Category Archives: Surface

12.09.15
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Windows Tablet Standard

The Information Technology Services department has named a standard tablet that runs the Windows Operating System. The standard Windows tablets are Microsoft Surface Pro 3 and Microsoft Surface 3. The tablet selection was made this past May and the review team included members from IT and the Accounting department. This selection of a standard Windows tablet does not effect or replace the standard iPad options.

The review team looked at several different models and several different configurations before narrowing the selection down to just a few. During the initial discussions, it was determined that two options would be available as a standard, a High-End model and a Low-End model. The High-End model included things like a faster and more powerful processor, more memory, larger storage drive, and larger screen size. The specifications could allow a user to use the tablet as laptop and run more power intensive applications without losing function of the tablet, similar to a laptop. The Low-End model included things like a mid-grade processor, less memory, lower storage capacity, and smaller screen. This tablet option was selected for users that wanted/needed a tablet, but didn’t need the power to run resource heavy applications. This tablet is more for email, web browsing, and document modification.

The specifications for the selected tablets are as follows:

  • Microsoft Surface Pro 3 (High-End)
    • Processor – Intel Core i5 1.9GHz
    • Memory – 8GB RAM
    • Storage – 256GB Hard Drive
    • Screen Size – 12″ Touchscreen
    • Stylus Included
    • Keyboard Cover Included
    • 3 Year Warranty
  • Microsoft Surface 3 (Low-End)
    • Processor – Quad-core Intel Atom x7-Z8700
    • Memory – 4GB RAM
    • Storage – 128GB Hard Drive
    • Screen Size – 10.8″ Touchscreen
    • Stylus Included
    • Keyboard Cover Included
    • 3 Year Warranty

The decision to select two Microsoft Surface tablets for the High-End and Low-End was consistency between the layout and use of the tablet. Also, the ability to image and troubleshoot issues on a single brand is much easier for IT to manage. These tablets are being added to the Sehi purchase portal and to the standard purchase product list within the Ferris State University Technology Purchase Portal. Look for these to be added shortly. If you have any questions regarding the tablet selection or options, please contact the Technology Assistance Center for more information.