David Gresham, CIO of Winona State University’s Information Technology services announced via e-mail April 2 that the Toshiba Portege M700 will be the new PC computer model provided to students starting next fall. The MacBook model will be the MB062LL/B.
This Toshiba model contains many features that current PC users are used to seeing in their laptop, such as tablet capabilities.
The Portege M700 will have 4 GB of RAM, which is 4 times the amount of the current Gateway model. It will have a 12.1 inch display, a 120 GB hard-drive, and a built-in webcam.
Perhaps one of the greatest selling points of the M700 is that it weighs 4.6 pounds, which is almost 2.5 pounds lighter than the current Gateway modal.
“We had a large defection away from gateways last year because many people wanted a lighter machine. Now with a lighter model, I expect many of those people will come back to PC,” said Gresham. “The Toshiba is 4.6 pounds instead of seven and it still performed high on our benchmark tests.”
One area of possible concern with the Toshiba model is its battery life. Several internet rating sites rate its battery life as poor. However, Gresham asserts that the company promised 3 to 4 hours of battery life.
“It did good on our benchmark testing,” said Gresham. “Another great advantage is that Toshiba will replace the battery after one year as part of their contract.”
Students who are receiving new computers in the fall have a consideration to make: Will they choose to have the Toshiba modal or the MacBook?
Gresham said he believes that students will stick to their personal preferences, and in some ways the two models are similar.
“Both models have DVD, a webcam, the Toshiba has more memory because we couldn’t afford to upgrade the apple up to 4 gigs and the weight is 4.6 pounds compared to 5,” said Gresham.
Another thing to consider is that the MacBook will come equipped with Leopard, its new operating system, while the Toshiba will receive Vista in the fall of 2009. Vista will take up a good portion of the Toshiba’s 4 GB of RAM, but the model is well equipped to support it.
The process of selecting the Toshiba modal began last semester with the creation of an interdisciplinary RFP team consisting of students, faculty, IT personnel, and a representative from the finances office.
The team had to follow strict rules throughout the process.
They invited vendors in to showcase their modals and also randomly surveyed students and faculty about their laptop preferences.
“The survey showed that the students wanted a lighter modal than the Gateway. The Toshiba modal was the only one that met all of our requirements,” said Gresham. “I think the Winona State community will be happy with both of our selections.”

Contact Greg at GJEichten1670@winona.edu