Best laptop accessories for college?

I am going off to college in a couple of weeks and was wonder what kind of accessories I should buy. I have a Dell SXPS16, an Antec cooler to go, Altec Lansing speakers, an EMS protective case, and a Logitech G25. I am planning on getting a Zalman NC2000 for desktop use. I also thought a multi usb port type device would be a good idea. Is there anything else I should consider thats not the standard fair? What about a good portable wireless mouse? Is a router necessary (I think my school has a good connection)? Thanks.

 

If your school has WiFi access, you won't need your own router. You may want to bring an ethernet cable just in case, or if you want to connect to a wired network.

If the laptop will be staying on your desk, then a wireless mouse isn't really necessary. In my dorm last year, when my laptop was at the desk, it was plugged into my wired Logitech G9 mouse.

The one thing you didn't mention that is an absolute necessity at college is a Kensington lock. People really will take whatever isn't anchored into the ground, which is why the Kensington lock exists.

 

Headphones, not everyone likes listening to what you are.

 

I have a pair of Shure SE210K's so I am set on headphones. I heard for the lock devices that people just rip them out of the computer, thus braking your computer (would this fall under accidental damage forgiveness for Dell?). I also have Lo Jack, but I do not know how well that works.

 

It is possible to rip the Kensington lock out of a laptop, but it will take a chunk of the plastic chassis with it, making it very obviously marked as stolen. And that's more effort than most college kids will put into stealing a laptop anyway. If they're going to go to the trouble to gank one, it will be an unlocked and unattended one.

 

That's right. A notebook with a corner missing isn't going to make them much money, so they'll just go for someone else's instead. I've heard of thieves armed with hacksaws to go through kensingtons, but in that not so average case the lock would buy you a few minutes anyway.

 

if a thief wanted to steal something (anything), he/she simply would. locks and safety devices are just thief deterrents. it might not completely stop a thief from thinkin bout takin yur laptop, but it'll at least make him hesitate or think about it. those few minutes are very important when it comes to defending yur property.

as far as a cooler for yur desktop, i would suggest the NZXT cryo LX. it's about the same cost as the nc2k, but it'll perform alot better. especially when it comes to yur notebook. the GPU and CPU vents are located in the back area. plus the cryo LX comes with 4 USB ports, so it'll solve yur USB hub problem.

 

Haha, right on schedule with the Cryo LX sales pitch, houstoned. Billy Mays smiles upon you.

 

nc1k/2k is already overrated by the misinformed. no need for more misguidance. if he's ready to dish out top notch dough then the least i can do is recommend him the top notch cooler.