The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools' Computer Donation Policy

All technology donations need to be approved by The Director of Information Technology (DIT) before they can be accepted, including computer hardware, peripheral devices (cameras, printers, scanners, projectors, displays, storage devices, etc. and their accessories), software, online subscriptions, and any other item requiring technical support. Tech support staff members are not required to provide services for unapproved items.

Here are the minimum donation standards for the 2008-2009 school year:

  • Working or new Apple computers with Intel processors, at least 1 GB of RAM, and LCD displays
  • Working or new USB or Bluetooth inkjet or laser and/or Xerox brand networkable printers with OS 10.5 compatible drivers (ongoing replacement ink cartridge and printing paper costs will be assumed by the classroom or department receiving the donation)
  • Working or new USB or Firewire scanners with OS 10.5 compatible drivers
  • Working or new digital still cameras (3.1 megapixel or better) that save to common memory cards and are recognized by iPhoto 08
  • Working or new mini-DV or tapeless video cameras
  • Working or new iPods or Mac-compatible digital audio recording and playback devices
  • Working or new LCD or DLP projectors, min. 1500 ANSI lumens and native XGA resolution
  • Working or new LCD or plasma flat screen televisions with VGA computer inputs
  • Working or new document cameras, USB and OS 10.5 compatible and XGA resolution
  • FireWire External hard drives, 60 GB or better, USB or FireWire
  • Software and online services that fit the Schools’ educational mission, are compatible with current operating systems and hardware, and do not replicate existing software functions or present unusual support demands.
  • Standards for items not listed above will be addressed on a case-by-case basis. All donated items must be tagged and/or inventoried by Information Systems before they can be used. End-of-cycle replacement or repair of donated items from the Schools’ technology budget will be made at the discretion of the DIT and is not guaranteed.

    Document updated: August 14, 2008
    Updated by: Curt Lieneck, Director of Information Technology