These are the standard devices that will fit most of the computing needs on campus. Please contact ITS should you require something outside the standard configurations.
Please note that these packages are subject to change due to UNC General Administration’s Combined Pricing Initiative program and vendor availability.
Client Technology Refresh Program Specs
What do these terms mean?
Processor: How fast the computer can operate
The “brain” of the computer that performs calculations. Speed is measured in Gigahertz (GHz). Processors have a base speed, which is the idle speed at which the processor runs when the computer is on. Modern processors speed up – referred to as “turbo boost” – when your tasks demand more intensive calculations. The turbo boost speed is the maximum speed at which the processor can perform tasks. Varying the processor speed allows the processor to run at a lower speed when handling light workloads, then speed up when handling heavier workloads. This dramatically improves computer efficiency and extends battery life.
Processors include a number of subdivisions called “cores.” These are discrete, independent processing units that can perform calculations independent of other cores. Each core runs at the processor’s base frequency, and can independently turbo boost to the processor’s maximum speed when needed. More cores allow the computer to perform more operations in a shorter amount of time.
Memory: How many things the computer can do simultaneously
Random Access Memory (RAM) is used by the computer to temporarily store information. RAM is extremely fast, but does not permanently store information. When the processor needs to perform a task, it loads data to the RAM so that it can be quickly processed.
For example, when you open a spreadsheet in Excel, the file is loaded into RAM. The more files or programs running simultaneously, the more RAM required. 16 GB of RAM is an industry standard for high-end computing.
Storage: How many files can be stored on the computer
Storage is simply the amount of files you can permanently store on the computer. Older computers used hard disk drives (HDD) which functioned very similar to a miniature record player. Modern computers use Solid State Drives (SSD) which avoid the “moving parts” of older HDDs and thus operate much more quickly with higher energy efficiency.
Dell (Windows) Computers
Dell Laptop
https://www.dell.com/en-us/shop/dell-laptops/dell-pro-max-14-laptop/spd/dell-pro-max-mc14250-laptop
- Display: 14″
- Processor: Ultra 5
- Memory: 16GB
- Storage:
Note: Please note that the current generation Dell laptops do not include an optical drive for CDs and DVDs; should you require an optical drive you may purchase an external USB CD/DVD Drive. Dell laptops include a business class Docking Station.
Dell All-in-One Desktop
- Display: 24″
- Processor: Ultra 5
- Memory: 16 GB
- Storage: 512 GB
Apple Computers
MacBook Air M4 13″
https://www.apple.com/macbook-air/specs/
- Display: 13″
- Processor: M4
- Memory: 16 GB
- Storage: 512GB
- Network: WiFi
Purchased docks must support DisplayLink to use multiple displays.
Note: Apple laptops cannot be upgraded after ordering. Any additional storage space or memory (RAM) requirements must be requested prior to ordering equipment.
Apple iMac M4 24″
https://www.apple.com/imac/specs/
- 2x Thunderbolt Ports
- Processor: M4
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 512 GB SSD
- Network: Gigabit Ethernet/WiFi
- Magic Mouse and Keyboard
Note: Apple desktops now only include Ethernet and USB-C (USB3 and Thunderbolt 4) ports. Most peripherals will require an adapter to connect. A wireless mouse and keyboard are included.
For more detailed specs please see the refresh survey that’s sent to your department during the ordering window.