Choose a University Computer and Accessories

Jump to: Overview | Applies To | Details | Windows Computer | macOS Computer | Monitor | Accessories | Things to Know | Need More Help

Overview

Provides recommended computer hardware, monitors, and accessories for university-supported devices. These recommendations align with vendor partnerships, lifecycle planning, and IT management tools.

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What This Is About

You want to know which computers and accessories to purchase for compatibility, support, and performance. These recommendations help ensure devices work efficiently with university systems and are easier for IT teams to manage.

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Applies To

• Faculty and staff purchasing university devices
• University-managed Windows and macOS computers
• Devices purchased through approved procurement channels (e.g., iBuy)

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Before You Start

• Purchase devices through approved vendors (iBuy) to ensure proper configuration
• Confirm your department’s budget and approval process
• Verify any role-specific requirements (e.g., high-performance computing needs)

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Details

Why These Recommendations Exist

• Devices purchased through iBuy include negotiated pricing discounts
• Vendors automatically register devices with:
  • Apple School Manager (ASM)
  • Microsoft Autopilot
• Automated enrollment allows IT teams to:
  • Configure devices remotely
  • Apply security policies
  • Reduce setup time
• Recommendations are updated regularly based on:
  • Hardware specifications and performance standards
  • Vendor availability
  • Product refresh cycles
• Typical vendor release cycles:
  • Dell: Summer
  • Apple: Fall

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Recommended Windows Computer

Dell Pro 14 Plus (PB14250)

• 14" display
• Intel Core Ultra 7 processor
• 32GB RAM
• 512GB SSD
• 5-Year Dell Basic Support warranty
  • Does not include accidental damage coverage

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Recommended macOS Computer

MacBook Pro (14")

• Apple M5 Pro chip
  • 15-core CPU
  • 16-core GPU
• 24GB memory
• 1TB SSD
• 4-Year AppleCare+ for Schools
  • Includes accidental damage coverage

Available configurations:

• Space Black (CDW# 9094269)
• Silver (CDW# 9094226)

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Recommended Monitor

Dell P3426WEB

• 34-inch monitor
• Compatible with both Windows and macOS devices
• Integrated webcam
• Built-in speakers
• Single standard monitor recommendation simplifies support and setup

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Recommended Keyboard and Mouse

For Windows Devices

• Dell KM900 keyboard and mouse combo

For macOS Devices

• Apple Magic Mouse (White)
• Apple Magic Keyboard options:
  • Standard
  • With numeric keypad
  • With Touch ID
  • With numeric keypad and Touch ID

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Things to Know

• Purchasing outside of approved vendors may result in:
  • Lack of automatic enrollment in management systems
  • Increased setup time
  • Limited IT support
• Hardware specifications may change based on vendor updates
• Departments with specialized needs may require different configurations

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Need More Help?

If you need help selecting the right device or placing an order, contact your IT support team or the IT Partners Help Desk.

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Additional Information

• Internal procurement system: iBuy
• Vendor sites: Dell, Apple, CDW
• Device management platforms: Apple School Manager, Microsoft Autopilot

Search Criteria

• computer recommendations
• university laptop standards
• approved hardware list
• buying a work computer
• IT supported devices

Keywords

iBuy, Dell Pro 14 Plus, MacBook Pro M5, hardware standards, university IT equipment, Autopilot, Apple School Manager, monitor recommendation, Dell P3426WEB, keyboard mouse options