The Computer Refresh Program provides standard computers for full-time, benefited employees whose positions are funded through UMass Lowell’s general operating budget.

Computers in the program are intended to meet all needs for general teaching and administrative use and are replaced on a five-year cycle using Information Technology (IT)-approved Windows or Apple models.

IT identifies eligible devices, coordinates ordering and configuration, schedules deployment, and collects the previous computer for proper recycling. Research and other specialized computers are not covered by the program and must be purchased by the department.

If you are experiencing problems with your refreshed computer, please contact Tech Services at 978-934-4357 for assistance and we will find a resource to help you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who qualifies for a replacement under the computer refresh program?

You qualify to participate in the computer refresh program if you are a full-time, benefitted employee, and are paid through the general operating budget of UMass Lowell. Self-funded or grant-funded employees are not eligible.

Which computers are replaceable under the computer refresh program?

Standard computers used for general teaching and administrative purposes are eligible for refresh.

This may include computers used for:

  • Instructional activities
  • Email and communication
  • Administrative work such as financial, student, or operational systems

Computers used primarily for research or specialized purposes are not included in the refresh program. Instead, these must be purchased by the department.

How do I get my primary computer refreshed?

Information Technology (IT) reviews campus inventory to identify eligible computers and will proactively reach out when your machine is ready to be replaced. If you believe your computer is due for refresh, but you haven't heard from IT, please contact us by email at: ITOrders@uml.edu. We're here to help!

  • If your computer is eligible, you will be asked to select a model from the standard hardware.
  • The standard desktop/laptop models are covered by the refresh program.
Can I choose my computer model?

Yes, all refresh computers must be selected from the IT-approved standard hardware list for Windows and Apple devices.

How long does it take to get my computer refreshed?

Once a model is selected:

  • IT will order, configure, and prepare the device
  • A technician will schedule an appointment to deploy the computer
  • Your previous device will be collected and properly recycled

As a reminder, all data from the previous machine should be backed up to OneDrive prior to your appointment.

I am new to the campus. How do I enroll in the computer refresh program?

You do not need to enroll into the program. Your assigned computer is entered into the IT asset database upon deployment. If you are a full-time, benefited employee and are paid through the general operating budget of UMass Lowell, you will be contacted when your system is eligible for replacement. It is a 5-year cycle. For example, if you receive a new computer in Fiscal Year (FY) 2021, you will be eligible in FY 2026.

I am a department head/admin and have a new employee. How do I buy that person a computer?

Unless the new hire is filling a vacated position, the department is responsible for purchasing a computer. If the new hire is filling a vacated position, the new employee will use the computer left by their predecessor.

For department funded purchases, send an email to: itorders@uml.edu and someone from Information Technology (IT) will contact you to discuss your options and answer any questions you may have.

I want to purchase computers for my research lab. How do I do this?

Research computers are not covered under the Computer Replenishment Program. For department funded purchases, send an email to: itorders@uml.edu and someone from Information Technology (IT) will contact you to discuss your options and answer any questions you may have.

Who qualifies for replaceable equipment under the computer replenishment program?

You qualify to participate in the Computer Replenishment Program if you are a full-time, benefited employee and are paid through the general operating budget of UMass Lowell. Self-funded / Grant-funded departments are not eligible.