WWS Computing Services supports computer equipment purchased with Princeton University funds only. All computer equipment including hardware, software, computer supplies and PDAs (personal digital assistants) must be purchased through the Computing Department at WWS to ensure that it meets University standards.

This policy is clearly defined in the University Guidelines for Non-Compensation Expenses.

It is WWSCS policy to replace WWS faculty and staff office computer equipment every three years, and printers and other peripheral equipment as needed. Student cluster computers are replaced on the same schedule. Centers should plan and budget for replacing computer equipment on the same schedule. WWSCS does not support or service department or center computer equipment that does not meet current university standards.

Since WWS participates in Princeton’s DeSC computer program, all office computer purchases will be the standard configurations and models recommended and supported by OIT. If faculty would like enhancements to the standard configuration, the cost of the add-ons will be charged to faculty research accounts. Enhancements to staff computers should be approved by unit managers and may be charged to unit or department accounts.

The current Faculty Computer Program replaces faculty computers on a four year basis. WWSCS replaces faculty computers every three years and redeploys FCP computers when available.

Centers are responsible for ensuring that incoming visitors are supplied with computer equipment that is appropriate to their needs and in compliance with current university standards. WWSCS will assist centers in planning for computer needs. All purchases must be made by WWSCS. Equipment purchased for centers will be charged to center accounts. WWSCS reserves the right to refuse to service or support equipment that is below the minimum hardware standard or inadequate for the needs of a particular user.

WWS does not supply computer equipment for faculty RAs. Computers and printers for RAs should be purchased from faculty research funds. WWSCS does not support or service equipment that does not meet current university standards.

WWSCS will support home computers that are purchased with University funds. This equipment must meet the same standards as office equipment. Secondary and home office computing equipment purchased with university funds, including faculty research funds, is the property of the university. All equipment must be returned if faculty or staff leave the University.

All University owned home computer equipment requiring service must be brought into the Computer Services department. WWSCS does not make house calls.

Service on faculty and administrative staff office, home or secondary computers is limited to the originally installed hardware and software or add-on hardware and software that has been authorized and installed by WWSCS, meets applicable university standards, is properly licensed and is employment related. WWSCS reserves the right to refuse to install or service hardware or software that is not employment-related.

Only WWSCS or OIT staff may install or service hardware and software on computers purchased with university funds. Faculty and administrative staff should not permit anyone other than WWSCS or OIT staff to service or install hardware or software on home office computers. WWSCS reserves the right to charge for the cost of fixing hardware or software problems caused by unauthorized installations on home office computers and laptops.