Computer Replacement Cycle
Most college computer equipment is replaced on a regular cycle. The goals of the replacement plan are to:- assure that appropriate computing resources are available in public and departmental computing facilities, classrooms, and college offices to support the mission of the institution
- assure that each faculty and staff member who uses computing resources in his or her position has a computer of sufficient capability to fulfill his/her responsibilities
- implement minimum standards for computing equipment on campus
- encourage planning, cost-effective installation of new equipment and disposal of old equipment
Replacement schedules will be distributed to the NHC-TAC for review and consultation. Hardware configurations for new equipment are prepared regularly; individuals with equipment scheduled for replacement are notified of those details. The new equipment is ordered as funds become available.
To develop a 3-5 year replacement cycle computers are divided into the following categories:
- A - Replaced every 3 years with a new computer. Configured for those using or supporting specialized applications that are system resource intensive. Examples of such applications include desktop program compilers, editing digital video, and performing statistical analysis on large data sets.
- B - Replaced every 4 years with a new computer. For those primarily running the standard applications and the occasional use of specialized applications. This is the standard replacement cycle at Lone Star College-North Harris and in the District.
- C - Replaced every 2 years with a three-year old machine. For those running a subset of the standard applications and for student intern and general use workstations.
Each computer in the replacement plan is designated as being in one of these groups (at the time it is replaced) with a tentative date indicated for replacement. Generally, individuals will have one college computer provided for them on the replacement plan. By the nature of their responsibilities, some individuals may need to have more than one computer to accomplish their responsibilities - for example, if they must use both Macintosh and Windows platforms in their work. In these cases, department heads/supervisors may request from the appropriate officer of the college that an exception be made.
Departmental Equipment
All college computers are maintained in a central inventory. At the time a computer enters the inventory the replacement cycle, if any, is designated. Old equipment is returned to the OTS department for reassignment or disposal.
Grant-Funded Equipment
Individuals pursuing grants for computing equipment should discuss their plans with the Dean of Technology and Planning, as part of the budgeting process. Computing equipment that is acquired under grants will enter the inventory and be upgraded on a regular replacement cycle only if approved at the time of the application for the grant.
