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Tips on Purchasing University
Computers, Accessories and Printers

Intended Audience This document is intended to provide faculty and staff with information and tips on the transition to a new/different desktop computer, laptop, tablet or printer connected to the IPFW network.

Recommendations

Computer Purchases

  • Check http://www.ipfw.edu/purchasing/departments/computers.shtml for current vendors with university purchasing agreements.
  • Check the Special Purdue deals.
  • Verify operating system is Windows XP Professional SP2 and computer has Intel Pentium processor.
  • Dells Optiplex series for desktops or Latitude for laptops work well on campus network.
  • Gateways Desktops - E Series 4500 or better, avoid the 2500 or any of the Profile series
    Gateway Notebooks - M280Eb or better (M460Eb, M680Eb), avoid the M250Eb

General Recommendations

  • Intel Pentium or AMD Athlon processor, not Intel Celeron or AMD Duron.
  • 1 Gb RAM
  • USB optical mouse
  • larger hard drives = larger backups, or none at all...
  • DVD +/-RW optical drive - Windows XP has media included, no need to purchase additional software
  • USB Optical mouse
  • 17" or higher high resolution LCD flat panel display
  • Hardware Support Services - purchase hardware coverage by the number of years you expect to keep this computer.
  • Gold Technical support from Dell is not needed for on-campus university equipment

Accessories:

  • Wireless card should be a/b/g
  • Wide screens for flat panels means wider but not taller.
  • Docking stations - if you desire an external, monitor, keyboard, mouse, etc.... Check out details of each prior to making your selection. Make sure that you have all external parts to be able to use it.

Printer Purchases:

  • If printer to be on the network do not purchase any of the all in one units i.e. fax/printer/copier. They do not work with the campus network print technology
  • Networked printer follow the minimum guidelines at http://www.its.ipfw.edu/policies/workstations.shtml
  • For local printers recommend a laser printer.

Mac Purchases