IT is able to provide three different levels of computer purchase support to different segments of our campus. These levels are designed with the goal in mind of ensuring that all university members have access to reliable and standardized computing resources, while maintaining cost-effectiveness and maximum hardware reliability.

Level 1: Campus Lifecycle Replacement

Under this level of support, computers are part of the campus lifecycle replacement program and are funded by the campus based on the percentage of GRA funding of the assigned computer user. The primary work computers for most for the campus community fall under this level. These would previously have been named Desktop Enhancement computers. Each 100% FTE person should have one such computer as long as they need a computer to complete their job duties. These computers will be supported by IT as long as the DELL warranty is active. We have partnered with Dell to provide a comprehensive warranty that will last four years. As such, the lifecycle for a Campus Lifecycle Replacement computer is defined as four years. IT support for these computers includes warranty hardware repairs, software troubleshooting, access to campus services, general technical assistance, and the use of campus purchased software.  Due to recent changes that allow for shifting to remote operation during severe winter weather, we have been transitioning this part of the campus computer fleet to DELL laptops with docking stations.  Replacement of these computers once they reach the end of their lifecycle will be funded by campus based on the percentage of GRA funding of the assigned computer user.

Level 2: Department-Funded

When departments, research labs, or individuals need another computer for specialized computing needs and have their own budgets for computer purchases, the university extends its support to these computers as well. Computers funded by departments will also be supported by IT as long as there is an active Dell warranty. Therefore, the lifecycle for a Department-Funded computer is defined as the warranty timeline purchased. IT support for these computers includes warranty hardware repairs, software troubleshooting, access to campus services, general technical assistance, and the use of campus purchased software to ensure seamless functioning. It is essential for the purchased computers to fit within the campus standards to maintain uniformity and compatibility across the institution. Replacement of these computers once they reach the end of their lifecycle will be funded by departments.  Once a computer has reached the end of their warranty, the computer will no longer be supported by IT and will be sent to surplus if the computer is determined to be a cyber security risk.

Level 3: Assistance for Individuals Unable to Afford Computer Replacement (Thin Clients)

We recognize that not all members of our community have the financial means to replace their computers when needed. In such cases, we offer limited support through the university. Individuals who cannot afford a replacement computer can reach out to our IT department, and can be provided a thin client computer. Our policies are designed to maximize hardware reliability and ensure standardization across the institution, which is why purchasing computers outside of IT procurement, be it at a big-box store with a One Card, purchasing used or refurbished computers, or purchasing computers that do not meet the campus standard are not viable options.  Industry data has shown that computers over four years old begin to experience hardware failure that can be unrecoverable or have a catastrophic impact on productivity. Nonetheless, we are committed to providing comprehensive computer support to all members of our community, regardless of their financial circumstances. Please reach out to our IT department for further information or assistance regarding computer purchases or support.