I. Introduction
Technology Services is pleased to provide recommendations and links to discounted pricing on hardware and software to Puget Sound students, faculty, and staff considering personal technology purchases. Faculty and staff should contact the Service Desk at 253.879.8585 or servicedesk@pugetsound.edu for policies and recommendations on technology purchases using university funds.
II. Computers
These recommended and minimum configurations are provided only as a guide. You may require a higher-end machine depending on your individual computing needs (e.g. doing significant video editing or graphics work on your computer). Please review our recommended specifications before shopping for a personal computer. The University of Puget Sound does not specifically endorse either the Windows or Macintosh platform or any specific brands of hardware or software.
Technology Services recommends that students do not use “beta” operating systems (operating systems that are still in the testing phase) on their personal computers. If you choose to install a beta operating system, Technology Services may be unable to resolve issues that you may encounter, including the inability to connect to campus systems, or the loss of data.
Apple
To access discounted prices on Apple products:
- Go to the Apple Store for Education.
- Select your computer and additional items.
- You will need to enter an existing Apple ID or create a new one.
Macintosh Platform
- Operating System
- Minimum: MacOS 13 Ventura
- Recommended: MacOS 15 Sequoia
- Memory/RAM:
- Minimum 8 GB
- Recommended 16GB
- Hard Drive Size:
- Wireless:
Dell
To access discounted prices from Dell,
Windows Platform
- Operating System:
- Minimum: Windows 10 Home
- Recommended: Windows 11 Pro
- Memory/RAM:
- Minimum: 8 GB
- Recommended: 16GB
- Hard Drive Size:
- Wireless:
III. Printers, Accessories, and Other Resources
The university provides printers in computer labs across campus, so it isn’t necessary or recommended for students to purchase and install a personal printer. If you bring a personal printer, purchase a printer cable for direct setup as wireless print setup will not be supported. Wireless printers can interfere with other devices trying to connect to campus systems.
Samsung Discounts
Discounts on Samsung products are available to you by using your Puget Sound email address. Sign up for the education discount program here.
The Equity Laptop Loaner Procedure ensures students facing economic hardship, specifically those who are unable to afford a computer, are provided with long-term computer loaners. More information can be found on our Technology Services Policies and Procedures page found here.
IV. Be Smart and Stay Legal
The Federal Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008 requires all colleges and universities to publicize legal alternatives for downloading music and video files If you illegally download copyrighted material, you may be subject to criminal and civil penalties. Paying for legal copies of the music and videos you like is a cheaper and safer option. See the extensive list of legal alternatives compiled by EDUCAUSE, a nonprofit association focused on IT in higher education.