BioComputing

Computer Related Purchases

Hardware and Software

The UTK Office of Information Technology http://oit.utk.edu/ provides access to all computer related products available for purchase at "contract" prices.  Their web site provides easy access to vendor sites that allow one to specify/configure a new computer and request a quote.  To purchase a new computer you'll need to access the web site, select and configure the system of choice, and generate a quote.  The next step, for Division of Biology clients, is to contact the Biology Business Office and place your order referencing the quote number generated in the previous step.  Printers and software are also available and are procured in much the same fashion.  You may also purchase software and peripherals directly from the UC Computer Store, according to your departments internal purchasing procedures.

We (BioComputing) provide assistance in the specification/selection of hardware and verify it's compatibility with UTK and Division of Biology.  We will do everything for you, except place the order.  You have to actually place the order with the Biology Business Office.

Hardware Recommendations

In choosing computer systems and printers, we recommend that one individual be responsible for specifying and configuring your computer system.  We'll gladly provide this service, however you are not required to allow us to do this for you.  Some of our clients prefer to choose and specify their computers personally and others have members of their staff or research lab perform this function.  If we (BioComputing) specify and configure your computer system, one of our staff of computer professionals will be responsible for the entire operation.  In this way we can guarantee that the selection will be compatible with the UTK and BioComputing infrastructure and operate as planned.  We will be more than happy to provide any assistance and support you require, whichever avenue you choose.

Software

We (BioComputing) purchase almost all of our software directly from the UC Computer Store.  We'll be happy procure and install software and peripherals for you if you like.  In order to purchase items for you, at the UC Computer Store, we'll need a message (E-Mail to BioComputing@tennessee.edu) stating what you wish us to purchase and a account number for the charges.  For purchases that will be charged to department accounts, please copy the Department Head/Chair on your request.

Software Licensing

All state employees are required by law to adhere to software licensing agreements.  Most all applications require the purchase of a license in order to install and use the product.  Most applications also require a separate license for each installation of the product; please refer to the specific licensing information for each product.  We (BioComputing) do not manage, track, or monitor software licensing on individual computer systems.  The owner/user of the computer system is responsible for maintaining proof of licensing.  The UTK computing policy states that a listing of licensed products be available for every computer system.

Our (BioComputing) standard policy is to install the applications requested by the owner/user and, following the installation, send a message to the individual requesting that he or she purchase a license at their convenience.  You may purchase the license yourself, or we'll be happy to do it for you.  In either case please keep a copy of the purchase invoice (ticket) on file for proof of ownership.