Desktop Computers for New Tenure-Track Faculty

As a new tenure-track faculty member, you will receive a newly-purchased computer.  If you have discussed something specific with the Dean (in terms of a specific type of computer,specific features, peripherals, printers, other equipment), let us know, and we'll talk more.  The standard newly purchased computers we are ordering this summer are: 

• Dell Windows 7 (64-bit) Desktop PC, or laptop:
  approx. 2.8GHz Intel i7 quad-core processor (2.4GHz i7 processor for laptop)
  4GB RAM
  approximate 500GB hard drive
  DVD/RW drive (reads and writes CDs and DVDs)
  19" flat panel display on desktop PC
  specific specifications subject to change, see complete list of features on the computer request form

• Apple Macintosh:
  Macintosh 21.5" iMac (Quad-Core Intel Core i5 processor), or 13" MacBook Pro (Dual-core Intel Core i7 processor), running Lion OS
  Internal DVD-RW drive
  1TB hard drive (750GB laptop)
  4GB RAM
  subject to change, see complete list of features on the computer request form

• Important Note: The cost of optional features and peripherals as listed on the request form may be covered by other funding sources than your department's budget, depending on what you may have negotiated with the Dean's Office. Let us know if  you have access to other funding to cover such extras.

• Printing:
  If you arranged to receive a personal inkjet printer, our standard purchase is a current model from the Epson Stylus Color line.  Please note that personal printers are NOT in the replacement cycle.  Your deparment will be responsible for purchasing ink cartridges and funding any of your future replacement printers, whether due to hardware failure, obsolescence, etc.

  If you plan to print to networked shared laser printers, they are abundantly located throughout academic buildings and in all Division offices.  You can print to all these locations from your office computer.  Color laser printing is available (for nominal charge) in the Olin Computer Lab and the Multimedia Development Lab.  High-resolution/large-format (up to 42"wide) printing is available for a fee in the Multimedia Development Lab.

All hardware is more than sufficient for general use, which would include email, web browsing, word processing, spreadsheets, powerpoint, basic image editing, etc.  Desktop computers are on a five-year replacement cycle; Laptops are on a four-year replacement cycle. Again, if your needs are extremely advanced or unusual, or if you negotiated something specific with the Dean, please let us know via the computer request form, or by contacting the appropriate Academic Technology Consultant for your division.  We will work with you to meet your needs as much as possible.

If you have questions or would like additional information, please contact the Academic Technology Consultant for your Division.