Consulting

Technology Purchase Consulting

Radford University provides recommendations for technology purchases to university departments as well as to Radford University students. For assistance with technology purchases not listed below, please contact the Technology Assistance Center.

System and Data Classification Questionnaire

2026 Student Computers

Do I need to purchase a new computer before coming to campus?

Although Radford University does not have a computer requirement for all students, most students choose to bring a laptop. If you currently own a laptop, consider bringing that device with you. However, as you progress through your academic career, you may find it beneficial to upgrade and purchase a new device.

If you are bringing your own computer or purchasing a new computer, the
recommended specifications include:

Windows 11
macOS
16 GB RAM
512 GB or larger SSD Hard Drive (1 TB suggested)
Windows Computer: i5 processor or higher (N, B, or Celeron are not recommended)
Apple Computer: M2 processor or higher
802.11 WiFi (WiFi 6 or better suggested)
Webcam (built-in or external)
Laptops are recommended
Consider the purchase of an accidental damage protection plan

All Radford University students have access to a full version of Microsoft Office 365 and 1 TB OneDrive storage for free.

What software is needed or recommended?

Be prepared to protect data with an external hard drive or an online backup service.
Students are encouraged to configure their Radford email on their SmartPhone devices.
We also encourage students to download the RU Mobile smartphone app. Just like the OneCampus portal, the RU Mobile app provides links to many campus services that are helpful to students.
Desire 2 Learn (D2L) is the learning management system used by the majority of classes to post content, discussion boards, grades, so check frequently. This can be accessed by going to OneCampus and searching for D2L. Be sure to save as a favorite by clicking on the app's tile heart.
Utilize the OneCampus portal to access email, D2L, grades, class schedule, finances and housing information. Be sure to check your email daily.
Students can access a variety of software packages on their personal devices by accessing the Virtual Computer Lab. In addition, there are a variety of computer labs throughout campus that has software needed to complete assignments outside of class.

Are there additional equipment recommendations?

Headset with microphone
External webcam if your computer isn't equipped with one
Be prepared to protect data with an external hard drive or an online backup service
Use a high capacity battery if available for portable devices (laptops, etc.)

What security options will protect my equipment and my data?

Use theft deterrence options like a security cable or Lo-Jack for laptops.
Install security updates on devices as they are available and enable automatic updates on Windows machines.
Students face threats from cyber criminals on a continual basis. Radford University uses the DUO Two Factor authentication system to help secure university passwords. Students should download the Duo Mobile smartphone app and use the “Send me a Push” method when accessing university systems. It is highly encouraged to register multiple devices and phone numbers within the DUO configuration link on the portal.
Students often receive email messages that try to get them to click on a link and provide secure information such as their username and password. Students also occasionally receive fake job offers that entice them with great pay for some type of very simple work. This often results in the student buying some type of gift card, incurring some type of expense, or cashing a check that later bounces. To prevent students from clicking on these malicious email links, Radford University implemented an email header that students will see when receiving messages from outside the university. The message says “Notice, this email originated externally. It is not from Radford University account. Use caution responding, opening attachments, or clicking links.” Students are encouraged to validate the authenticity of any suspicious message by reviewing the return email address and review the link's actual URL in an email message by hovering over the link.
Windows users should confirm they have enabled the free Windows Defender anti-virus software that comes with Windows or another anti-virus software package installed.

How do I connect to WiFi?

Radford University provides WiFi connectivity all around campus, including residence halls. Two Ethernet ports are available in each residence hall room, but most students prefer to use wireless connectivity.

“Eduroam” is the preferred WiFi connection on the main campus. It is the fastest and most reliable network.

Your Radford University user account will provide you with internet access in all residence halls, classrooms, computer labs and OneCampus portal.

Should I bring a printer?

We recommend residence halls students connect their printer directly to their computer through a USB cable. Although wireless printers can be configured, anyone in the building may be able to print to them.

Printers are available in computer labs for students to access. Student are giving a $5.00 printing allocation at the beginning of each fall term.

Who do I call if I have technology questions?

The Technology Assistance Center is located in Walker Hall 153s.

The hours of operation are Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 4:45 p.m. for walk-in and phone support. Additional phone support is available Sunday – Thursday 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Find answers to common questions or enter a support ticket at www.radford.edu/itonestop and someone will be touch with you.

You can always call us at 540-831-7500.

Departmental Computers

University-Owned Computers (Faculty and Staff)

Radford University currently standardizes on Dell and Apple mobile and desktop computers.

Contact Academic Technologies at acadcomp@radford.edu or call 831-7521 to request a current quote.

Purchasing Tips for Departments

Once a computer quote has been obtained, departments can enter a purchase request in eVA. Note: Computers should not be purchased with University credit cards.

When entering the order data in eVA:

Select the appropriate Supplier Code:
- For Dell orders, select DELL MARKETING LP
- For Apple orders, select Apple, Austin, TX
Select an appropriate Commodity Code for computers:
- For desktop computers, use code 20453
- For mobile computers, use code 20454
Enter the appropriate Contract Number in the Contract No. field.
- For Dell orders, the current Contract No. is VA 140331-LEN
- For Apple orders, the current Contract No. is VA-150605-APPL
List each item on a separate line, and indicate each item's part number in the Part Number field.
Reference the quote number in the description and attach a copy of the quote to the PR
Indicate on the PR that items are to be shipped to the Campus Warehouse.
Upon delivery to the Warehouse, the department will be notified to receive the items in eVA.
DoIT staff will image the computer, install software, and make delivery to the department.

Contact Academic Technologies at acadcomp@radford.edu or phone 831-7521 with questions.

Departmental Monitors

Based on criteria such as energy efficiency, cost effectiveness, reliability, and compatibility with existing equipment, ITS recommends a selection of 24", and 27" monitors for departmental purchases. The tables below list some common features for monitor comparison. The examples provided are Mac/PC compatible, energy compliant, LED display, and include 3-year warranty.

Dell Adjustable Stands

24”	27”	24” USB-C Hub Monitor	27” USB-C Hub Monitor
Model E2422HS	Model E2722HS	Model P2422HE	Model P2722HE
Cables Included HDMI DisplayPort Power Cord	Cables Included HDMI DisplayPort Power Cord	Cables Included DisplayPort cable - 6 ft USB-C cable - 6 ft	Cables Included DisplayPort cable - 6 ft USB-C cable - 6 ft
Port Connections DisplayPort HDMI VGA Speakers	Port Connections DisplayPort HDMI VGA Speakers	Port Connections DisplayPort HDMI USB-C 3.1 Gen 1 to charge a laptop (power up to 65W) 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Network (RJ-45)	Port Connections DisplayPort HDMI USB-C 3.1 Gen 1 to charge a laptop (power up to 65W) 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Network (RJ-45)
Full HD (1080p) 1920 x 1080	Full HD (1080p) 1920 x 1080	Full HD (1080p) 1920 x 1080	Full HD (1080p) 1920 x 1080
$151	$174	$263	$273

Departmental iPads

The Division of Information Technology works closely with Apple and RU's Procurement & Contracts Office to obtain the appropriate configuration and simplify the ordering process for iPads. The steps to purchase a University-owned iPad include the following:

Step 1: The department completes an iPad Justification & Quote Request and submits the form to Academic Technologies.

Step 2: Academic Technologies obtains a quote for specified iPad quantities and accessories and forwards the quote to the department contact identified on the Justification form.

Step 3: The requesting department enters a purchase requisition into eVA and attaches the quote and completed iPad Justification/Quote form to the PR. The following information should be included on the PR:

Supplier: You may enter SUP052039 into the Supplier field to bring in the Apple Cupertino CA information.
Contract No. and iPad Part No.: Enter state contract #VA-150605-APPL and iPad part number as provided on the quote.
Item Description: Copy each item description as provided on the quote similar to the following

PK2K3LL/A
Personalized 10.2-inch iPad WiFi 64GB - Space Gray
Engraving
Property of Radford University

Step 4: Once the iPad arrives at the RU Campus Warehouse:

Fixed Assets attaches a Radford University property tag
The iPad is delivered to Academic Technologies
Academic Technologies contacts the department to arrange iPad distribution and training.

NOTES:

Cellular Connectivity. The standard iPad connectivity is WiFi (similar to a laptop). The optional cellular (eSIM) chipset is available, however the data plan may not be purchased from University E&G and Auxiliary budgets. Individuals who purchase the data plan using personal funds may not request reimbursement from the University.
iOS apps. Due to Apple legal and the Virginia state purchasing guidelines, Radford University is unable to purchase "apps" from E&G and Auxiliary budgets. Individuals who purchase apps using personal funds may not request reimbursement from the University; however, Radford University will continue to work with Apple to resolve these obstacles and provide a mechanism for the university to purchase apps in the future.
Standard warranty is 1-year for hardware failures. The iPad is a consumer device with an expected life span of approximately 4 years. AppleCare may extend the warranty between 2 and 4 years. This warranty does not cover accidental damage of screen damage or spilling liquid on the device, thus $59 to $199 AppleCare is not recommended. Departments are responsible if any hardware failure costs are incurred.
iPad and Card Readers. An iPad and card swipe reader may be used to track participants attending events or activities. If your department would like this access, please enter an ITOneStop support request by logging into ITOneStop at www.radford.edu/itonestop and then select the "Get Help" link. Enter "Card Reader Access" as the subject and, in the description, enter "Requesting CBORD license and Magnetic Strip Card Reader for XXXXX" (replacing XXXXX with your department name and contact person). Once a license has been obtained, reports may be generated by the designated contact person. An annual license cost for the department is approximately $363.80, and a onetime purchase of a secure card / mobile reader is approximately $300.

Departmental Telephones

Provided Telephones
Information Technology Services provides desktop telephone handsets to new positions if an existing phone is not already in place. Request for phones for new positions should be submitted in ITOneStop by the department.

Departmental Telephone Purchases
Departments are responsible for purchasing replacement VoIP desktop phones as well as new and replacement conference phones and optional headsets. Both desktop and conference phones should be purchased from state contract. Listed below are the current recommended models and purchase tips. To request a current phone quote, enter a service ticket in ITOneStop.

Desktop Phone Handset

Conference Phone

Cisco 8832

Vendor: Innovative Systems and Solutions (ABS Technology Architects)
Contract Number: UCP-3491557JC
Ship to Location: Indicate on the PR that phones be shipped to Radford University Campus Warehouse. Warehouse staff will forward phones to IT for setup and delivery to the department.

Technology Accessories

The computer accessory options listed on this page are recommended by for Radford University departmental purchases.

Webcams

Logitech C920 HD Pro Web Camera (est. cost $77)
(This model has a smaller field of view but should meet the needs of most departments.)
Logitech HD C930e Webcam (est. cost $103)
(This model has a wider field of view for large groups.)

Apply Now Plan a Visit