IS Helpdesk Loaner Laptop Program

The program supports the needs of full time faculty and staff members that require the use of a University owned laptop computer for a limited period of time. Program parameters include –

• Laptops are available for checkout only if they are in inventory.
• Laptops are available for periods of one day to a maximum of two weeks. They must be returned on time in order to maintain acceptable inventory levels.
• Laptops may be checked out for the following reasons –
  • Business travel
  • Specific work related assignments that require the use of a laptop computer, when no other computer is available to the user
  • Campus Event / Seminar needs – limit of two systems per event

  If you require a loaner laptop, but feel your needs don’t match the criteria referenced above, you may e-mail the Helpdesk Manager, Scott Tilghman, at stilghma@richmond.edu.

  Available Systems:

  • HP Netbooks – all systems have “frozen” images
    • Windows XP Professional
    • University standard software
    • With frozen images, all saved data will be erased at restart/shut down
    • You may save data to external media (flash/thumb/jump drive, netfiles, etc.)
    • No additional software can be loaded
    • No cd/dvd drive available
    • Specifications:
      • Light weight – 2.25lbs
      • Compact – 10.3in display
    • No oncampus login required (pickup and go)
  • Lenovo Laptops –
    • Windows Vista
    • University standard software installed along with SPSS and Adobe Acrobat
    • The Lenovo laptops are running the Bitlocker drive encryption tool, which is now standard on Vista laptops.
    • All data will be erased upon return to helpdesk
  • Macbook Pros –
    • Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard
    • University standard software
    • All data will be erased upon return to helpdesk

  Process:

  • Call 287-6400 or email Helpdesk@richmond.edu, in advance of your trip to make a reservation.
  • We need your name, the dates (within the two week maximum) that you need the laptop and the purpose of your request.
  • Stop by the Helpdesk to pick up your Netbook or laptop on the 1st day of your request. If you are getting a laptop, you must log in to the system while it is on the University of Richmond network so the system can create a local account. (This is a security feature to prevent people from accessing your data.) The Helpdesk staff may assist you with this process when you pick the system up.
  • DO NOT Carry the laptop in your suit case; please use the carry case provided by the University of Richmond, and treat it as “carry on” luggage when flying.
  • You must follow the University of Richmond policies regarding the use of technology and information resources. This includes the use of confidential and/or sensitive information.
  • Return the laptop on the agreed date.
    • You will receive a courtesy reminder notice the day before due date.
    • If the return of the system is overdue, you will receive ONE overdue notice. Subsequent requests will be sent to the department manager or chair.
  • All profiles on the machine will be deleted by the helpdesk upon return, please take all your personal and work data off before return.