Engineering Network Services - CSU
Purchasing Computing EquipmentAll purchases of computer hardware should be coordinated with ENS staff. Any CSU computing equipment purchased through ENS will be supported at no extra cost. Computing equipment purchased through other channels will be supported at the rate of $39/hour. (Sorry, we do not service personal computers.) It is understood that there are a broad array of computing needs in our college and that no single solution is adequate. Checking with ENS prior to ordering simply ensures a mutual understanding of the support available for a purchased item. Jump to: Thin Client Service, Desktops, Macs, Notebooks, Servers, Used Equipment, Personal Purchases Purchase a Desktop ComputerThere are two desktop computing solutions in the College of Engineering: Thin clients and traditional desktop computers.
Purchase a Notebook Computer
Purchase a ServerContact ENS to purchase a server. Depending on whether you wish to participate in the college compute cluster, or need a standalone server, we want to make sure the system purchased is just right for your needs. Purchase a PrinterENS highly recommends coordinating the purchase of any printer or peripheral device with an ENS Staff member prior to making a purchase. ENS staff have researched and identified specific printer models that are known to be reliable, budget-friendly, and work well on our networks. These ENS-approved models are listed on the Printer Purchasing Policy page. Purchase Surplus ItemsDoes your department or research lab need a gently-used computer or printer? We do not generally stock new items for sale, but we do make available any excess new or used items. These items are not available for purchase by individuals, due to state law. Read the description carefully to determine the condition of the item. View items ENS currently has available for purchase with CSU funds. Personal PurchasesStudents and employees may purchase off of the college desktop contract with personal funds, but no other equipment or software is available for personal purchase from ENS. Personal purchases should be pursued through CSU RAMtech, the CSU Bookstore, or off-campus vendors. |
Thin clients provide access to the Windows, Linux, and Solaris* operating systems. Thin client sessions are mobile and may be accessed from any of the over 600 Engineering thin clients on campus. Consuming 15 watts at max, they are very environmentally friendly and, being small, are easy on desk space. 
The college computer contract provides a traditional Windows desktop computer at a great price. ENS is responsible for all hardware repair and troubleshooting the operating system for three years. 
For Mac desktop computers, make sure that the programs you will need run natively on OS X. Many Engineering software programs don't run on Mac OS X. While emulation options such as Parallels and Bootcamp do exist, they have their own limitations and are not a full replacement for a Windows based PC. Please 
For notebooks, please see the 
This document last modified Wednesday April 04, 2012