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Tablet Purchasing Frequently Asked Questions

Is a tablet right for me?

It depends! Tablets are good for some things and not for others. If you take notes, create basic text documents, use email and surf the web, a tablet may be for you. Tablets offer long battery life, are ultra light weight and many can connect to Wi-Fi and 3G or 4G.

Should I get a tablet with 3G or 4G capability?

All tablets come with Wi-Fi but many models are also available with 3G or 4G service through a provider (AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, T-Mobile). A 3G or 4G provider will only be needed if you plan on travelling to places without a Wi-Fi connection. If you do travel frequently and may need Internet connection for this device on your travels then you may opt to purchase the tablet with 3G or 4G coverage. You can purchase a tablet with this added coverage via the manufacturer (Apple, Google) or by visiting a service provider website or store.

Which tablet is right for me?

A variety of tablets are available on the market today. Each provide different user experiences at different price points. If you are unsure of which tablet you would like, IT recommends taking a look at CNET's Tablet Buying Guide.

How might a tablet be used in a classroom?

Tablets have a variety of applications in the classroom. The following links provide some insight to get you started.

• 6 Reasons Why Tablets are Ready for the Classroom (mashable.com)
• iPad in Education (apple.com)
• How Android Tablets Could Fit Into Your Classroom (edudemic.com)
• iPad at Butler University (blogs.butler.edu)

How might a tablet be used in a staff or administrative area?

Tablets have a variety of applications in the classroom. The following links provide some insight to get you started.

• iPad in Business (apple.com)
• How to use Your iPad for Business (entreprenette.com)
• 9 Powerful Business Users for Tablet Computers (informationweek.com)

What tablets does Butler recommend?

IT suggests that you purchase a tablet best suited to meet your needs with the minimum recommendations below. IT will be able to provide limited support if you purchase a product with at least these specifications.

	iPad	Android Tablet	Windows Tablet
Processor	Any	Any	Intel i-Series or Atom
RAM	Any	Any	2GB
Physical Storage	16GB	16GB	32GB
Operating System      Version	iOS 5	Android 3.0 (Honeycomb)	Windows 8 RT
Recommended Manufacturer	Apple	Google Nexus	Any