Frequently Asked Questions

How to contact the Cardinal Technology Center

You may call us at 650-329-1217 ext 8456 or email us at: computers@bookstore.stanford.org



Benefits of buying at the Cardinal Technology Center

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. We are conveniently located, carry a large inventory of products, are often able to replace new units that are defective, have in-house repair forApple computers, and offer frequent deals on recently discountinued merchandise. Also, we have seasonal promotional offers, especially during the back-to-school time frame and the winter holiday period.



Who is eligible to buy hardware and software from Stanford?

PC Hardware - Lenovo, Dell, Acer, Microsoft do not require an Academic affiliation.

Software: Academic affiliation (ID) required.

Apple Hardware and Software: Stanford affiliation required.
*Stanford Students * Stanford Faculty * Stanford Staff * Visiting Scholars * Continuing Studes Students * Stanford Conference and Camp Attendees (accredited) * Admit Students * Employees of Stanford Hospital and Clinics (and affiliate clinics), LPCH * SLAC Employees * DMA Students * Temp/Casual ID Holders

Supplies and Peripherals (accessories): Academic affiliation not required.



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.



What forms of Payment do you accept?

Most credit cards, debit cards, AMEX, Discover, an cash are accepted. Checks are accepted if a valid Stanford ID and a government ID are presented, with the same address as on the check.

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.



Custom Orders

Can I order an Apple computer or ThinkPad with different specifications than those listed on your price list?

Yes, please talk to 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.

Departmental and Institutionals Orders

Departmental and Institutional orders can be processed using a Stanford Purchasing Card (PCard) or a Stanford Requisition (PO). Stanford Requisitions are routed to the bookstore via Stanford Procurement. Our fax number is 650-325-3476 (use prefix as this is not a Stanford extension).



Returns & Exchanges (Computer Department)

Please save your receipt and packaging. Your original receipt, a valid ID, and the original product with all contents are required for a return or exchange.

Guidelines: Within 14 days from the day of purchase: we accept returns for exchange or refund on any unopened item with the below exceptions*. Open product deemed defective by the manufacturer can be exchanged or returned. A 15% Restocking Fee may be assessed on all other non-defective open returns.

*Non Returnable Items: Opened software or license software, special order or custom configuration items, personalized or Engraved items, Open printer ink/toner, pre-paid cards such as iTunes gift cards or phone cards, service installation and labor cost, shipping and handling fees.



Shipping: Do you ship computers?

We ship merchandise to locations in the mainland U.S. for free using FedEx ground shipping. All shipments are insured. We can also ship FedEx 2nd Day Air (signature required) for a $28.00 fee. Ask a sales associate for a quote on shipping.

Do I pay sales tax on my shipment?
Sales tax will be collected based on the sales tax rate of the state it is shipping to.



Engraving

We can special order your iPod/iPad with engraving done at the factory. The engraving process usually takes about a week. The maximum number of characters, including spaces, is 34.



Applecare

Do I have to purchase AppleCare at the same time that I purchase the computer?
No, you have 1 year from the purchase date of your computer.

What are the advantages of purchasing AppleCare with my computer?
Because Apple makes the hardware, the operating system, and many applications, the Mac is a truly integrated system. And only the AppleCare Protection Plan gives you one-stop service and support from Apple experts, so most issues can be resolved in a single call. You also get global repair coverage for your Mac - both parts and labor - through convenient service options:

* One stop for technical support:
- Direct access to Apple experts
- Global repair coverage
- Onsite, mail-in, or carry-in repairs

* Apple hardware coverage
- Your Mac computer
- Time Capsule or AirPort Device
- Apple display purchased with Mac

* Software support included
- Using Mac OS X
- iLife and iWork questions
- Connecting to AirPort networks

Does Apple cover accidental damage?
Please visit www.safeware.com for information about accidental damage protection.