Computer Support Services

Computer System Standards

Overview

One of our roles in Computer Support Services (hereafter CSS) is to evaluate the computer needs of campus users and assist with searching out the best computer hardware configuration that meets those needs.  We help CWU with WHAT to buy.

Our current basic minimum hardware standards for all computer types are an Intel Core i5 processor (or the Apple M1), 16Gb of RAM and a 256Gb SSD. 

Warranty

Most also require a warranty:

• PC Desktop – require 3-year manufacturer warranty (contracted - does not include accidental damage)
• PC Laptop – require 3-year onsite manufacturer warranty (CWU does not require accidental damage coverage, but this option is available)
• Apple Desktop – due to changes with Apple warranty offerings, we no longer require an extended warranty. Extended AppleCare+ for Education warranties are available if requested but are not required.
• Apple Laptop – due to changes with Apple warranty offerings, we no longer require an extended warranty. Extended AppleCare+ for Education warranties are available if requested but are not required.
• Surfaces and iPads – cannot be repaired onsite so we recommend but do not require 3-year warranties on these units although accidental damage coverage has been valuable (but again, not required).

We do not support the use of 3^rd party warranty services for any CWU computer hardware.  Historically these warranties have not been of good value for CWU, so we require manufacturer warranties whenever applicable.

For any questions on HOW and WHERE to buy, please view some convenient options at:  e-Purchasing page or contact the Purchasing Office at: Purchasing_Office@cwu.edu.  CSS and Purchasing collaborate on many of these processes.

Also note – all CWU computers are delivered through CSS so they can be recorded and tagged according to the procedures and requirements laid out by Property Management here.

PC Desktops

CWU has contracted providers for PC Desktops:  Currently we use two, CTL and US Micro.  In the interests of a standard platform, we specify all the individual hardware components used in our PC desktop systems.  The prices from each vendor are updated monthly and can always be found here. At the bottom of that page is a link to a more detailed breakdown of the hardware also found here. These units are purchased using the Online Requisition process through CWU Purchasing.  The required 3-year warranty is included in the purchase price listed.

PC Laptops

CWU currently recommends and supports Dell and Lenovo laptops.  These manufacturers have a proven track record with CWU of being able to provide quality laptops with a long useful life (6+ years in many cases) and these manufacturers also have been very good with after-purchase service processes (i.e., warranty work).

A quote from Dell or Lenovo can be attached to an Online Requisition to initiate the Purchasing processes.  CSS will obtain and forward a quote for you to use with your Online Requisition.  Warranty cost is included in purchase price on these quotes.  Historically, buying directly from the manufacturers has been the best value for CWU, especially as the required 3-year warranty is an additional cost. 

In urgent or emergency situations, it is possible to purchase from third party resellers (CDWg, Amazon, etc.), but this is used only as a last resort as the costs are historically higher than buying direct and it can be difficult to obtain the correct warranty coverage.

Apple Desktops, Laptops, and iPads

We purchase Apple products for CWU through our very own Wildcat Shop, as they are an Apple Authorized Reseller.  You can contact Mary.Rill@cwu.edu  to start this process.  They have our minimum requirements and can assist you with the purchase of these units for your department.  Be sure to tell them the purchase is for CWU as they also sell Apple products for personal use!

Note:  Apple has been transitioning to a new, non-Intel processor, the M1.  This processor is supported by CSS and meets the minimum hardware requirements.

Microsoft Surfaces

Surfaces are best purchased via CDWg on a PCard.  The minimum hardware requirements are still required.  As these units cannot be repaired onsite, extended warranty coverage is recommended but not required.  If the units are to be used by multiple people, we strongly encourage the addition of accidental damage coverage.

Monitors and Printers

With changes to state requirements for tagging and recording most monitors and printers are shipped directly to individual users on campus.  In addition, the increase in variety, options and personal preferences make it difficult to provide specific product suggestions. 

Our recommendations for these units are brief:

• Monitors – we strongly recommend the monitor include a Display Port interface (most monitors have two or three different connection options).  Also, we recommend against anything with an external power brick.  If the monitor and brick get separated, you are left with expensive paperweights.  CDWg (on PCard) is the most common source for purchasing CWU monitors.
• Desktop Printers – we have long supported the HP family of printers.  For product longevity, we recommend going with laser whenever possible.  CDWg (on PCard) is the most common source for purchasing CWU printers. 
• Network Printers – we typically recommend Canon or Xerox models for multi-function printers, although other brands are acceptable.  Please work with the Purchasing Office to create your requisition based on leasing or purchase options.

Questions?

If you have any questions about any of the information above, please submit a Service - New Hardware Purchase Inquiry and the question will be routed to the Computer Support Services Team.