As technology evolves and new features are offered, there may be times when unwanted or unexpected things happen. This page is dedicated to providing some tips, tricks, and recommendations to circumvent these undesired circumstances.

Normalize Sound Levels – Windows

Microsoft Windows 10 automatically adjusts audio levels between different applications. This can affect the level of sounds from various applications depending on what program is currently being used. This feature can be turned off using the instructions below.

1. From the Sound Icon in your task bar, single right-click

2. Click “Sounds“

3. Click “Communications” tab.

4. Select the “Do nothing” radial button

5. Click “Apply”
6. Click “OK”

Adjust Microphone Settings – Windows

To ensure clear and audible audio in virtual meeting applications, such as Zoom, please follow the instructions below.

1. Right-click the Audio icon in the system tray portion of the task bar

2. Click “Sounds”

3. Click “Recording”

4. Right Click on “Microphone Array” and select “Properties”

5. Click the “Advanced” and un-check “Enable Audio Enhancements”

6. Click “Apply”

7. Click “OK”

Adjust Power Options – Lenovo Laptops

Default power profiles in Windows 10 are configured to balance performance and battery life. To change these settings, please follow the steps below.

1. Click on Start, and then click “Settings“

2. Click on “System“

3. Select “Power & Sleep“

4. To modify power settings while the laptop is plugged in or on battery power, modify the below options

5. For additional power settings, such as the laptop lid and power button settings, click Additional power settings

6. Select either “Choose what the power buttons do” or “Choose what closing the lid does“

7. The options below will allow modifying the effects of pressing the power button and closing the lid

Restarting A Computer

Rebooting a device is highly encouraged as it will help keep the system running at peak performance. The benefits of a weekly reboot include:

• Mitigate vulnerabilities to cyber-attacks by applying critical updates
• Prevent performance degradation
• Prevent application memory faults
• Effectively apply system policies

To restart a device, follow the instruction below.

1. Click the Start bottom on the bottom left hand side of the task bar

2. Click the “Power” button

3. Click “Restart”

1. Click the “Apple” at the top left-hand side of your screen

1. Click “Restart“

To help protect the University’s computers and networks from cyber threats, FDU OIRT is implementing Application Control with privilege management. This feature provides all users with rights to install applications as needed while continuing to protect resources from unknown and malicious risks.

All software is typically installed from a setup file. Any setup file for an application should only be downloaded from the developer’s official site. For example, to install Google Chrome, the setup file should only be downloaded from Google’s official site (www.google.com).

Any setup file on a USB drive, CD drive, or any other removable media should only be installed if provided directly from the developer or other credible source.

By default, the setup file will be located within the Downloads folder

C:\users\yourusername\downloads\

In order to install software on a university laptop with Windows 10, follow the process defined below:

1. Right-click the setup file for the application to be installed
2. Click “Run with Administrative Privileges (Audited)” on the setup file

3. Provide a valid reason for installation and use of the application in the space provided and press “Continue”

The application will now be installed with administrative privileges.

By default, the app installer file will be located within the Downloads folder

Users > YourUserName > Downloads

1. Launch the FDU Self Service Portal app located in the Applications folder

2. Click on “* I need to install software“

3. Click the “Allow Install” button

4. Click “Thank you.” when prompted

5. Launch the application installer for the software package you want to install on your MacBook

Your macOS application will now be installed with administrative privileges.

As students begin their college journey, technology will play a key role in that experience. A reliable, capable laptop computer can play a significant role in helping you achieve success. With many options available in all different price ranges, it can be daunting to select the right one. Below are general guidelines to follow. Please keep in mind that as technology changes, it is also advisable to visit the developer of any specific software you plan to use heavily and check their recommended requirements.

General Studies

Laptops from reputable companies will be capable of handling the computer needs for most coursework.

Windows Computers

Below are recommended specifications for Windows 10 based laptops for general use.

	Budget	Mainstream	High-End
CPU	Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3	Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5	Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7
Hard Drive	250GB or higher	256GB SSD or higher	512GB SSD or higher
Graphics	Integrated	Integrated	Dedicated
Memory	8GB or higher	8GB or higher	16GB or higher

Apple Mac

Apple laptops vary greatly in price, but below are two starting options are below to base your choice upon:

CPU	MacBook Pro 13″ with Apple M1	MacBook Pro 16″ with Intel Core i7
Hard Drive	256GB SSD or higher	512GB SSD or higher
Graphics	Integrated	Dedicated
Memory	8GB or higher	16GB or higher

Multimedia, Engineering, & Video Programs

Multimedia and Engineering students rely heavily on graphics and processor intensive software. Due to this, specifications for the laptops below are higher to satisfy the needs of such demanding software titles.

	Windows	Apple
CPU	Intel 8th Gen Core i5 (or better) AMD 3rd Gen Ryzen 5 (or better)	Intel 8th-gen Core i5 (or better) Intel 8th-gen Core i7 recommended for AutoCAD use
Hard Drive	512GB SSD or higher	512GB SSD or higher
Graphics	Dedicated video card with 2GB of video memory (or higher) (4GB recommended for extensive Premiere Pro or AutoCAD use	Dedicated video card with 2GB of video memory (or higher) (4GB recommended for extensive Premiere Pro or AutoCAD use
Memory	8GB Minimum 16GB Recommended for HD Video Editing and Adobe After Effects use 32GB Recommended for 4k Editing	8GB Minimum 16GB Recommended for HD Video Editing and Adobe After Effects use 32GB Recommended for 4k Editing
Display	1440 x 900 / 1280 x 1080 (or better) 1920 x 1080 Recommended for AutoCAD use	1440 x 900 / 1280 x 1080 (or better) 1920 x 1080 Recommended for AutoCAD use

If you are in a specialized academic program and unsure of what hardware will meet your technical needs, please speak with your academic advisor, or reach out to the UTAC (University Technical Assistance Center) at (973)-443-8822 and open a ticket to discuss your needs.

Computer Discount Programs

Fairleigh Dickinson University students are eligible for discounts on laptops from certain manufacturers.

The following PC laptop accessories for university-owned Apple MacBook Pro and Lenovo laptops may be purchased from our approved vendors. Please use the following PC laptop accessories list and vendor contact information below to help guide you when obtaining optional laptop accessories.

Lenovo PC Laptop Accessories

Only one A/C adapter will be provided with the new Lenovo laptops. If a user needs a second A/C adaptor they will need to order the part below. The A/C adapters for the current Lenovo laptops will not be compatible with the new models.

Accessory	Description	Part Number	Cost
A/C Power Adapter	Lenovo AC power adapter (USB Type-C)	4X20M26252	$54.99 from Lenovo
A/C Power Adapter	Lenovo AC power adapter (USB Type-C)	4X20M26252	$52.59 from CDW-G
A/C Power Adapter	Lenovo AC power adapter (USB Type-C)	4X20M26252	$54.99 from GovConnection.com

Accessory	Description	Part Number	Cost
Multi-Monitor Docking Station	ThinkPad Universal USB-C Dock – This model is essential for connecting more than one external monitor, to up to three external monitors. Video Ports: 1 HDMI and 2 DisplayPort	40AY0090US	$227.99 from Lenovo $239.99 from B&H
Multi-Monitor Docking Station	ThinkPad Universal Thunderbolt 4 Dock – This model can support connecting one 8K display at 30Hz external monitor, and up to four 4K displays at 60HZ external monitors. Video Ports: 1 HDMI and 2 DisplayPort	40B00135US	$321.99 from Lenovo $339.99 from B&H $308.22 from CDW-G $328.26 from GovConnection.com
Single and Dual-Monitor Docking Station	ThinkPad Hybrid USB-C Dock – This model supports a single external monitor setup or dual external monitor setups, up to two UHD 4K resolution monitors. Video Ports: 2 HDMI and 2 DisplayPort	40AF0135US	$271.25 from B&H
Single Monitor Travel Hub or Docking Station	Lenovo Powered USB-C Travel Hub – This model supports a single external monitor setup. Features one ethernet port, one USB Type-A port, one USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A port, and one USB-C power port. Video Ports: 1 HDMI and 1 VGA port	4X90S92381	$104.99 from Lenovo $112.71 from CDW-G $101.16 from GovConnection.com

Keyboards will not need to be replaced for users that already have them. Users that are new to the PC laptop docking station setup may want to buy a wired USB keyboard. There are no IT requirements for purchasing keyboards; however, if users want to go with a basic model, they can order the below part number.

Accessory	Description	Part Number	Cost
Wired USB Keyboard	Lenovo Preferred Pro II USB Keyboard – US English	4X30M86879	$26.17 from CDW-G

There are no IT requirements for purchasing external wired USB mice; however, if a user wants to go with a basic model, they can order the below part number.

Accessory	Description	Part Number	Cost
USB Mouse	Lenovo Essential USB Mouse	4Y50R20863	$18.80 from CDW-G

There are no IT requirements for purchasing an external wireless keyboard and mouse combo set; however, if a user would like to go with a basic model, they can order the below part number.

Accessory	Description	Part Number	Cost
Wireless Keyboard	Logitech MK850 Performance Keyboard and Mouse (wireless)	920-008219	$67.07 from CDW-G

Users ordering the ThinkPad USB-C Dock Gen 2 Multi-Monitor Docking Station will need an accompanying monitor with at least an HDMI connection.

For users who already have a monitor and wish to use it with one of the new docking stations, your existing monitor will need to have either HDMI or Display Port (DP) connection. If your monitor only has Display Port (DP), you will need an HDMI to Display Port (DP) adapter. Users should check their current monitor connections for compatibility; if new monitors are required or desired, please choose from the list below.

Accessory	Description	Part Number	Cost
24″ External Monitor	Lenovo ThinkVision P24h-2L 23.8″ 16:9 QHD IPS Monitor Inputs: HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C	62B2GAR1US	$424.00 from B&H. This monitor includes a built-in USB Hub. This monitor is the preferred 24″ model to purchase
24″ External Monitor	LG 24BK750Y-B – LED monitor – Full HD (1080p) – 24″ Inputs: HDMI, DVI-D, DisplayPort	24BK750Y-B	$264.00 from CDW-G. This monitor includes a built-in USB Hub. This monitor is the preferred 24″ model to purchase if the Lenovo ThinkVision P24h-2L, listed above, is unavailable
24″ External Monitor	Samsung 24″ 1920×1080 FHD IPS Panel Monitor Inputs: HDMI, DisplayPort	F24T374FWN	$234.99 from CDW-G. This monitor does not include a built-in USB Hub
24″ External Monitor	Samsung 24″ 16:9 IPS Panel Display. Inputs: HDMI, DisplayPort	F24T452FQN	$249.99 from CDW-G. This monitor does include a built-in USB Hub
24″ External Monitor	ViewSonic VG2440 – LED monitor – Full HD (1080p) – 24″ Inputs: HDMI, DisplayPort	VG2440	$219.99 from CDW-G. This monitor includes a built-in USB Hub
27″ External Monitor	ThinkVision P27h-20 27-inch 16:9 QHD Monitor with USB Type-C. Inputs: HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C	61E9GAR6US	$330 from Lenovo. This monitor is on 5-6 months backorder, it is recommended to cancel your order with Lenovo if you have not already done so. You may purchase any of the alternative 27″ monitors listed below.
27″ External Monitor	LG 27BK750Y-B – LED monitor – Full HD (1080p) – 27″ Inputs: HDMI, DVI-D, DisplayPort	27BK750Y-B	$309 from CDW-G. This monitor includes a built-in USB Hub
27″ External Monitor	LG 27BK400H-B – LED monitor – Full HD (1080p) – 27″ Inputs: HDMI	27BK400H-B	$210 from CDW-G. This Monitor does not include a built-in USB Hub

Apple MacBook Pro Laptop Accessories

To obtain a price quote for any power adapters and or charge cables for a university-owned Apple MacBook laptop please contact Lisa Stadler-Kay at lstadler@fdu.edu.

Accessory	Description	Part Number	Cost
Single Monitor Docking Station or Hub	HYPER HyperDrive Power 9-in-1 USB Type-C Hub (Silver) – This model supports a single external monitor setup. One HDMI port supports video resolutions up to 4K at 30 Hz. Featuring three USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports, 1 USB Type-C Power Delivery port, one ethernet port, and one 3.5mm audio jack, plus SD and microSD card readers. Video Ports: 1 HDMI port with 4K video support	HD30F-SILVER	$79.99 from B&H.com. This model is the preferred single monitor hub to purchase
Dual-Monitor Docking Station or Hub	HYPER HyperDrive Viper 10-in-2 USB Type-C Hub (Space Gray) – This model is essential for connecting up to two external monitors. Features three USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports, one ethernet port, one 3.5mm audio jack, SD and microSD card readers, and USB Type-C with 60W of power delivery. Video Ports: 2 HDMI	HD392-GRAY	$109.99 from B&H.com. This model is the preferred dual-monitor hub to purchase
Single Monitor Docking Station or Hub	HYPER Hyperdrive 4-In-1 USB Type-C Hub – This model supports a single external monitor setup. Supports a single 4K display at 60 Hz via the one HDMI port. Featuring two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports and one USB Type-C port to deliver up to 100W of pass-through power to your laptop or tablet. Video Ports: 1 HDMI port with 4K video support	HD41	$59.99 from B&H.com. This model does not contain an ethernet port
Single Monitor Docking Station or Hub	HYPER HyperDrive 5-Port USB Type-C Hub – This model supports a single external monitor setup. Supports a single 3840 x 2160 resolution, 4K monitor at 60 Hz connection via the one HDMI port. Features two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports, one ethernet port, and one USB Type-C port to deliver up to 86W of power to your laptop or tablet. Video Ports: 1 HDMI port with 4K video support	HDMB2	$69.99 from B&H.com
Single Monitor Travel Hub or Docking Station	Lenovo Powered USB-C Travel Hub – This model supports a single external monitor setup. Features one ethernet port, one USB Type-A port, one USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A port, and one USB-C power port. Video Ports: 1 HDMI and 1 VGA port	4X90S92381	$112.71 from CDW-G. Please contact CDW-G for availability

Accessory	Description	Part Number	Cost
24″ External Monitor	ASUS ProArt PA247CV – LED monitor – Full HD (1080p) – 23.8″ Inputs: HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C	PA247CV	$277.30 from CDW-G. This monitor includes a built-in USB Hub

You may also refer to the Lenovo PC Laptop Accessories – Monitors section above to make an external monitor choice selection for the Apple MacBook Pro.

Accessories

There are no IT requirements for purchasing USB flash drives. USB 3.0 is recommended. Users are reminded about adhering to the Written Information Security Program (WISP). No WISP-protected data may be placed on external devices without specific authorization as indicated in the policy.

There are no IT requirements for purchasing external hard drives. USB 3.0 is recommended. Users are reminded about the Written Information Security Program (WISP). No WISP-protected data may be placed on external devices without specific authorization as indicated in the policy.

For a current list of approved printers and scanners, please reach out to the Purchasing Department. Please remember that most printers don’t have USB printer cables included upon purchase.

Purchasing

To purchase any of the laptop accessories listed above, please submit a PO to the Purchasing Department. Users need to get a quote from either vendor through the contact information below. Please reference the item numbers from the attached quotes. Unless stated otherwise, the products listed are currently available. Prices may vary. Other University approved vendor reseller information and common products that departments may be interested in purchasing can be found by visiting:

Departments should consolidate orders as much as possible. There is no additional discount for quantity. Departments should designate the ‘ship to’ to their respective department. Vendors’ contact information is listed below.

If you would like assistance in determining what monitor connection you are using, please contact the University Technical Assistance Center at (973)-443-8822 or by clicking the “Support” button at the top of this page.

Computing Services welcomes you to schedule your technology refresh appointment. The refresh will be performed on-site at both the Florham and Metropolitan Campuses from Monday, February 14, 2022, through Friday, March 4, 2022. All faculty and staff with Apple MacBook laptops are required to schedule a refresh appointment.

Refresh appointments can be booked for and will occur at the following locations:

Florham Campus:

Metropolitan Campus:

While Computing Services is checking all scheduled appointments to ensure Code42 backup is installed and properly working, it is a great extra step for each individual to do the same, especially if requesting an appointment within a few days.

At the request of the Data Security Incident Response Team (DSIRT), Computing Services will be checking for WISP compliance. If an individual schedules an appointment and is not in compliance with our WISP policy, their appointment will be rejected and they will be notified to re-schedule their appointment once they have successfully completed the WISP course. Employees are required to take a short self-directed training course once every two years to ensure WISP information remains top of mind.

The WISP training, entitled Understanding the Written Information Security Program, can be found at:

To ensure a smooth appointment, Computing Services recommends the following:

• Check and verify Code42 is installed and backing up your system (see the link below for: Review Code42 – Tutorial: Section 2 Part 4 Verifying a backup Progress .)
• Back up all personal documents to an external drive.
• Bring your mobile device with DUO Security application for DUO authentication processes.