Recommended Hardware

Buying the right computer, printer or other technologies is an important part of effectively working on the campus network. OTS provides recommendations for offices, classrooms and labs to ensure the best price on an enterprise computer that meets your needs and works well with campus products and services.

Types of Recommended Hardware 

On this page you will find OTS recommendations on the following types of hardware:

  • Desktop computers
  • Laptop computers
  • Tablets
  • Other than Recommended Computers, Laptops and Tablets
  • Personal computers
  • Webcams
  • Speakers and headphones
  • Scanners
  • PowerPoint clickers
  • Recommended Printers
  • Copiers
  • Smartphones

Choosing Hardware

Before choosing a device, contact the OTS Faculty/Staff Help Center for:

  • help with technical questions
  • information on a particular model
  • answers to purchasing questions
  • general hardware guidance

Once you have selected the device that meets your needs, OTS will help with your purchase.

Setting up Hardware

When the computer arrives, contact the Faculty/Staff Help Center or submit a TechHelp service request to have your computer set up. OTS installs and configures the computer to ensure it works on the campus network.

Please note

Departments Identified as Working with Protected or Confidential Data Classifications:

Clients who work in an identified department are required to use a recommended computer so it can be fully managed and protected.

Personal Computers for Home Use:

Dell and Apple offer educational discounts to students, faculty, and staff when buying a personal computer.

 Recommended Dell Windows Desktop Computers

OPTIPLEX 7070 SMALL FORM FACTOR
  • Standard Configuration1
  • Intel Core i7-9700 (6 Cores/12MB/8T/up to 4.8GHz/65W)
  • 16GB Memory
  • M.2 256GB PCIe NVMe Class 40 Solid State Drive
  • Dual Monitor Support
  • Internal Speaker2
  • 8X DVD+/-RW 9.5mm Optical Disk Drive
  • Dell USB Keyboard and Mouse
  • Three-Year Warranty plus Three-Year NBD On-Site Service
  • Systems will be configured with Microsoft Windows 10 Enterprise 64-bit
  • Dell 24" Monitor for Video-Conferencing with built-in Webcam

1 The Dell Optiplex 7070 desktop is also available in other sizes, including desktop tower and ultra-small form factor.

2 The internal computer speaker is not able to produce adequate sound. If you purchase the monitor, it contains a noise-canceling mic and two 5W integrated speakers for video conferencing. If you need speakers you will need to purchase them separately.

OPTIPLEX 7470 ALL-IN-ONE DESKTOP (Non-Touch Screen)
  • Standard Configuration1
  • 7470 All-In-One (AIO) 23.8, FHD Non-Touch with Camera, Integrated Graphics, Bronze PSU 
  • Intel Core™ i7-9700 (8 Cores/12MB/8T/up to 4.8GHz/65W)
  • 16GB Memory
  • M.2 256GB Class 40 Solid State Drive
  • Internal Speaker2
  • 8x DVD+/-RW 9.5mm Optical Disk Drive
  • Dell USB Keyboard and Mouse
  • Three-Year Limited Warranty plus Three-Year NBD On-Site Service
  • Systems will be configured with Microsoft Windows 10 Enterprise 64-bit

1 The 7470 AIO is also available with a touch screen as an optional configuration.  The optional configuration requires departmental contribution if part of the campus Computer Trade-Up Program or Tenure Track initial purchase through the Office of the Provost.

2 The internal speaker is not able to produce adequate sound. If you need speakers, you will need to purchase them separately.

 

Recommended Apple Desktop Computers

IMAC, 21.5"
  • Standard Configuration
  • 2.3GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor, Turbo Boost up to 3.6GHz
  • 8GB 2133MHz memory, configurable up to 16GB
  • Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640
  • 1920X1080 sRGB Display
  • Hard Drive: 256GB SSD Storage
  • Two Thunderbolt 3 Ports
  • Mouse Options: Apple Magic Mouse 2, wired mouse (required with Magic  Keyboard with numeric keypad) or Magic Trackpad (at an additional cost)
  • Keyboard Options: Apple Magic Keyboard, English (no additional cost) or Apple Magic Keyboard with numeric keypad, English (add $30)
  • Three-Year AppleCare Protection (Required)
  • Optional: Apple USB SuperDrive (DVD/CD Player) additional cost
  • Systems will be configured with the University Standard Configuration Including: Current Mac OS X, Current Microsoft Office for Macs
MAC PRO
  • High-End Configuration1
  • 3.5GHz 6-Core Intel Xeon E5 Processor
  • 16GB 1866MHz DDR3 ECC Memory
  • Dual AMD D500 with 3GB GDDR5 VRAM each
  • 256GB PCIe-Based Flash Storage
  • Three-Year AppleCare Protection (Required)
  • Optional: Monitor, Mouse, Keyboard, SuperDrive
  • Systems will be configured with University Standard Configuration Including: Current Mac OS X, Current Microsoft Office for Macs

1 The high-end configuration requires departmental contribution if part of the campus Computer Trade-Up Program or Tenure Track initial purchase through the Office of the Provost.

2 Monitor, keyboard, mouse, and USB external SuperDrive (DVD/CD player/recorder) are NOT included, and must be purchased at additional costs.

 

Recommended Dell Windows Laptops

LATITUDE 5300 (13") / LATITUDE 5400 (14") / LATITUDE 5500 (15") 
  • Full-Size Laptop1
  • 15" and 14" Intel® Core™ i5-8365U Processor (4 Cores/6MB/1.6GHz/15W) 13" 7th Gen Intel® Core™ i7-8665U (4 Core/8MB/1.9GHz/15W
  • Integrated Intel UHD 620 Graphics
  • 16GB Memory
  • M.2 256GB SATA Class 35 Solid State Drive
  • No DVD, External Option Available
  • Intel Dual-Band Wireless-AC 9560 + Bluetooth 5.0 
  • Primary 4-cell 68W/HR ExpressCharge Capable Battery
  • 15.6" FHD WVA (1920 x 1080) Anti-Glare Non-Touch Camera & Microphone, WLAN/WWAN Capable; 14" FHD WVA (1920 x 1080) Anti-Glare Non-Touch, Camera & Microphone, WLAN/WWAN Capable; 13.3" FHD WVA (1920 x 1080) Anti-Glare Non-Touch, Super Low Power, Camera & Microphone, WLAN/WWAN Capable
  • Three-Year Limited Warranty plus Three-Year NBD On-Site Service
  • Three-Year CompleteCare Accidental Damage Protection
  • Three-Year Absolute DDS (Laptop Recovery Service) 
  • Optional: Monitor, External DVD drive, Keyboard, Mouse, Docking Station, Laptop Bag
  • Systems with be configured with Windows 10 64-bit
  • Starting Weight: 13" - 2.73 lbs.; 14" - 3.26 lbs.; 15" - 4.03 lbs.

1 Laptops require departmental contribution if part of the campus Computer Trade-Up Program or Tenure Track initial purchase through the Office of the Provost.

LATITTUDE 7400 (14") ULTRABOOK
  • Slim Design Laptop1
  • Intel® Core™ i5-8365U Processor (4 Core/6MB/1.6GHz/15W)
  • 16GB Memory
  • M.2 256GB SATA Class 40 Solid State Drive
  • No DVD, External Option Available
  • USB C-Ethernet Adapter Required
  • Intel Dual-Band Wireless-AC 9560 + Bluetooth 5.0 
  • 4-cell 60W/HR Express Charge Capable Battery
  • 14" FHD (1920 x 1080) Anti-Glare, Non-Touch, Camera & Mic, WLAN Capable
  • Three-Year Limited Warranty plus Three-Year NBD On-Site Service
  • Three-Year CompleteCare Accidental Damage Protection
  • Three-Year Absolute DDS (Laptop Recovery Service) 
  • Optional: Monitor, Keyboard, Mouse, External DVD Drive, Docking Station, Laptop Bag
  • Systems will be configured with Windows 10 64-bit
  • Starting weight: 2.99 lbs. 

1 Laptops require departmental contribution if part of the campus Computer Trade-Up Program or Tenure Track initial purchase through the Office of the Provost.

 

Recommended Apple Laptops

APPLE MACBOOK PRO (13")
  • Standard Configuration1
  • 2.3GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor, Turbo Boost up to 3.6GHz
  • 8GB 2133MHz LPDDR3 Memory
  • 256GB SSD Storage
  • Intel Iris Graphics 640
  • Built-in Battery (10 Hours)
  • Force to Touch Trackpad
  • Belkin USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter (Required) 
  • USB-C to USB Adapter (Required)
  • Backlit Keyboard (English with User's Guide)
  • Two Thunderbolt 3 Ports
  • Three-Year AppleCare Protection (Required)
  • Three-Year Absolute DDS (Laptop Recovery Service) 
  • Optional: Carrying case at additional cost 
  • Optional: Apple USB SuperDrive DVD/CD Player with Belkin USB-C to USB Adapter at additional cost
  • Systems will be configured with University Standard Configuration Including: Current Mac OS X, Current Microsoft Office for Macs
  • Weight: 3.02 lbs.

1 Laptops require departmental contribution if part of the campus Computer Trade-Up Program or Tenure Track initial purchase through the Office of the Provost.

APPLE MACBOOK PRO WITH RETINA DISPLAY (15")
  • Optional Configuration1
  • 2GHz quad-core Intel Core i7 processor, Turbo Boost up to 3.4GHz
  • 16GB 1600MHz Memory
  • 256GB SSD Storage
  • Radeon Pro 555 with 2GB Memory Graphics
  • Four Thunderbolt 3 Ports
  • Touch Bar and Touch ID
  • Backlit Keyboard (English with User Guide)
  • Three-Year AppleCare Protection (Required)
  • Three-Year Absolute DDS (Laptop Recovery Service) 
  • Belkin USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter (Required)
  • USB-C to USB Adapter (Required)
  • Optional: SuperDrive, Carrying Case
  • Systems will be configured with university standard configuration including: Current Mac OS X, Current Microsoft Office for Macs
  • Weight: 4.02lbs.

1 Laptops require departmental contribution if part of the campus Computer Trade-Up Program or Tenure Track initial Purchase through the Office of the Provost.

Recommended Windows Tablet 

MICROSOFT SURFACE PRO
  • Various Purchasing Options1
  • 12.3 inch 2736 x 1824 (267 PPI) PixelSense Display
  • 7th Gen Intel i5 or i7
  • 8GB or 16GB Memory
  • 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB Solid State Drive
  • HD Front and Rear-Facing Cameras with Microphones
  • Surface Pen
  • Ports: Full-Size USB 3.0, MicroSD Card Reader, Headset Jack, Mini Display Port, Cover Port, Charging Port, Surface Connect
  • USB C-Ethernet Adapter (Required - No Ethernet Port)
  • 3-Year Business Warranty with Accidental Damage Coverage (Recommended)
  • Three-Year Absolute DDS (Laptop Recovery Service) 
  • Optional: Type Cover (Keyboard), Docking station, Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter, Carrying Case, Accident Protection
  • Starting Weight: 1.73lbs.

1 Departments can order a Surface Pro through OTS, the online Microsoft Store, a Microsoft retail store, or from another retail store. Business Warranty with Accidental Damage Protection only available when purchased through OTS.

Recommended Apple Tablets

IPAD PRO
  • 12.9" LED-Backlit Multi-Touch Display
  • A9X Third-Generation Chip with 64-bit Architecture
  • Compared to A7: CPU is 2.5x Faster, Graphics is 5x Faster
  • M9 Motion Coprocessor
  • 32GB or 128GB Storage
  • FaceTime HD and iSight Cameras with Microphones
  • Ports: Lightning and Smart Connector
  • Weight: 1.57 to 1.59lbs.
IPAD AIR
  • 9.7" LED-Backlit Multi-Touch Display
  • A7 Chip with 64-bit Architecture (Air) or A8X Second-Generation Chip with 64-bit Architecture
  • Compared to A7: CPU is 1.4x Faster, Graphics is 2.5x Faster
  • M7 (Air) or M8 (Air2) Motion Coprocessor
  • 16GB, 32GB (Air Only), 64GB (Air2 Only), or 128GB (Air2 Only) Storage
  • FaceTime HD and iSight Cameras with Microphones
  • Ports: Lightning Connector
  • Weight: .96 to 1lb.
IPAD MINI
  • 7.9" LED-Backlit Multi-Touch Display
  • A7 Chip with 64-bit Architecture (Mini2) or A8 (Mini4) Second-Generation Chip with 64-bit Architecture
  • Compared to A7: CUP is 1.3x Faster, Graphics is 1.6x Faster
  • M7 (Mini2) to M8 (Mini4) Motion coprocessor
  • 16GB, 32GB (Mini2 Only), 64GB (Mini4 Only), or 128GB (Mini4 Only) Storage
  • FaceTime HD and iSight Cameras with Microphones
  • Ports: Lightning Connector
  • Weight: .67 to .75lb.

Other than Recommended Computers

The Office of Technology Services (OTS) understands that TU faculty and staff sometimes need computers that are not included on our recommended hardware list. Overall, OTS support will be limited, and the department will have additional responsibilities. Purchasing other than recommended computers, laptops, and tablets (PDF) is a department decision and will require department approval. Be sure to review the recommended minimum baseline specifications and work with OTS before purchasing to ensure the best possible experience and performance.

Webcams

The following list of recommended webcams are based on a manufacturer and product line. Multiple model options are available within the product line. You can purchase any of these webcams from local retail stores or from online retail websites.

ADVANCED WEBCAM
  • Logitech HD Pro or Business Webcam
  • Max Video Resolution (pixels): 1920x1080
  • Sensor (megapixels): 1080p
  • Max Frame Rate: 30 fps
  • Microphone: Built-in
  • Focus: Autofocus
  • Max Still Capture Resolution (megapixels): 10Mp
  • Operating System: Windows 7 or Windows 8 (64-bit)
  • Manufacturer Website

Note: Some laptops and monitors come with webcams and microphones in them. It is advised that you test them out to see if you need to purchase an external webcam. External webcams will not work well or work at all with tablet computers, e.g. iPad, Surface, etc.

Speakers and Headphones

You need to purchase external speakers and headphones separately if your work requires them. The standard configuration for computers does not include these items. We do not recommend any particular speaker or headphone set, but we will assist you with the purchase and installation.

Note: The internal speaker included on the recommended computers does not produce sound that can be clearly heard by most.

Scanners

If you do not have a copier close by with a scan-to-email feature, a local scanner can be a cost effective alternative. There are various types of scanners based on individual business need. We do not recommend any particular scanner but suggest that you stick with known brands, e.g. Fujitsu, Cannon. OTS can assist you with the purchase and installation if needed.

Important Note: If you need a scanner for ImageNow, contact OTS before making your purchase to ensure you are purchasing a scanner that will work with ImageNow and best meets your individual needs.

PowerPoint Clickers

PowerPoint Clickers or wireless presenters are commonly used in classrooms to advance PowerPoint slides without having to walk back to the computer. You may also use them when presenting at conferences or in meetings. Wireless presenters are available online and at consumer electronics stores such as Best Buy, Staples, etc. OTS does not recommend any particular type but can assist you with your purchase if needed.

Use in Classroom and Computer Labs

Policies for wireless presenters vary by college, so please check with local IT providers, chairpersons, or other college leadership before purchasing one since they may require drivers to be installed on classroom PCs. Funding also varies by department but it is usually up to individual faculty to provide their own. 

Recommended Printers

Departments should purchase individual printers only if there is an absolute need. Otherwise, small groups of faculty and staff members should share a central printer. Please refer to the sections on small workgroup needs and large workgroup needs for recommendations.

Inkjet vs. LaserJet Printers: TU recommends LaserJet printers. Inkjet printers may fill a very small need for certain people but can be costly in the long run; they consequently are often not worth repairing. The individual LaserJet printers detailed below are an economical alternative to inkjet printers.

The following list of recommended printers is broken down into several sections: individual needs, small workgroup needs, larger workgroup needs and color printing needs. Please also note that if these printers are to be directly connected to your computer locally through a USB port, you will be required to purchase a USB cable, available at any retail store or online.

Note: TU no longer supports locally shared printers between multiple computers. You will need to purchase a USB cable, USB-switch, or purchase a printer option that includes an Ethernet port for network use.

Black and White Printers

Individual Needs

HP LaserJet Pro M118dw (Print Only)
  • Mac and Windows PC compatible
  • Resolution (Black): UP to 1200 x 1200 dpi
  • Monthly duty Cycle: Up to 20,000 pages
  • Connectivity, Standard: Hi-Speed USB 2.0; Ethernet 10/100network
  • Duplex Printing: Automatic 2-sided printing (standard)
  • Print Speed Black (Normal) : Up to 30 ppm
  • Warranty: One Year limited warranty
HP LaserJet Pro MFP M148dw (Multifunction – Print, copy, scan)
  • Mac and Windows PC compatible
  • Resolution (Black): UP to 1200 x 1200 dpi
  • Monthly duty Cycle: Up to 20,000 pages
  • Connectivity, Standard: Hi-Speed USB 2.0; Ethernet 10/100network;
  • Duplex Printing: Automatic 2-sided printing (standard)
  • Print Speed Black (Normal) : Up to 30 ppm
  • Warranty: One Year limited warranty

Small Workgroup Needs

HP LaserJet Pro M404dn (Print only)
  • Mac and Windows PC Compatible
  • Resolution: 1200 x 1200 dpi
  • Monthly duty Cycle: Up to 80,000 pages
  • Connectivity: Hi-Speed USB 2.0; 1 host USB; Gigabit Ethernet Network
  • Duplex Printing: Automatic (default)
  • Print Speed: Up to 40 ppm
  • Warranty: One-year
HP LaserJet Pro MFP M428fdn (Multifunction – Print, copy, scan, fax, email)
  • Mac and Windows PC Compatible
  • Resolution: 1200 x 1200 dpi
  • Monthly duty Cycle: Up to 80,000 pages
  • Connectivity:  Hi-Speed USB 2.0; 1 host USB; Gigabit Ethernet Network
  • Duplex Printing: Automatic (default)
  • Print Speed: Up to 40 ppm
  • Warranty: One-year

Large Workgroup Needs

HP LaserJet Enterprise M608dn (Print Only)
  • Mac and Windows PC Compatible
  • Resolution: 1200 x 1200 dpi
  • Monthly duty Cycle: Up to 275,000 pages
  • Connectivity:  Hi-Speed USB 2.0; 1 host USB; Gigabit Ethernet Network
  • Duplex Printing: Automatic (Standard)
  • Print Speed: Up to 65 ppm
  • Warranty: One-year, next-business day, onsite warranty.
HP LaserJet Enterprise MFP M725dn (Multifunction – Print, copy, scan)
  • Mac and Windows PC Compatible
  • Resolution: 1200 x 1200 dpi
  • Monthly duty Cycle: Up to 275,000 pages
  • Connectivity:  2 Hi-Speed USB 2.0 Host; 1 Hi-Speed USB Device; Gigabit Ethernet
  • Duplex Printing: Automatic (Standard)
  • Print Speed: Up to 40 ppm
  • Warranty: One-year, next-business day, onsite warranty.

 

Color Printers

Individual Needs

HP Color LaserJet Pro M254dw (Print Only)
  • Mac and Windows PC compatible
  • Resolution : UP to 600 x 600 dpi
  • Monthly duty Cycle: Up to 40,000 pages
  • Connectivity, Standard: Hi-Speed USB 2.0; Ethernet 10/100network
  • Duplex Printing: Yes
  • Print Speed: Up to 22 ppm
  • Warranty: One Year limited warranty
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M180nw (Multifunction – Print, copy, scan)
  • Mac and Windows PC compatible
  • Resolution : UP to 600 x 600 dpi
  • Monthly duty Cycle: Up to 30,000 pages
  • Connectivity, Standard: Hi-Speed USB 2.0; Ethernet 10/100network
  • Duplex Printing: Manual (driver support provided)
  • Print Speed: Up to 17 ppm
  • Warranty: One Year limited warranty

Small Workgroup Needs

HP Color LaserJet Pro M454dw (Print Only)
  • Mac and Windows PC compatible
  • Resolution : UP to 600 x 600 dpi
  • Monthly duty Cycle: Up to 50,000 pages
  • Connectivity, Standard: Hi-Speed USB 2.0; Ethernet 10/100network
  • Duplex Printing: Automatic (default)
  • Print Speed: Up to 28 ppm
  • Warranty: One Year limited warranty
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M479fdw  (Multifunction – Print, copy, scan, fax, email)
  • Mac and Windows PC compatible
  • Resolution : UP to 600 x 600 dpi
  • Monthly duty Cycle: Up to 50,000 pages
  • Connectivity, Standard: Hi-Speed USB 2.0; Ethernet 10/100network
  • Duplex Printing: Automatic (default)
  • Print Speed: Up to 28 ppm
  • Warranty: One Year limited warranty

Large Workgroup Needs

HP Color LaserJet Enterprise M653dn (Print only)
  • Mac and Windows PC compatible
  • Resolution : UP to 1200 x 1200 dpi
  • Monthly duty Cycle: Up to 120,000 pages
  • Connectivity, Standard: Hi-Speed USB 2.0; Ethernet 10/100network
  • Duplex Printing: Automatic (default)
  • Print Speed: Up to 60 ppm
  • Warranty: One-year, next-business day, onsite warranty
HP Color LaserJet Enterprise Flow MFP M682z  (Multifunction – Print, copy, scan, fax)
  • Mac and Windows PC compatible
  • Resolution : UP to 1200 x 1200 dpi
  • Monthly duty Cycle: Up to 120,000 pages
  • Connectivity, Standard: Hi-Speed USB 2.0; Ethernet 10/100network
  • Duplex Printing: Automatic (default)
  • Print Speed: Up to 60 ppm
  • Warranty: One-year, next-business day, onsite warranty.

Vendor Information

You may contact any of these vendors. Always identify yourself as a MEEC member when requesting a quote or placing an order and reference Contract Number UB-12-B-19.

Daly

1-800-955-DALY or 1-301-670-0381
Fax: 1-301-963-1516
MDSales@daly.com
DALY

DISYS Solutions, Inc.

1-888-286-3896 or 703-802-798-3896
Fax: 703- 802-0798
mdsales@disyssolutions.com
DISYS Solutions

Harford Computer Group, Inc. (HCGI)

Bill Hottman: 410-302-0403, bhottman@hcgi.com
Carol Huff: 800-680-4424 x204, huffc@hcgi.com
Harford Computer Group

Electronic Systems | A XEROX Company

240.205.4622
Fax: 877.915.8218
Electronic Systems | A Xerox Company
Inside Sales Representative- Reegan Eyler: PublicSectorTeam2@esi.net
MEEC Address: MEEC@ESI.NET
Printers

GovConnection
PC Connection, Inc.

1-800-800-0019
Fax: 1-603-683-2482
GovConnection
Product Division

Copiers

Central Photocopy under Copies Plus is responsible for departmental copiers on campus and can assist you with your purchase. OTS works with Central Photocopy to install the copier on the campus network.

Recommended Smartphones

Towson University provides contracted cellular phone/data service and equipment through Verizon Wireless. OTS has recommended Smartphones that are supported by our Faculty/Staff Help Center and are discounted directly from Verizon.

Adobe Reader Download button