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MANAGEMENT
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Instructional and Information Technology Services (IITS)

Requesting a Non-Standard Computer

Most campus technology needs can be met using standard computer models offered through IITS. However, in certain cases, a custom configuration may be required to meet specific performance, compatibility, or research needs.
Examples may include:

  • A local workstation needed for high-end graphical processing (GPU) or high-performance computing (HPC).
  • A computer with unique storage, memory, or processing requirements for data analysis.
  • A device that must directly support a scientific instrument or specialized hardware.

Getting Started with a Custom Request: Custom requests must be reviewed by IITS to ensure they meet baseline requirements, comply with campus policies, and align with vendor restrictions.

  1. Initial Consultation
    Contact Nicholas Duarte in IITS to start the process. Be prepared to share your technical requirements. IITS will help generate an approved quote that meets campus guidelines.
  2. Once a formal quote is provided: All requestors are required to submit purchase requests through CSU Buy (P2P). Reqs will follow a series of approvals within P2P and once that process is completed, the respective vendor will receive a PO to begin processing the order. Please refer to Procurement's documentation regarding P2P for more information.
  3. Delivery and Setup: Once a PO is released to the vendor and it is delievered to the campus, it will be routed automatically to IITS for inventory and configuration (allow up to 5 business days).  Following these steps, the device will then  released to the requesting individual or department.

CSU Policy

  • Computers and other technology must be purchased through an approved vendor that has an existing MEA or current contract with the CSU system.
  • Devices must adhere to CSU Information Security Policy, therefore, computer requests must meet the minimum standards outlined in the above policy (Business-class computers, Enterprise Management System (EMS) capable devices, encryption, security patching, and endpoint protection services).  For this reason, IITS recommends standard models to simplify the procurement process.
  • Software installations must be requested and completed by IITS.  Refer to Administrator Privileges site & Adjustments Page for additional policy information. 
  • All devices must include a warranty that runs through the campus lifecycle, and be under support by IITS per the above CSU configuration standards. Review Support Costs & Details.
  • IITS will waive support costs if the purchase is intended for state-side faculty research (IITS is required by CSU policy to invoice for support costs for grant fund/sponsored projected funded initiatives).
  • Computers approaching 5–6 years of age must be evaluated for replacement, as they may no longer support essential security patches or OS updates. Continued use beyond this period requires approval from the Campus Information Security Office. Devices no longer in use should be returned to IITS for secure disposal.