Help Desk

• How to Get Help
  • When & Where is Help Available?
  • Self-Help Clinics
  • Report a Problem
• What Do We Support?
  • Software Standards
  • Hardware Standards
• Tips & Documentation
  • Accessibility
  • Backup Tips
  • Cable Info
  • Safe Computing
    • Disinfect & Protect
    • Password Security
    • Email Safety
    • What to Watch Out for On the Web
    • Beware of File Sharing
    • Phishing
  • Email Tips
    • Quota Management
    • Set Up Email Software to Access Simmons Account
    • Simmons Antispam Filter
    • Simmons Mailing Lists
    • Thunderbird FAQ
    • Webmail
  • File Server Tips
  • Mac OS Tips
  • Meeting Maker
  • Network
  • Personal Web Publishing
  • Phone & Voice Mail
  • Printing
    • Saving Paper (and Money)
    • Printing FAQ
    • Printers: technical info
  • Remote.simmons.edu Guide
  • Usernames & Passwords
  • Windows Tips
  • Wireless Info

Hardware Standards

Simmons' hardware standards for computer purchases are the same for personal and College purchases; see Recommended Computer Specifications for the most up-to-date list.

See also:

Hardware support for Simmons-owned equipment

Computers
Technology supports Simmons-owned computers (including mice, keyboards, and monitors) that are within the standard life cycle (see Technology Replacement Cycle), purchased from standard Simmons vendors (currently Apple and Dell).  Support includes troubleshooting hardware issues, working with manufacturers to do warranty repairs, and replacing computers that have had hardware failures or are at the end of their life cycle.  Technology provides more limited support for computers purchased from other vendors (our best effort), and ordinarily does not support computers outside of the life cycle.

Printers
Technology promotes the use of shared network printers, and using networked copiers as printers.  To save paper and money, please purchase duplex printers and print double-sided whenever possible. (link to printing page)

Technology supports Simmons-owned printers purchased from standard Simmons vendors (usually HP and occasionally Epson).  Full support is provided for networked printers shared by two or more faculty or staff, including troubleshooting hardware and network issues, servicing and replacing parts worn through regular (non-abusive) use, and replacing printers that have had hardware failures or are at the end of their life cycle (5-7 years, as funds allow).  Technology provides more limited support for printers purchased from other vendors and for local printers; departments are responsible for maintenance and replacement costs associated with local printers.  Whether the printer is networked or local, departments pay for paper, ink and toner. 

Handheld devices
Technology provides limited support for handheld devices. Technology will provide guidance to faculty and staff installing peripherals and related software, such as Palm Desktop. Technology will provide advice to faculty and staff having problems with PDAs about where to turn for technical assistance. 
Technology will install software required for PDA synchronization onto Simmons computers used by faculty and staff, and will configure such software for synchronization with Simmons tools, such as Meeting Maker, but can only provide limited advice if anything goes wrong.  The data stored on a PDA remains the responsibility of the user; please backup all of your data through frequent synchronization with a desktop computer.

Copiers and fax machines
For assistance with ordering, using or repairing any copier on campus, please contact Business Affairs.  For assistance with ordering a fax machine, please contact Purchasing and Accounts Payable; for hardware troubleshooting and repair, please consult the manufacturer.  For printing-enabled copiers and fax machines, Technology will assist you by installing and configuring the appropriate printer drivers.

Scanners and other computer peripherals
Technology installs software required for peripherals; for hardware troubleshooting and repair, please consult the manufacturer.