Q. Is there a central source or process for ordering computer equipment?
A. Yes. Although it is not required to purchase your computer through
the CFR Information Technology support staff, it is highly recommend
because it it gives you access to their extensive knowledge and experience.
Not only can the staff recommend a system just for you, but we also
have experience at getting orders through the sometimes-difficult ordering
process. Buying your computer through us also assures that you will
be getting equipment that can be supported by CFRIT staff. For assistance,
contact cfrhelp@u.washington.edu
Q. What type of equipment should I get?
A. Since our resources are limited, it would make it difficult to support
a variety of computer types (e.g. Apple, UNIX), therefore our preferred
type is a PC running Microsoft Windows Operating System. With the PC
we have better software support, meaning you'd be able to get software
to do most anything you'd like to do on your computer. This isn't always
the case with other machine types. Also, the PC accounts for 90% of
the installed base here at CFR. If you purchase another type of computer
be aware our knowledge is limited.
Q. Do you recommend any particular equipment?
A. Yes. We have a minimum standard specification that you can view
here. If you would like a spec sheet done
for your specific needs, please send e-mail to cfrhelp@u.washington.edu.
This general specification is designed to give you an idea of the minimum
requirements for your new computer's performance level. The CFRIT tech
support staff will be happy to help you customize an order to meet your
needs and walk you through the purchasing process.
Q. Do you have a preferred vendor?
A. Currently, our recommended computer dealer is Dell Computer Corporation.
Q. What is the benefit of purchasing through CFRIT?
You can be assured that through our experience and expertise, you will
be receiving dependable, reliable, high quality equipment. We procure
Dell computers and have Dell Certified technicians on our staff so that
you can have confidence in the knowledge that from conception to implementation
you will receive quality support.
In order to provide the level of service that you've come to expect,
we must maintain our focus in supporting specific hardware. Therefore,
if you do not purchase through us, you will be responsible for phoning
technical support and arranging times for warranty service work to be
done on your machine. In other words, you will be on your own to install
and configure your system if you do not purchase from CFRIT specifications.
Q. Can I change the configuration of the machine I'm purchasing?
A. You will work with a CFRIT staff person to incorporate all of the
features that you want in your new computer. The configuration will
be a combination of your requirements and our recommendations. For instance,
speakers, monitors, CD/DVD-ROMs, ZIP drives and the size of the hard
drive. There are many options for you to choose from; we can help.
Q. What if I decide to go it on my own?
A. Computer support resources at CFRIT are stretched very thin. Non-standard
computers create higher than normal support costs in time as well as
dollars. Because of this, expect a longer time to repair and be prepared
to seek external contract support.
Q. Now that you've answered all of my questions, where do I sign up?
A. Email cfrhelp@u.washington.edu.
or call Marc at (206) 685-7239
