Computer Purchasing FAQ

Before purchasing a computer, you must first enroll in Unimarket. During enrollment, you’ll provide information that generates a DocuSign form, which must be approved by your supervisor.

There are two types of Unimarket accounts:

• Browser – Can configure a computer, add it to the cart, and reassign it to a Buyer to complete the purchase (most users will request Browser access).

• Buyer – Can configure a computer and initiate the purchase by creating a Requisition. Buyer access requires signature authority for University indexes.

For detailed, step-by-step instructions, please refer to Lehigh Unimarket instructions.

There are two ways you can view similar items if something is backordered. If you are on the page where the backordered bundle is listed, simply scroll to the bottom of the page, and you will see “Similar Items Available Now.” If you can't find what you need, you may reach out to our CDW-G representative below.

Geoffrey Mckay 
CDW-G Account Representative
866-822-6527
lehigh@cdwg.com

The replacement lifecycle that LTS recommends that computers be replaced every four years. Departments should plan to replace 25% of their computers each year. You may contact your local Computing Consultant to start planning, or use Unimarket to browse for new devices.

Most LTS-recommended PC configurations include a 3-year onsite vendor warranty, with a 4th-year extension available depending on the brand and model. Apple devices are an exception: they come with a 1-year warranty, and AppleCare can be purchased separately to extend coverage up to 3 years (2 years for iPhones and iPads). LTS recommends at least 3 years of coverage for office computers.

For laptops, consider Accidental Damage protection. Some vendors include it by default; others offer it as a paid option (e.g., AppleCare+). LTS can provide guidance based on how and where the laptop will be used.

Warranty decisions should take into account usage frequency, the impact of downtime, and access to back up systems. Additional vendor-specific recommendations are available on their respective pages.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact lehigh@cdwg.com.

This is a common misconception. Coordinators are often equipped to complete Unimarket transactions; however, any faculty/staff member can use Unimarket. They simply have to enroll. This includes granting them access to their assigned indexes for purchasing.

If you do not see a bundle that you are interested in. You will have to contact our CDW-G representative below. Please add as much information for the desired device within the body of the email.

Geoffrey Mckay 
CDW-G Account Representative
866-822-6527
lehigh@cdwg.com

Lehigh University requires that faculty and staff who plan for or purchase products, equipment, supplies, and services with University funds, base purchases on sound business practice, the best value, accountability, and compliance with regulatory requirements. Individuals planning for or making purchases must follow this and other established University policies and procedures. Before making purchases on behalf of the University, please review these Purchasing Policies and the Purchasing Manual.

If you have any questions or concerns, please create a ticket for your local computing consultant.

If you can't find a configuration that meets your needs, you need to first reach out to Geoffrey McKay from CDW-G to see if he can find what you need or suggest alternatives.  You may also reach out to your LTS computing consultant to discuss your needs to see if other alternative configurations will work.

Geoffrey Mckay 
CDW-G Account Representative
866-822-6527
lehigh@cdwg.com

Unimarket is widely preferred and an overall better solution. Yes, Unimarket funds purchases using an index and account code only.