Faculty and Staff Device Requirements

Instructors and staff need adequate technology to fully access online resources and effectively participate in academic activities and work. 

Technical Specifications for Devices

Devices must be portable, sufficiently up to date, and have adequate memory and storage so that they can run the current version of their operating systems. This allows them to both perform suitably and be properly patched, allowing them to operate effectively and securely both inside and outside of the UConn environment. Below are the minimum technical specifications for computers:

  • Windows devices: Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 Processor released within the past 4 years (i7 or Ryzen 7 preferred)

  • Apple devices: M1 or newer Apple silicon

  • 8GB of RAM (16 GB preferred)

  • macOS 14.X or Windows 11

  • 256 GB SSD Hard Drive (512 GB preferred)

  • Wireless Networking Adapter (Wi-Fi capable)

  • Camera and Microphone

Data Encryption Requirement

The State of Connecticut requires that all data on state-owned computers be encrypted. When purchasing a PC, the device must have a TPM chip and must be encrypted. Older computers and budget models lack a TPM chip and cannot be encrypted. Apple computers do not require a TPM chip but must be encrypted.

ITS supports computers from Dell and Apple. Buying a device from another manufacturer may limit the ability for ITS to assist. The University has support agreements with both Dell and Apple as well as on-campus hardware repair/support at the Bookstore for these brands. If you have any questions, please contact the Technology Support Center at 860-486-4357 or techsupport@uconn.edu.

Warranty

  • ITS standard is to purchase a minimum of a 3-year warranty on all new computers and tablets. 

  • Laptop computers are purchased with Dell Accidental Damage Protection / Apple AppleCare+.

  • Dell warranties are ProSupport with next-day parts and service.

  • iPads are ordered with AppleCare+ 3 years.

Printers

Whenever possible, printers should be centralized (connected to the network) and leased through Connecticut Business Systems. Leased printers include toner and maintenance. When factoring in the lifetime cost of a printer, it is less expensive to lease a printer.

Recommendations

If your department or unit participates in the PC Refresh Program, you should talk to your local IT professional or fiscal administrator to request a purchase.

You can buy all of these recommended items through the vendors at HuskyBuy. Please click below to expand the table to see the ITS-recommended equipment in each category.

Device

Description

 

Device

Description

 

Laptop: Windows

Log in to HuskyBuy and choose the Dell Punchout.

Dell Latitude
2 in 1 or Clamshell Laptop in 13” or 14” screen sizes.

 

image-20240422-175752.png

Laptop: macOS

MacBook Air 13” or MacBook Pro 14”

image-20240422-175902.png

Monitor

Dell 24” and 27” USB C Hub Monitors

Monitor

Dell 34” USB C Monitor

Monitor

Dell 24” and 27” Video Conferencing Monitors

Headset

Lenovo 100 USB Stereo Headset or Logitech H390 USB Headset

Webcam

Logitech C920 / C930

Accessory

USB C → Ethernet Adapter

Accessory

USB A → Ethernet Adapter

Accessory

Mac USB C → HDMI and USB A

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