Computing Devices - Overview, Purpose & Expectations

Overview & Purpose

This guide is designed to:

1. Provide Device Information: Understand your issued system’s specs and capabilities.
2. Market the Modern Computing Model: Promote our shift to flexible, efficient laptop-first work environments (docking station w/ laptop acting as a replacement for desktop - this page will explain in more detail what this specifically entails).
3. Set User Expectations: Ensure transparency around what to expect and where exceptions apply. 

Exceptions & Workflow Considerations

We recognize that not all workflows fit this model. Desktop solutions may still be approved for graphics-intensive tasks, lab setups, or highly specialized software. If this directly applies to you, an exception can be made with support from your Vice Chancellor. 

Why This Modern Model?

We’re evolving from the traditional desktop + laptop combo to a laptop + docking station model. 

This change:

 Reduces overall costs by issuing a single device.

 Improves flexibility for remote/hybrid work.

 Simplifies IT support and maintenance.

Increases IT security by reducing the campus computer footprint.

This setup delivers desktop-like power through docking stations while retaining the portability of laptops, perfect for the majority of campus roles.

Installed Software Provided (User-Case Basis; Subject to Change)

Windows OS Devices:

• 7-Zip 
• Adobe Acrobat 
• Clipchamp
• Dropbox
• Firefox
• FortiClient VPN
• Google Chrome
• Google Drive
• Lenovo Vantage
• Microsoft Edge
• MS Code (Visual Studio Code)
• Ninja One
• Notepad
• Office 2021 / 2024 (Includes all Microsoft Software)
• OneDrive
• Sentinel One
• Spirion
• VLC Media Player
• Zoom Workplace

macOS Devices:

• Adobe Acrobat  
• Dropbox
• Firefox
• FortiClient/Fortinet 
• Google Chrome
• Google Docs
• Google Drive
• iCloud
• Malwarebytes
• Office 2021 / 2024 (Includes all Microsoft Software)
• Ninja One
• OneDrive
• Safari
• Sentinel One 
• Spirion
• Zoom Workplace

 Device Options & Specifications (Laptops, Docking Stations, & Monitors)

1. 13-Inch MacBook Air (M2 – Midnight)

• Processor: Apple M2 Chip (8-core CPU | 4 performance cores & 4 efficiency cores).

• Operating System: macOS

• RAM: 16 GB Unified Memory

• Storage: 256 GB SSD Storage

• Screen Size/Display: 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display (2560 x 1664)

• Wireless: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax - focusing on increased efficiency, capacity, and reliability).

• Charger: 30w USB-C Power Adapter 

• Ports: 2x Thunderbolt / USB 4, Headphone Jack

• Camera: 1080p FaceTime HD camera w/ advanced image signal processor w/ computational video 

• Color: Midnight

• Extras: Lightweight, ideal for general productivity, creative workflows, and mobility.

 Includes:

Aukey CB-C81 9-in-2 USB-C Hub (Docking Station - Computing Power of a Desktop)

• Model: CB-C81 

• Interfaces (Interaction points between devices and the system): 

• 2 USB 3.1 Gen 1 USB-A data ports

• USB 3.1 Gen 1 USB-C data port

• USB Power Delivery pass-through charging port

• 2 HDMI ports

• Ethernet port

• SD & MicroSD card slots

• Connector: USB-C

• Power Delivery Input: DC 20V 5A (up to 100W)

• USB / USB-C Data Transfer Speed: 5 Gbps

• HDMI Display Resolution: 4k @ 60hz

• Supported Network Speeds: 10/100/1,000 Mbps 

• Card storage capacity: 2TB

• Card Data Transfer Speed: 5 Gbps

User Manual & Guide -

​​https://manuals.plus/aukey/usb-c-hub-manual

2. Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G6 ABP

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 7530U (6 cores, 2.0 GHz base)

• Operating System: Windows 11 Pro

• RAM: 16 GB

• Storage: 512 GB SSD

• Screen Size/Display: 14” Touchscreen WUXGA (1920 x 1200)

• Graphics: AMD Radeon Integrated

• Wireless: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax - focus on increase in efficiency, capacity, and reliability).

• IPS: In-plane switching (Delivers exceptional color accuracy, wide viewing angles, and consistent image quality).

• Camera: Front Camera/Webcam 

• Color: Arctic Gray

• Extras: Energy Efficient, Touchscreen flexibility, 8+ Hour battery life, Noise-cancellation technology input and audio features.

Includes:

ThinkPad Universal USB-C Docking Station 90W - (Computing Power of a Desktop)

• Model: ThinkPad USB-C Dock Gen 2

• Interfaces (Interaction points between devices and the system): 

• 2 DisplayPorts

• HDMI Port

• 2 USB 2.0 Ports

• Three USB 3.1 Gen 2 (10 Gbps,  1 x always on-charing)

• USB-C (10 Gbps, 5V, 3A)

• Gigabit Ethernet Port

• Audio Port (Stereo/Microphone combo)

• Connector: USB-C

• Power Delivery Input: DC 90W
• Maximum Power for Laptop Charging: 60W
• Maximum Number of External Monitors: 3
• Maximum Resolution / Refresh Rate: 3840x2160 @ 60Hz

User Manual & Guide -

https://download.lenovo.com/consumer/options/sp41b88172_en.pdf

4. Lenovo ThinkCentre M75q G5 (Special Order)

• OS: Windows 11 Pro 64

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 PRO 8700GE Processor
• RAM: 16 GB DDR5-5200MHz Memory
• Storage: 512 GB SSD M.2 2280 PCle Gen4 TLC Opal Storage
• Integrated Graphics
• Integrated Ethernet
• Gigabit Ethernet
• Realtek Wi-Fi 6 RTL8852BE 2x2 AX & Bluetooth 5.1
• USB Keyboard & Mouse
• 3 Year On-Site Warranty