Buying a new computer

Owned by Weronika Natalia Fydrych
Last updated: Oct 03, 2023 by Mary Burden
2 min read

All computing and related equipment purchases in Environment are handled by ETIS. We can and will assist our faculty and staff members in specifying, selecting, purchasing, and configuring new computers bought through a valid university Work Order for academic needs.

Purchasing

All clients who are ready to make a purchase should fill in a New Hardware Request for the new computer. 

Once ETIS has received the new computer, we will set it up as per the specifics in the request and then arrange delivery to the client. Newly ordered computers can take up to 3-4 weeks to arrive and be imaged with the required software.

Notes:

ETIS will work with the client to address specific requirements.

  • In order to ensure that we meet all university procurement procedures and licensing requirements, ETIS will only support computers that are purchased on a valid university account and that meet the campus network standards. 
  • Supported computers (currently Dell Canada & Apple Canada) will be configured to connect to the campus wired and/or wireless networks in order to be compliant with campus security policies. The university has negotiated pricing with Dell to get the lowest total cost available for Windows systems and can obtain educational pricing with Apple.
  • ETIS will manage your device so that deployed applications can be automatically updated, and Microsoft patches can be installed through SCCM. Having your device managed severely reduces any security concerns.
  • All new computers will be configured with a baseline standard set of software which includes a current university supported operating system and current version of Microsoft Office. Software not included in the baseline standard is installed when requested and properly licensed. ETIS will assist clients in the procurement of university licensed software when applicable.
  • When possible, ETIS will assist in the deployment of non-standard software. Clients will be asked to provide installation media/licensing for non-standard software.
  • ETIS will not install ArcGIS software on non-managed computers.

Important: If you choose to buy a computer not endorsed by ETIS, then any installation of software is your responsibility. University-owned computers are entitled to various software licensed through the Information Systems & Technology (IST) Webstore.

If you have technical issues, email env-jira@uwaterloo.ca. If you need help after hours or on the weekends, contact IST Service Desk.