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 in finding 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 Ultra 5 processor (or Apple Silicon), 16 GB of RAM, and a 256 GB SSD.
Warranty
Most also require a warranty:
- PC Desktop – requires a 3-year manufacturer warranty (contracted - does not include accidental damage)
- PC Laptop – requires a 3-year on-site 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 3rd 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 the 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 outlined by Property Management here.
PC Desktops
CWU works with multiple vendors for PC Desktops. Currently, we recommend Dell devices for ease of management, but we also provide quotes for Lenovo, CTL, and US Micro computers. 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 providing quality laptops with a long useful life (6+ years in many cases), and these manufacturers have also 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 process. CSS will obtain and forward a quote for you to use with your Online Requisition. Warranty cost is included in the 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 via the requisition process. A quote may be obtained from Computer Support Services (no longer purchasing via the CWU bookstore as of 1/1/26).
Microsoft Surfaces
Surfaces are best purchased via CDWg on a PCard. The minimum hardware requirements still apply. 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 adding 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 DisplayPort 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) or Dell monitors supplied via New Hardware Purchase Inquiry are the most common sources for purchasing CWU monitors.
- Desktop Printers – we have long supported the HP printer family. 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.
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