

If your laptop does not come with a built in webcam then it is worth considering buying one. It allows you to keep in contact with friends and family and makes any conversation feel much more personal. They are easy to set up and connect simply to programs such as MSN Messenger and Skype.

I recommend buying a Logitech webcam, simply because I have used them and find them to work very well and be good value for money. I have chosen three possible webcams in different price ranges. For a very cheap option you should consider the QuickCam Express Webcam OEM. I would suggest spending a little more to buy the Logitech Quickcam Messenger, as you can connect this to the top of your laptop while the cheaper version must rest on something. Better yet you might want to buy the Logitech Quickcam for Notebooks with built in microphone. This is especially designed to attach to the top of a laptop and reportedly produces high quality picture and audio.

NOTE: if you have a Windows Vista laptop make sure that the webcam you are buying is compatible.


Next: Detailed Explanation of Electrical Luxuries

Back to Detailed Explanation of Electrical Necessities

Electrical Necessities

This article continues from What to Take to University: Electrical.


Alarm Clock

Definitely a necessity, if you want to make those early 9 o clock lectures then you are going to need an alarm clock. You don't need anything expensive and can't go wrong with the Sony Easy Alarm Clock Radio, though for iPod users with money to throw away the JBL OnTime Time Machine lets you wake up to your own music and doubles up as a stereo.

Camera

Taking pictures is a good way to catalogue your first year at university. With social networking websites such as facebook you can upload your pictures to show all your friends, and so owning a camera is a good idea. Cameras are not cheap but if you look at it as a 3 year (or more) investment then it is definitely worth the money.

There are many cameras to choose from and it worth doing some research on the internet before you buy. If you have some money to spend then the Canon IXUS 70 Digital Camera is a popular option, being light and small so easy to carry around in your pocket. If you want something cheaper you might consider the Fuji FinePix A610 Digital Camera, while your picture quality won't be so good you do save quite a lot of money.

Floppy Disks/CD's

Depending on whether or not you have a floppy disk drive on your computer you will need to either purchase some floppy disks or CD's as eventually you will be asked to submit a hard copy of some coursework. You can buy 50 CD-Rs and put your favourite music on to disk as well, or 10 floppy disks for 50 pence and just hold on to them until they are needed.

Headphones

If you want to listen to music or watch films at night without disturbing your fellow students then you will need some computer headphones. It is worth getting them with a microphone built in so that if you want to talk to friends from home without spending a fortune on phone bills you can do so online.

Logitech are a good brand and make some good headphones, I personally use the Logitech 250 Stereo USB Headset and find they work very well and do everything I need. For a cheaper option you could consider the Labtec 242 Stereo Headset. The Logitech Premium Stereo USB Headset 350 is a slightly more expensive upgrade to the Logitech 250 but for most people's purposes should not be necessary.

NOTE: if you have a Windows Vista laptop make sure that the headphones you are buying are compatible.

Mobile Phone

A mobile phone is a must have accessory for any student. Although most people will already have one it is worth finding out whether your current provider has good reception around the university, as often times one or more operators do not function very well.

You can either go for Pre-Pay or Pay Monthly phones (normally the former is cheaper if you don't think you will be using your phone much and the latter if you will be using it a lot). It is worth exploring the types of phone available and deciding what you want to use it for before making a purchase (you don't need a phone with a state o