Hardware Support
The Division of Legal Computing supports all hardware in terms of its physical ability to perform its function. If a system fails for any reason (such as a monitor, drive or power supply failure), the Division will repair it within a reasonable time. The timeliness of a repair will be dependant upon Division of Legal Computing inner-department considerations (such as other projects, repairs and upgrades going on at the time) and the Division will prioritize work as it comes in. In most instances, though, repairs are completed within a day or so, accompanied with the proper funding.
The Division, however, is not responsible for "how well" a particular PC runs a piece of software, just that it runs it. If one PC runs software slower than others in the law building that does not necessarily mandate a repair. However, if it is determined by the Division that a PC is performing poorly due to a hardware problem or limitation then it will be scheduled for repair provided that parts and funding are available. In addition, if a PC is running at its optimum level but is performing poorly while running core software, it will be then considered as a candidate for upgrade in accordance with the upgrade policies and procedures employed by the Division.
Upgrades: Hardware upgrades are always a concern with the Division as new software developments push the limits of current technology. To service this need the Division constantly evaluates the hardware status of all departments to determine when hardware upgrades are necessary. The upgrade decision is based on many factors, such as the location of PC, number of users it services, the kind of software it runs and how well it runs core software, and the funding available, as well as the overall plan of PC upgrades throughout the school. When a PC is determined to be a candidate for upgrade, the Division will weigh all factors in deciding the method of upgrade (or replacement) and will do so with input of the departmental heads for that area and the Dean of Finance. Then, if all criteria is met, an upgrade will be performed within a reasonable time.
Moving Hardware: As a general rule, all users are prohibited from physically moving PCs from one place to another without express consent of the Division of Legal Computing. As all PCs are locked to their respective furniture, moving systems without unlocking them first can damage sensitive equipment.