Updated May 2025
Through the Commonwealth of MA ITC73 State Contract, NOBLE works with Dell to get
discount prices for hardware to best meet our libraries’ needs. Dell has rebranded their
OptiPlex desktop and Latitude laptop models to Dell Pro, for both models.
The pricing is further discounted than the state contract pricing due to NOBLE’s group
purchasing volume – saving $115 (20%) per unit on the Public configured desktop, and
$126 (16%) per unit on the Staff configured desktop. Discount pricing on laptops is also
available.
Recommended for New Purchases
The standard staff desktop is equipped with Intel Core i5 processor, 256GB SSD, and
16GB memory. Evergreen is found to work optimally with 16GB memory, therefore that
is the standard for the staff desktop. Wi-Fi installed and wireless keyboard/mouse
combo are optional upgrades.
The standard public desktop is equipped with Intel Core i3 processor, 256GB SSD,
and 16GB memory now as the standard. Wi-Fi installed is an optional upgrade.
Three 16” laptop options are included; the main difference is the Intel Core processor.
The low end model is equipped with the Core 5 120U, the mid-level has the Core Ultra 5
235U, which improves performance and battery quite a bit over the Core 5. Both are
equipped with 256GB solid state drive. The high-end has the Core Ultra 5 236V and
512GB solid state drive.
Monitors are available to purchase separately. Options include 22′′ and 24′′ displays
with fully adjustable stands. A 24” videoconferencing model with built-in camera,
speakers, and mic, and a 24′′ touchscreen model. The larger 24” display is
recommended for staff functions, in particular for technical services. Additional
peripherals are also available.
Please see the Dell Equipment Costs 05-30-2025 for the above equipment costs and full configurations.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
- Please contact Paula Cartolaro, Office Administrator, paula@noblenet.org, for any specific desktop or laptop needs for Dell quotes using our group purchase ability as a customer under the state program.
- Donated desktops should meet the minimum requirements detailed for their uses below.
Windows Hardware Requirements
We strongly recommend upgrading to Windows 11 Pro on all desktops if any are still
running Windows 10 Pro or Windows 7 Pro. Windows 10 support officially ends on October 14, 2025, and Windows 7 support ended January 14, 2020. Therefore, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates, bug fixes, or technical support. This would leave the desktops open to security vulnerabilities.
Windows 11 minimum hardware requirements are:
• Processor: 1 GHz or faster with two or more cores
• Memory: 4 GB of RAM
• Hard Drive Storage: 64GB or larger
• Graphics Card: Compatible with DirectX 12 or later, and WDDM 2.0 driver.
• Display: High Definition 720p Resolution
Libraries must take steps to keep Windows up-to-date through free downloads of
service packs and security alerts from the Microsoft website to help prevent serious
disruptions from security vulnerabilities. Desktops can be set up to download these
updates automatically. We also recommend anti-virus software set up with automatic
downloads and a security product like Deep Freeze for public desktops.
Long-Range Planning
Machine Replacement: We recommend that libraries should continue to plan to
replace at least 20% of their desktops every year – a five-year replacement plan. Ideally
the best and most powerful desktops should go to upgrade the prime patron-service
locations, with the relieved desktops going to less, intensive uses, such as
Internet/catalog stations for the public.
The revised desktop requirements we recommend are moderate. Libraries have
asked for hearty, but practical equipment specifications which may be needed to justify
requests to local funding authorities who sometimes seek to substitute minimal
equipment. Desktops intended for extensive digital image manipulation, video work or
gaming will be more satisfying with improved hardware.