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Desktop Services: Your office computer

What kind of computer will I have?

Calvin supports both Windows and Mac computers for faculty and staff offices Desktop computerand for Facilities with Technology. CIT provides standard software on faculty and staff Windows and Mac computers. When you first start at Calvin a computer will be assigned to you. If you have a computer preference (Windows, Mac) please tell your department chair or supervisor.

CIT approves requests for laptops based on pedagogical or business needs.

Current hardware standards

Most additional hardware requires an additional charge to your department and should be included in your department's technology budget. You should receive approval from your supervisor or department's chair prior to requesting additional hardware. Once approval is received, requests for additional hardware should be made by calling the HelpDesk at x6-8555.

How do I get a new computer?

Office computers are refreshed on a 3-year rotation. New Computer Deployment FAQ

My office is moving/I'm moving to a new department. What do I need to do?

What about pda's, usb storage-devices, CDs, digital cameras, etc?

CIT provides a complete standard computer system for each user which includes the standard keyboard and mouse. CIT strives to provide hardware that will meet the needs of the majority of users on campus. Computer speakers are not part of a standard computer system but are available upon request. Please contact the HelpDesk at x6-8555 or send e-mail to helpdesk@calvin.edu.

CIT recognizes that some users may need or prefer a different mouse or keyboard (small peripheral) than that which is provided. CIT does not provide funding from the CIT Technology budget for such small peripherals. It is the resposibility of the department to fund these purchases.

Small peripherals
CIT recognizes that some users may need or prefer another small peripheral (microphones, etc) that are not provided. CIT does not provide funding from the CIT Technology budget for such small peripherals. Personal digital assistants (PDA's, such as Palm Pilots), USB memory sticks, blank CD's and the like are also not funded by the technology budget.

It is the responsibility of the department to fund these purchases.

These small peripheral items may be purchased from a variety of sources such as the Calvin Store, or local computer businesses.

Non-Computer Items
Items for which CIT does not provide funding are copy machines, digital cameras, typewriters, fax machines, audio visual equipment, and scientific instruments.

Who pays for computer and printer consumables?

Each administrative and academic department is responsible for purchasing computer and printer consumables (computer CDs, DVDs, printer paper, printer labels, and printer toner cartridges. These supplies are available from the Calvin Store. Each department is responsible for all printing, copying, faxing, and telecommunication charges for departmental members.

Departments are responsible for purchasing and supporting departmental fax machines.

Using and taking care of your computer