Computer Operations (CO) manages the UCIT funds for replacement of all desktop
computers. UCIT funds may only be used to purchase replacements for existing
equipment. New faculty positions must have computers provided by the School
of Engineering (SoE) or purchased from start-up funds first before the systems
can be entered into the Engineering desktop resource database for future replacement.
The effort is made to upgrade all faculty desktop resources after they have
reached their third year of age. At the time of the upgrade, CO notifies the
faculty member of the upcoming change and makes every effort to assist with
the transition of file and reloading programs as necessary. In many cases faculty
members want to add hardware to the standard configuration. This is coordinated
with CO staff and paid for with faculty or department funds as arranged.
The computer listed as a desktop resource must be turned in before or when
the replacement computer is installed. Monitors and CPUs are treated independently
within the SoE. The transition has been made to LCD flat panel monitors and
it is hoped that they will last substantially longer than the four years allocated
to CPUs.
The rules and guidelines for UCIT Fund Desktop resource expenses are fully
adhered to by the SoE under the guidance of CO. CO is also advised by the S0E
CPPC committee who helps determine how UCIT money is spent within the confines
of UCIT rules and regulations.
At present, one desktop resource per faculty member may be supported using
UCIT funds. The only exception to this rule is related to department chairs
and associate deans. The amount of money allocated for desktop computer equipment
per faculty member is determined by UCIT regulations, available money, and CPPC
agreement. To date only the CPU and monitor may be supported using desktop funds.
Personal printers, scanners and other peripheral devices are not supported with
UCIT replacement funds at the present time.
Faculty members are those listed as paid SMU faculty members by the SoE’s
financial office. They do not include Research Assistants, Teaching Assistants
or any other temporary or visiting employee. Computers for the offices of department
chairs and associate deans are provided for under the staff policy.
