# Computer Hardware Upgrade & Managment

# Computer Hardware Upgrades

What hardware should you have for your lab or computer? What are some of the best practices for storing information on your computer? Learn about these topics and more in this chapter.

# Workstation Refresh Program

Details on the workstation refresh program can be found at [Workstation Refresh Program](https://www.sjsu.edu/it/services/communication-collaboration/pc-tablet/workstation-refresh.php). For additional assistance, email <mlml-helpdesktech@sjsu.edu>.

---

**Budget User Windows Laptop:**  
Dell Latitude 3420

<div id="bkmrk-%24801-intel-core-i5-1">$801  
<div>- Intel Core i5-1135G7 quad-core CPU
- 8GB RAM
- Nvidia GeForce MX450 graphics processor
- 256GB SSD
- 14" 1366x768 screen
- 41 watt-hour battery

<div>**Power User Windows Laptop:**</div><div>Dell latitude 7430</div><div>$1246</div><div>- Intel Core i5-1245U 10-core CPU
- 16GB RAM
- Intel Iris XE graphics
- 256GB SSD
- 14" 1920x1080 screen
- 58 watt-hour battery

<div>**Standard Windows Desktop:**</div></div><div>Dell OptiPlex 7090 Small-form-factor</div><div>$944</div><div>- Intel Core i7-10700 8-core processor
- 16GB RAM
- AMD Radeon 550 graphics processor
- 256GB SSD

<div>**Standard Monitor:**</div><div>Dell P2422H</div><div>- 24" 1920x1080 monitor

<div>**MacBook Air:**</div></div><div>MacBook Air</div><div>$1099</div><div>- Apple M2 8-core processor
- 8GB RAM
- 256GB SSD
- 13" 2560x1664 screen
- 53 watt-hour battery

<div>**Standard User MacBook Pro:**</div></div><div>14" MacBook Pro</div><div>$1849</div><div>- Apple M1 Pro 8-core processor
- 16GB RAM
- 512GB SSD
- 14" 3024x1964 120hz screen
- 70 watt-hour battery

<div>**Power User MacBook Pro:**</div></div><div>16" MacBook Pro$3399</div><div>- Apple M10 Max 10-core processor
- 64GB RAM
- 1TB SSD
- 16" 3456x2234 120hz screen
- 100 watt-hour battery

</div><div>**Mac Desktop:**</div><div>Mac mini</div><div>$829</div><div>- Apple M1 8-core processor
- 16GB RAM
- 256GB SSD

</div></div></div></div>

# Hardware Upgrades: RAM and SSD

<div id="bkmrk-"><div><div><div data-index="1"><div><div></div></div></div></div></div></div>##  

## Memory Upgrades

<div id="bkmrk--0"><div><div><div data-index="1"><div><div>---

</div></div></div></div></div></div>##### RAM: Random Access Memory

<div id="bkmrk-upgrading-your-ram-i"><div data-index="1">- Upgrading your RAM is the easiest way to get your computer running quicker and smoother. Your computer should have at least 8GB RAM to perform well with modern operating systems and programs.
- **Mac Upgrades:**
    - The RAM on most newer Macs cannot be upgraded. Below is a list of Macs which **cannot** be upgraded: 
        - Mac mini (2014, 2020 and newer)
        - MacBook Pro (Late 2012 and newer)
        - MacBook Air (all models)
        - MacBook 12" (all models)
        - iMac (some 21" models 2015-2020, all models 2021 and newer)
    - To check whether your Mac can be upgraded, enter your serial number into [Everymac.com's serial lookup tool](https://everymac.com/ultimate-mac-lookup/).
    - [How to upgrade your Mac’s RAM](https://www.macworld.co.uk/how-to/mac/upgrade-ram-mac-3484328/)
    - [How to determine how much RAM you need](http://www.macinstruct.com/node/423): check your Activity Monitor for Memory Used to determine how much RAM you need.
- **PC Upgrades:**
    - [How to Install RAM on your PC](https://www.pcworld.com/article/2957195/components/how-to-install-new-memory-in-your-pc.html)
    - [How to determine how much RAM you need](https://www.wikihow.com/Check-Computer-RAM): check your memory usage and determine how much RAM you’ll need.
- [Newegg Memory Configurator](https://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductConfigurator.aspx?category=17&name=Memory-Configurator) - Choose the right RAM for your computer

</div></div>##  

## SSD Upgrades

<div id="bkmrk-a%C2%A0solid-state-drive%C2%A0"><div data-index="1">---

- A [Solid-state-drive](https://www.backblaze.com/blog/ssd-upgrade-guide/) (SSD) is a storage device for your computer. It is much faster than a hard disk drive (HDD), which was traditionally used for storage in computers. It has no moving parts and its information is stored in microchips.
- Upgrading your computer from a HDD to a SSD will greatly increase the speed. More specifically, loading times and transfer times will speed up. (Copying and moving files).
- [Crucial SSD Upgrade Tool](https://www.crucial.com/store/advisor) - helps determine which upgrade you need.
- **Mac Upgrades:**
    - The storage drive on most newer Macs cannot be upgraded. Below is a list of Macs which **cannot** be upgraded: 
        - Mac mini (2018 and newer)
        - MacBook Pro (2016 and newer
        - MacBook Air (2018 and newer)
        - MacBook 12" (all models)
        - iMac (2021 and newer)
    - To check whether your Mac can be upgraded, enter your serial number into [Everymac.com's serial lookup tool](https://everymac.com/ultimate-mac-lookup/).
    - Determine which SSD is compatible with your system with the Crucial link above or [here](https://www.crucial.com/store/advisor). Find your Mac model and check out the buying options for SSD upgrades.
    - To learn about SSD Upgrades for Macs click [here](https://www.macworld.co.uk/feature/mac/best-ssd-for-mac-2018-3600870/).
- **PC Upgrades:**
    - To determine what kind of drive your computer has click [here](https://www.crucial.com/store/advisor).
    - Use the Crucial link above for buying options.

</div></div>

# Memory Upgrade Compatibility

Many online vendors have tools you can use to identify and purchase a memory upgrade for your computer. Both Crucial and NewEgg.com have reliable and easy to use tool that helps find memory that is compatible with your computer.  
  
PC Part Picker is also a great way to judge compatibility of components for any given hardware. Especially when putting together a new PC.  
  
*(Be sure to check how many memory slots your computer has and the max capacity of each slot before ordering)*  
  
[Crucial Memory](http://www.crucial.com/)  
  
[NewEgg.com Memory Configurator](http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductConfigurator.aspx?category=17&name=Memory-Configurator)  
  
[PC part Picker](https://pcpartpicker.com/)

# Check your AppleCare Status

You can quickly and easily check to see whether your Mac is still covered under your AppleCare warranty at Apple's Support website: [https://checkcoverage.apple.com/](https://checkcoverage.apple.com/)

# Student Computer Recommendations

<span style="font-weight: 400;">Choosing a new computer is an important decision, and we would like to provide recommendations for minimum system requirements that might help you get the most out of your new computer. </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Please checkout our </span>[<span style="font-weight: 400;">KB page for upgrading hardware</span>](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/computer-hardware-upgrade-managment/page/hardware-upgrades-ram-and-ssd)<span style="font-weight: 400;"> in your computer to see if minor upgrades could save you the cost of buying a new computer.</span>

---

#### <span style="font-weight: 400;">Minimum System Requirements</span>

##### <span style="font-weight: 400;">RAM (Random Access Memory)</span>

- <span style="font-weight: 400;">At least </span>**8GB**<span style="font-weight: 400;"> of RAM is recommended</span>
- <span style="font-weight: 400;">It is important to have an adequate amount of RAM, because this allows you to run multiple programs and have multiple browser tabs open at the same time without bogging down your computer.</span>
- <span style="font-weight: 400;">If you foresee yourself working with more complicated software and having to multitask frequently, you may want to consider purchasing a computer with </span>**16GB**<span style="font-weight: 400;"> of RAM</span>

##### <span style="font-weight: 400;">Internal Storage</span>

- <span style="font-weight: 400;">We recommend at least </span>**512GB**<span style="font-weight: 400;"> of internal storage</span>
- <span style="font-weight: 400;">This will give you enough local storage for the operating system, software programs, data files, pictures, etc.</span>
- <span style="font-weight: 400;">In addition, we highly recommend that you backup your computer. For different methods and best practices, visit our </span>[<span style="font-weight: 400;">Computer Backup KB Page</span>](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/software/page/computer-backup)

##### <span style="font-weight: 400;">CPU (Internal Central Processing Unit)</span>

- <span style="font-weight: 400;">We recommend having at least a </span>**quad-core**<span style="font-weight: 400;"> processor</span>
- <span style="font-weight: 400;">Although there is a tradeoff between energy efficiency, a quad-core processor allows you to multitask and run several programs at the same time without slowing you down</span>

##### <span style="font-weight: 400;">Internal Drive</span>

- <span style="font-weight: 400;">Ensure that the device you are purchasing has a </span>**solid-state-drive (SSD)**
- <span style="font-weight: 400;">Having an **SSD** will greatly increase your computer’s loading and transfer speeds</span>
- Additionally, if your current device has a hard disk drive, you may be able to upgrade it to a SSD. Check out our [Hardware Upgrades KB page](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/computer-hardware-upgrade-managment/page/hardware-upgrades-ram-and-ssd)<span style="font-weight: 400;"> to learn more!</span>

# Computer Management & Storage

Helpful pages about how to manage, backup, and store data on your device. Also information about checking your computers performance.

# Computer Setup & Data Management

**Below are the steps you should take to purchase, setup, and manage a new workstation.**

---

### <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Purchasing Computers &amp; Hardware:</span>

When purchasing any computer hardware with SJSU, SJSURF, or Lab-specific funds, we recommend contacting the IT Group by submitting an [IT Helpdesk Ticket](https://helpdesk.mlml.calstate.edu), so IT can help you find the best hardware to fit your specific needs.

#### **Recommended Configurations**

<span style="font-weight: 400;">Browse the workstation configurations available and recommended by IT through the SJSU Workstation Refresh program.</span>

- - <span style="font-weight: 400;">[Workstation Refresh (No-Cost)](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/computer-hardware-upgrade-managment/page/workstation-refresh-%28no-cost%29)</span>
    - [<span style="font-weight: 400;">Workstation Refresh (Discounted)</span>](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/computer-hardware-upgrade-managment/page/workstation-refresh-%28discounted%29)

####  

#### **High Performance Configurations**

- - If you or your lab has a need for a high performance machine for a specific purpose, please contact IT by submitting an [IT Helpdesk Ticket](https://helpdesk.mlml.calstate.edu). The IT Group will work with you to decide what hardware will best suit your needs, whether it is a High Performance Desktop Workstation, a Virtual Machine in the on-premise environment, or a Cloud Compute Instance.

####  

#### **Storage Devices**

- - ##### <span style="font-weight: 400;">External Hard Drive</span>
        
        
        - <span style="font-weight: 400;">For backing up your workstation, IT recommends a portable external hard drive. Below are a few recommended drives.</span>
            
            
            - [<span style="font-weight: 400;">Seagate Backup Plus Slim</span>](https://www.seagate.com/consumer/backup/backup-plus/)
            - [<span style="font-weight: 400;">Western Digital My Passport</span>](https://www.wd.com/products/portable-storage/my-passport.html)
    - ##### <span style="font-weight: 400;">Network Attached Storage (NAS)</span>
        
        
        - <span style="font-weight: 400;">For lab environments, where you may have lots of data that needs to be shared between many workstations, IT recommends purchasing a NAS. These are physical data storage servers, connected to the network, that allow you to keep your lab data in a centralized location and are accessible by whomever you give access.</span>
        - <span style="font-weight: 400;">Be aware that any lab wanting to purchase a NAS must do so with their own funds.</span>
        - <span style="font-weight: 400;">If you are thinking of purchasing a NAS for your lab, please submit an [IT Helpdesk Ticket](https://helpdesk.mlml.calstate.edu/). The IT Group will advise and assist in the process of planning, purchasing hardware, and getting the NAS setup for use.</span>

####  

#### [**Hardware Upgrades**](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/computer-hardware-storage/page/hardware-upgrades)

- - In some cases, a slow workstation's performance can be improved by an increase in memory or replacing a hard drive with a solid-state drive. If you are thinking about a hardware upgrade for your workstation, please submit an<span style="font-weight: 400;"> [IT Helpdesk Ticket](https://helpdesk.mlml.calstate.edu/)</span>. For more information, see the [Hardware Upgrades page](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/computer-hardware-storage/page/hardware-upgrades).

---

### <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Operating System (OS) &amp; Software Configuration:</span>

#### [**Operating Systems and Updates**](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/software/page/recommended-operating-systems)

- - Install the latest operating system compatible with your device and perform regular updates to keep it running quickly and efficiently. For more information, visit the [Recommended Operating Systems page](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/software/page/recommended-operating-systems).

- -

####  **Software Installation**

*To see what services and technologies you have access to at MLML, check out our [Service Level Agreements](https://mlml.sjsu.edu/itech/service-level-agreements/).*

- - <span style="font-weight: 400;">Basic software recommendations include: [Microsoft Office](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/software/page/request-microsoft-office-2016-for-state-owned-computers), [Adobe CC](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/software/page/adobe-creative-cloud-software-information), and [Google Chrome](https://www.google.com/chrome/)</span>
    - <span style="font-weight: 400;">To learn about all software available through MLML and other recommended software visit our </span>[<span style="font-weight: 400;">Software Page</span>](https://mlml.sjsu.edu/itech/software/)
    - <span style="font-weight: 400;">Software Installation Procedures can be found on our </span>[<span style="font-weight: 400;">Knowledge Base</span>](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/software)

---

### <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Security:</span>

All State-Owned computers will need to meet certain security requirements set by SJSU that IT will install (e.g., Spirion), but a password manager will also need to be setup by you and is required.

#### [**Password Management**](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/security-anti-malware/page/secure-password-storage-management)

- - Learn how to keep your passwords robust, safe, and securely stored please visit our [Password Storage &amp; Management Page](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/security-anti-malware/page/secure-password-storage-management).

#### [**Information Security**](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/security-anti-malware/page/information-security-overview)

- - IT **strongly** recommends thoroughly reading and implementing the advice on the [Information Security Overview](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/security-anti-malware/page/information-security-overview) to keep you and your data safe online.

---

### <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Data Management:</span>

#### [**Computer Backup**](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/software/page/computer-backup)

##### There are two methods you may use to backup a computer:

##### 1) [Backup User Files to Hard Drive](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/software/page/computer-backup)

- - - - Purchase an external hard drive to backup your workstation (recommended 1-2 TB)
            - <span style="font-weight: 400;">This hard drive should be dedicated for this purpose only</span>
            - <span style="font-weight: 400;">Setup the following backup programs available on your device to backup to your external hard drive:</span>
                1. <span style="font-weight: 400;">[Time Machine](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/link/46#bkmrk-macos%3A-time-machine) - Apple Mac</span>
                2. <span style="font-weight: 400;">[File History](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/link/46#bkmrk-windows-8-and-newer%3A) (or equivalent) - Windows PC</span>

##### 2) [Create a Disk Image](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/software/page/create-a-disk-image)

- - - - Imaging your computer's disk creates a replica of the contents on your computer
            - Using a differential setup creates one initial full image of your disk, then the proceeding images save only the content that has changed since the initial image

#### [**Storage Management**](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/software/page/computer-storage-management)

1. - <span style="font-weight: 400;">To keep your workstation working properly it is important to properly [manage the files and data](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/software/page/computer-storage-management) on the computer</span>
    - <span style="font-weight: 400;">Backups should be routinely scheduled - can automatically set this up in the backup computer settings (see Backup section above and follow link)</span>

#### [**File Migration**](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/computer-hardware-storage/page/how-to-migrate-files)

To successfully migrate folders and files from an old device to a new device, visit the [File Migration Page](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/computer-hardware-storage/page/how-to-migrate-files).

# Computer Performance

This is a copy of the [Computer Performance](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/software/page/computer-performance) page located in the [Software](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/software) book under [Operating Systems](https://kb.mlml.sjsu.edu/books/software/chapter/operating-systems).

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# E-Waste



# E-Waste Procedures

*When throwing away any electronics, all data/information and any tags will need to be deleted/removed before discarding.*

##### Follow these E-Waste procedures outlined below:

1. Check for MLML, SJSU, or SJSURF asset tags 
    - If present, remove the tag and stick it to a piece of paper. Write the Make, Model, and description of the device. Also include the serial number.
    - Give the paper with this information to Ivano and a copy to IT.
2. Remove the hard drive and label it with the group (e.g. MLML) and device info. 
    - Coordinate for the destruction of data or drive with IT via an IT Helpdesk Ticket.
3. Check with IT to determine if any parts/components are still viable or useful.
4. Dispose the device in e-waste bins located in the corner of the corp yard by the warehouse door. Make sure the bins are covered after you’re done.

# Battery Recycling

#####  

##### Recycle batteries and printer cartridges:

There are bins in the shop for recycling old batteries and printer cartridges.  
The following types of batteries are ok to recycle in the shop:

- AAA, AA, C, D
- 9V
- watch batteries, CMOS batteries
- laptop batteries
- UPS batteries

<span style="color: #ff0000;">*IMPORTANT! For safety reasons, be sure to put tape on ALL battery contacts!*</span>