Employee Laptop Initiative

The Employee Laptop Initiative is currently paused while ITS addresses some critical issues and  avoids interruption of business processes.  The distribution of laptops will continue once the issues have been resolved.  A notice will be sent to the campus when the rollout is expected to resume. 
 

FAQs  

 
Why are we replacing employees computers? 
The university has begun this program to support the move to a mobile-capable workforce, ensure all employees have an up-to-date primary computer, comply with secure computing measures, and to standardize equipment for more efficient support.  The program is intended to be implemented on a four-year refresh cycle. 
 
Who is eligible to get a new laptop? 
All full-time employees (permanent and temporary), and those part-time employees who may need to work remotely. 
 
Am I required to complete the Employee Laptop Initiative survey?

YES.  By completing the survey, you will provide important information to the deployment team, including your preference of a Windows or Mac laptop, your location, primary contact information, and current computer identification.

If you have not already done so, click here to complete the survey. 

 
What if I prefer a MAC?

The current Phase is focused on distributing Windows 11 laptops.  Macs will not be distributed until Phase II (timeline to be determined). 

You will still need to complete the survey to designate your preference, your location, primary contact information, and current computer identification. 
 
How do I get an appointment? 
After you have completed the Employee Laptop Initiative survey, your information will be used to place you in a grouping of other employees for efficient distribution.  When the group is complete, you will be sent an invitation from Signup Genius to create your own appointment time.

Important Appointment Information

  • Appointments take from 30-90 minutes. Times are shorter if your data has been saved to OneDrive.
  • You MUST be present at the appointment.
  • You MUST have your current computer with you.
  • You MUST be on time for the start of the appointment.
 
When I get my new laptop, can I keep my current computer? 
The Program is intended to REPLACE your current primary use computer.  During your appointment, the technician will ensure that data on your old computer is available on the new laptop.  The old computer will then be removed and assessed for reimaging, repurposing, or surplus.

What are the specs for the new Windows laptop and accessories? 
ITS considered current and future computing requirements that are likely for the majority of university employees. 
  • Dell Latitude 7530 – 15.6" Non-Touch display 
  • Windows 11 Enterprise 
  • 12th Generation Intel vPro Enterprise with Intel Core i7-1265U (10Core, 12 MB Cache, 12 Threads, up to 4.80 GHz)  
  • 32GB 3200MHz DDR4, Non-ECC, Integrated 
  • 512GB PCIe NVMe Solid State Drive 
  • Integrated camera with privacy shutter 
  • Integrated microphone 
  • 2 x Dell 24” monitors 
  • Dell Thunderbolt Docking station 
  • Dell Pro Wireless Keyboard & Mouse 
 
What software is already installed on the new laptops?
Each laptop comes pre-installed with the following software. Any additional software requirements must be noted when submitting the online survey.
  • 7-Zip
  • Adobe Acrobat DC
  • Adobe Creative Cloud
  • Cisco AnyConnect – VPN
  • FileZilla
  • Microsoft
    • Edge
    • OneDrive
    • Word
    • Excel
    • Outlook
    • Power Point
    • Project
  • Google Chrome
  • Mozilla Firefox
  • Zoom
 
Will employees be able to request specific laptop configurations such as extra memory or disk space? 
Please refer to the new laptop specifications above.
The laptops have been configured to allow for above average usage and will accommodate a great majority of employees.  Where there are instances of specific requirements exceeding the configuration available on these laptop, special requests will need to be submitted. 
 
What if my current monitors are larger than the new monitors? 
You may keep your current monitors as long as they function with the new equipment. 
 
Can I get larger monitors? 
All of the new monitors are 24”.  If the employee requires larger monitors, a request can be submitted and will be evaluated on need, funding, and availability. 
 
What if I just got a new laptop? 
If the laptop is less than two years old, you will keep the same laptop unless it does not conform to security standards or it does not meet the new specifications for campus computers. 
 
What if I work remotely 100%? 
Employees working remotely will also receive a new laptop.  ITS will be in contact with the employee to make arrangements for setup and distribution.  
 
What will happen to my current computer upon replacement? 
Your current computer will be assessed for reimaging and repurposing or surplus.
 
Where can I get training to prepare for my new laptop and Windows 11?
Training is provided by ITTD through LinkedIn Learning. Click here for more information.
 
Where can I find additional information?
The following resources are available to provide additional information to prepare you to use your new laptop.
 
What if I have additional questions?
The Help Desk is available to answer additional questions at helpdesk@ncat.edu or (336) 334-7195, or by submitting a ticket at https://aggiehelp.ncat.edu.