Information and Technology Services is committed to providing technical support to the faculty, staff, and students of the University. In order to fulfill that commitment, it is critical that we establish common standards for both hardware and software. The standards specified below will meet the needs of the average computer user including word processing, spreadsheet, web browser, e-mail, and access to the MnSCU Integrated Student Records Systems. It is highly recommended that faculty and staff consult with ITS or the Campus Computer Store before purchasing. Questions can be directed to the Help Desk at 389-6654 or Campus Computer Store at 389-1907.
ITS is recommending that you purchase either Dell, Gateway or Apple computers and HP printers. The Campus Computer Store has established a relationship with Dell, Gateway and Apple to provide the campus with the lowest prices and free shipping. Our Electronic Repair Services department is certified to work on both Dell, Gateway and Apple computers and we are reimbursed for doing many warranty repairs. Profits from the Computer Store are returned to the University. The Computer Store has recently paid over $43,000 for the Microsoft Campus Agreement. That will save money for every department. By purchasing Dell, Gateway and Apple computers you will receive the lowest prices, best service, and profits are used to fund ITS initiatives that benefit everyone on campus.
Purchasing will place orders for workstations that meet or exceed the recommended standards from the approved vendors with no further approvals required. Orders for workstations that do not meet the hardware standards or are from an unapproved vendor must be accompanied by a "Waiver of Standards". A waiver requires the coordination of Information and Technology Services and the approval of the respective Dean or Vice President. Any hardware purchased via waiver must be purchased with a vendor maintenance/service contract for the life of the equipment (3 years minimum).
The recommended minimum standards should be considered when purchasing a computer. They should meet the needs of the average computer user for the next 3 to 4 years. A user can purchase systems and components that exceed the recommended standards.
Recommended Wireless Ethernet card: Linksys or TrueMobile. Laptop/notebook users may want to consider purchasing a wireless Ethernet card to use on campus. Desktop users should not buy wireless Ethernet cards. For best performance desktop users should use the Ethernet connection in the wall of their office.
