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 the Supervisor, Department Chair, and IT Director Approval.

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.

 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 - focus on increase in 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 - will act as a replacement for desktop)

• Model: CB-C81 

• Interfaces (Interaction points between devices and 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: 5Gbps

• HDMI Display Resolution: 4k @ 60hz

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

• Card storage capacity: 2TB

• Card Data Transfer Speed: 5Gbps

User Manual & Guide -

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

(Will include a picture of the laptop + docking stations together after showcasing products individually here, with one monitor attached)

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) – Connect up to 3 displays, 6 USB ports, Ethernet, HDMI, DisplayPort (Will act as a replacement for desktop)

• Model: ThinkPad USB-C Dock Gen 2

• Interfaces (Interaction points between devices and 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

(Will include a picture of the laptop + docking stations together after showcasing products individually here, with one monitor attached)

Monitors 

(Will include a few of the best options we have available in stock - will have to double-check for reference on what that specifically entails)