Desktop PC Purchase and Renewal
The College Desktop PC purchasing programme aims to:
- Provide 'best of breed' quality computer hardware at consistently low prices (based on a 4 year competitive tender)
- Provide quality advice which is consistent with College aims and policies, whilst providing the flexibility required to meet teaching and research needs
- Reduce support costs and downtime by encouraging a consistent computer base at a high standard specification
- Keep abreast of new developments and adopt new models as soon as is consistent with compatibility and quality testing
- Ensure compatibility with all standard College systems
- Provide after-sales advice and support via warranty, upgrade advice in direct negotiation with the College supplier
- Provide thorough and detailed advice wherever possible
Our aim is to provide the best advice we can in order to help our customers obtain the most suitable equipment they can for a reasonable price to assist them in their teaching, research or administrative aims. We have direct links to technical advisers and account managers to assist us in this. Where required we will also seek 'special quotes' based on specific configurations not available directly via the catalogue.
If you cannot find what you need, or if you would like further information or advice, please contact us via the ICT Service Desk. We will endeavour to respond as quickly as possible at all times but most of all we will thoroughly research the options for you.
College Preferred Supplier
HP Direct (the direct sales arm of Hewlett-Packard Corporation) is the College preferred supplier of desktop and notebook computer equipment. This is based on a competitive tender, renewable every 4 years. The ICT Desktop Procurement team, in partnership with College Purchasing, is responsible for the day to day administration of this account.
HP computers on College contract pricing can be purchased via the HP pages on iProcurement punch-out. All models are ordered direct from the factory and are built to order. This provides complete flexibility of build and configuration. Delivery is typically 2 weeks from date of order however for standard desktop models we retain sizeable stocks on site at South Kensington for immediate deployment.
College Standard Equipment
All College Standard equipment supplied is sourced from HP Direct at significantly discounted prices. All systems are built to order and are purchased and shipped direct from the factory. This gives the College significant price advantages and almost unlimited configuration flexibility within configurable model ranges. All models have a 'suggested' College specification however components can be upgraded at time of purchase via the 'Configure' option. This is typically the most economic method of ugrading as there is no wastage of replaced parts.
Whilst we cannot always provide the cheapest option, we do aim to provide a competitively priced, high quality option. The equipment we specify is designed and built to provide excellent longevity in service, which is not always the case of cheaper 'consumer' models. Most recommended models come with a full 3 year warranty, with all new desktop models having a full 3 year on site warranty.
The Desktop PC Procurement Programme
- College Central Computer Replacement Programme (provided via managed ICT programme)
- Desktop Procurement for Departments and Researchers (purchase via ICIS iProcurement)
Delivery for non-stock items usually takes 2-3 weeks from date of order, so it is advisable to place orders early to avoid disappointment. Prices and specifications remain fairly constant so there is no benefit in delaying orders.
Further information is available under About Desktop Procurement or in the FAQ, or by logging a self-help request at the Service Desk home page, with the phrase 'HP purchase inquiry' in the subject line.
