Support - Technology Support Services

Repair Policies
NMU Notebook Repair Policies
Apple Lenovo

Technology Support Services Appeal of Charges/Fees Form
Appeals for charges on your notebook may be submitted within 10 days of the date printed on the bill. Appeals will not be considered after that time. Refunds will be issued if the appeal is granted and the charges have been paid. Click here for the Appeal of Charges/Fees Form.

Student Employment Application
Applications for student employment can be filled out online** or in person at the Technology Support Services office, Harden Hall 116.
**NMU username and password are required to complete the online application.

Notebook Distribution Information

Students that are registered for Northern Michigan University classes and have tuition paid, are eligible to pick up a notebook computer.

Students will be issued a notebook computer that is 4 years old or less. Art & Design and Theatre and Dance majors will be issued an Apple notebook computer that is 4 years old or less.

Registered students considered part time (less than 12 credits for undergraduates or less than 8 credits for graduate students) will be assessed a TLC rental fee of $385.00 when a computer is issued. The TLC rental fee is charged to the student's NMU account. Art & Design and Theatre & Dance majors with a MacBook assignment will be charged an additional $250 fee per semester to cover the higher cost of the Apple notebook and additional software.

Each semester, notebook computer distribution is initially held at the Northern Center. Students who miss the initial distribution can pick their laptop at TSS which is located in room 116 of Harden Hall. New students will be mailed a letter near mid-August with an assigned distribution date and time. Continuing students will be notified via their NMU email account of their assigned date and time if an exchange of their computer is required.

Notebook Computer Dates and Information

Fall 2025

Any Questions? Contact Asset Management at thinkpad@nmu.edu
or Call 227-2822, 227-1256, or 227-2818

Technology Support Services (TSS -- formally known as the Helpdesk and Micro Repair) are committed to providing the highest level of quality support to NMU students, faculty, and staff. We support NMU network connections, network services, and NMU issued software and computers, including notebooks issued to students as part of NMU's TLC Program. Limited support for other systems may be provided or referred to other service providers on campus as available. Help is available by phone, walk-in, or online. Please have your NMUIN or UserID ready when contacting us.

NMU TLC Notebook Computer Use Agreement

Northern Michigan University
Teaching, Learning, & Communication Notebook Computer Use Agreement

I agree to accept possession of the notebook “Computer System” from Northern Michigan University (“NMU”) solely for my use as a student and to fully comply with the following terms and conditions:
 

• The “Computer System” consists of the notebook computer and all related hardware (such as NMU model dependent manufacturer accessories and adapters).  The Computer System is and will remain the PROPERTY OF NORTHERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY.

• I must remain enrolled at NMU for the fall and winter semesters and pay all required tuition and fees to have use of the Computer System.
• The “Computer System” provided to you remains, at all times, the property of NMU.  Prior to returning the computer to NMU you are responsible to backup and delete any data/information from the computer which you wish to keep private.  NMU will promptly (as soon as practicable) erase the hard drive in compliance with the Department of Defense standards.
• I may retain use of the Computer System for the SUMMER if I am enrolled in summer courses or pre-enrolled for the fall semester at NMU and understand that I may be required to pay NMU a non-refundable deposit/fee due on the summer tuition payment deadline date.

• I AGREE TO RETURN THE COMPUTER SYSTEM TO NMU UPON DEMAND OR NOTIFICATION BY NMU FOR NON-PAYMENT OF REQUIRED FEE OR DEPOSIT, GRADUATION FROM NMU, WITHDRAWAL FROM NMU, SUSPENSION FROM NMU, OR OTHER TERMINATION OF THIS AGREEMENT IN THE SAME CONDITION AS WHEN I RECEIVED POSSESSION OF THE COMPUTER SYSTEM, REASONABLE WEAR AND TEAR EXCEPTED.  If the computer is returned to NMU because of death, NMU will copy the user data prior to erasing the computer’s hard drive and will retain the copy for up to six (6) months.  If, during the six (6) month retention period, a party who has a legal right to the copy (as defined by Michigan law), makes written request to NMU for the copied data/information, NMU will provide the party with all non-copyrightable data/information from the copy.

• IF I DO NOT IMMEDIATELY, AFTER DEMAND, NOTIFICATION, OR THE RETURN DATE, RETURN THE COMPUTER SYSTEM TO NMU, NMU IS AUTHORIZED TO DO ANY OR ALL OF THE FOLLOWING, WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE:

• WITHHOLD GRADES, TRANSCRIPTS, OR DIPLOMA
• ASSESS A LATE FEE OF $15 PER DAY UP TO THE COST OF A NEW COMPUTER SYSTEM ($1,000)
• SEEK CRIMINAL PROSECUTION (UP TO AND INCLUDING FELONY CHARGES) AND OR CIVIL DAMAGES SIMULTANEOUSLY,
• IMMEDIATELY LOCATE AND REPOSSESS THE COMPUTER SYSTEM
• RECOVER ATTORNEY’S FEES AND COURT COSTS

• I agree to exclusive venue and jurisdiction in any state court in Marquette County, Michigan.  Any notice may be sent by regular or certified mail to my last known address.  I agree to accept the delivery of legal notices through any means of public notification. By executing this Agreement the parties consent to having this Agreement executed in electronic form and dealing with each other for all purposes relating to this Agreement, electronically.
• I am responsible for the costs (not to exceed the amount indicated):

• $75 per occurrence, of any needed repair of the Computer System not covered by manufacturer’s warranty (claims must be filed within the term of the lease and 10 days of occurrence for claim to be eligible for coverage by insurance carrier)
• $500 per occurrence, for the replacement of the computer in case of theft upon proper filing of a police report; police report must be filed within the term of the lease and 3 days of occurrence (claims must be filed within  the term of the lease and 10 days of occurrence for claim to be eligible for coverage by insurance carrier)
• $1,000 per occurrence for failure to return the Computer System
• $1,000 per occurrence in the case of malicious damage to property

• The Software is included with the Computer System under the terms of the software license of the Software manufacturer.  I agree to comply with all applicable NMU and software manufacturer copyright rules and other regulations regarding any software installed in the Computer System. 
• I understand that the Computer System is issued to me for my personal use as an enrolled student at NMU.  I will not sell, give, or loan the Computer System to anyone else.  I will adhere to all applicable NMU rules and regulations governing the use of the Computer System and the NMU network including the NMU Acceptable Use Policy, the Student Code, and all other federal, state, and local laws.

• NMU HEREBY DISCLAIMS ALL EXPRESS AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, RELATING TO THE COMPUTER AND SOFTWARE.  Any warranty for the Computer System or its components and accessories is provided only by the manufacturer.

• I agree to accept the Computer, the Software, and related Peripherals “as is.”  In no event shall NMU be liable to me or my guardian, personal representative, or heirs for any incidental, special, indirect, or consequential damage of whatever nature arising out of any claim, whether in contract, tort, or otherwise, alleging NMU’s failure to perform its obligations under this Agreement or its breach of any duty, common law or otherwise, owed to me with respect to this Agreement or the Computer System. 
• I authorize NMU to charge any fees, deposits, costs, or liabilities arising under this Agreement against my student account at NMU.

TLC General Information

Over 9,000 students, faculty, and staff are ongoing participants in NMU's Teaching, Learning, and Communication (TLC) notebook initiative.

Each TLC participant receives a ThinkPad or a MacBook (A&D or TH majors) model notebook computer; Technology Support Services office for software and hardware assistance are available via walk-in, telephone, email, and internet.  Insurance coverage for accidental damages ($75 fee) and theft ($500 fee) is also provided.  Notebooks are pre-configured for internet network connectivity.

MacBooks are provided for students declaring Art and Design or Theatre and Dance as their primary major. An additional fee of $250 per semester ($500 per year) is required to cover the higher cost of the MacBook and its related software.

The IT Web site principally contains technical information and software updates for NMU ThinkPads. Information about the TLC ThinkPad program, policies, and issues are available at the NMU Web site.

Notebook Distribution Times

Click here to view Notebook Distribution information.

Notebook Computer Return Procedure

When the Technology Support Services office is closed  Computers may be returned to NMU Police Department 24/7.

Notebook Computer Return Information. 

The immediate return of the NMU notebook is required with any of the following; complete withdrawal from NMU, graduation from NMU, non-payment of required fees, or notification by NMU for the notebook computer's return.

• The notebook computer should be returned to the TSS office Harden Hall 116, or to NMU Police Department.
• The notebook computer system must be returned in the same condition as it was issued, less reasonable wear and tear.
• Make sure the following components are returned with the notebook computer:
  • AC power adapter and cord
• You will receive a receipt at time of the return that will be signed by you and the staff person who is accepting the returned notebook computer.
• Please call Asset Management at (906) 227-2822, or (906) 227-2818, the TSS at (906) 227-2468 if you have any questions.
• DO NOT leave the notebook computer in your residence hall room or with a friend if you are withdrawing from school. You are responsible for the replacement cost of the Notebook computer if it is not returned to the TSS office, Harden Hall 114, or the Police Department.

Notebook computers may be sent via UPS or USPS to the following address:
Asset Management
Harden Hall 116
Northern Michigan University
1401 Presque Isle Avenue Marquette, MI 49855

Shipping: United Parcel Service or United States Postal Service
No C.O.D. packages accepted
Insurance is recommended: package should be insured for a minimum of $1,000.

**Conditions: The notebook computer is not considered returned until it is received and all issued components are accounted for. Should any components be missing or damaged, liability will be assessed in accordance with the NMU Notebook Computer Use Agreement's terms and conditions. Failure to return the Notebook computer may result in late fees of up to $1,000 and criminal prosecution.

Return Location & Times Fall and Winter semesters

Return the Notebook computer to: Technology Support Services office, room 116 of Harden Hall during normal university work hours.  NMU Police Department will accept returns 24/7.

Required Return Dates The immediate return of the notebook computer is required upon Graduation from NMU or if you will not be returning for the next semester.

Fall and Winter Semesters The NMU issued notebook computer must be returned no later than the close of business on the Tuesday following commencement exercises.

Summer semester The notebook computer must be returned no later than the close of business the day grades are due.

Example: If you are registered for classes, leave for the summer or winter break and decide not to return to NMU, the computer's return is due as follows.

• Registered for Summer and/or Fall classes. Classes are then dropped before the semester begins; the immediate return of the computer is required. For Fall classes dropped during the summer months, late fees will begin two weeks after the classes are dropped or close of business the day grades are due. If the computer is being shipped and you want to avoid additional late fees while the computer is in transit, contact Asset Management with the tracking number of the computer package. Late fees and collections will end on the date that Asset Management confirms the tracking number.
• Registered for Winter classes. Classes are dropped before the semester begins; the computer is due no later than the first day of the beginning of the Winter semester.

Please follow the return procedures.

Notebook Computers For Summer Continuing students: Students who attended classes through the Winter semester and have pre-registered for the upcoming Fall semester, no later than the Tuesday when Winter semester grades are due, may continue to use the notebook computer over the summer break. The student must pay their Fall semester tuition by the date indicated on the tuition billing. If tuition is not paid, the notebook computer must be returned by the tuition due date. Late fees will begin the day after the Fall tuition due date. If tuition is not paid and the notebook computer is not returned by the tuition deadline, NMU will begin collection procedures to recover the notebook computer. A student who terminates their connection with the university must return the notebook computer immediately. If a student drops their Fall registration before tuition is due then the notebook computer must be returned immediately. Student's that are in possession of an End of Life (EOL) model will exchange the EOL notebook computer for a newer model during their assigned distribution time. (NOTE: This does not include those students that purchased their EOL notebook computer). Assigned distribution days and times will be sent via NMU email in August prior to the distribution.

Continuing students registered for Summer but not continuing in Fall: Students who attended classes through the Winter semester that are pre-registered for the upcoming Summer session may continue to us the notebook computer during the Summer session. If a student that took classes in the Summer semester and then decides to continue in the Fall semester and has registered for classes no later than the Tuesday in August that Summer grades are due, may continue to use the notebook computer if not notified of a need to exchange it. If Fall tuition is not paid and the notebook computer is not returned by the tuition deadline, NMU may begin collection procedures to recover the notebook computer. Non-payment of tuition implies a non-return intention and this status is flagged to Asset Management.  

New students registered for Summer session only (not continuing in Fall semester). Computers are available for rent at the Technology Support Services office for NMU students attending classes ONLY during the Summer semester. Call (906) 227- 2822 for costs and any additional information.

New students registered for Summer, and planning to continue in the Fall semester.  Notebook computers will be issued from the Technology Support Services office for students who but are enrolled for the Summer and Fall semesters.  As long as the student’s Fall tuition obligation is met on time, there will be no charge for the summer notebook usage.  If the tuition obligation is not met by the tuition due date, the student will be charged $ 250 for the Summer usage and the standard late fee charges that occur between the Fall tuition due date and the return of the notebook.

Fees

-Asset Management: $50.00 and up to $1000.00 depending upon circumstances as listed below.
-Asset Management hold removal fee, charged by elapsed time from due date: $50.00 for days 0-31, $75 for days 32-62, and $100 for days 62 or more. 
-Failure to return: Civil and or criminal action may be sought. Fees up to $1,000.
-User is responsible for computer replacement or repair costs, filing fees, attorney fees and all court fees.
-Insurance fee: For each occurrence, user is responsible for the first $75.00 for repairs that are not covered under warranty.
Examples: damage from liquid spills, dropping, as well as extreme hot or cold.

-Late fee: Assessed $15.00 per day or $40.00 per week, whichever is less for computers that are not returned by the deadline date.
-Malicious Destruction: A $1,000.00 replacement cost will be charged to the user. Criminal charges may be filed that might result in suspension or incarceration.
-Stolen fee: User is responsible for the first $500.00 of the replacement cost of the computer.

Hardware Repair Contact Information:

Technology Support Services office - Harden Hall #116
Northern Michigan University
1401 Presque Isle Marquette, MI 49855
thinkpad@nmu.edu
Phone: (906) 227-1192

Asset Management Contact Information:

Asset Management
Northern Michigan University
1401 Presque Isle Marquette, MI 49855
thinkpad@nmu.edu
Phone: (906) 227-2822 or 2818

Page Last Updated: November 2024

NMU Laptop purchase information

Notebook computers become available for purchase when a NMU student graduates. 

Spring 2025 Purchase Period: Purchases begin TBD.  

To be eligible to purchase:

• The NMU student must be a participant in the TLC program.
• If special software for class requirements has been installed it will be removed, the computer MUST be reimaged with the OEM software image.  Software removal must be done before students are eligible to purchase their computer. PLEASE REMEMBER TO SAVE YOUR FILES.

All computer purchases will be processed using the on-line purchase web site. Payment may be made by check (checking account number and the bank’s routing number is needed) or credit card (Discover, MasterCard or VISA).

To purchase the computer using the on-line purchase site, the following information will be required:

• The serial number of the computer that is being purchased.
• NMU user ID & password

Continuing students that purchase their computer will be issued a replacement computer before the start of their next semester. The TSS web site will have distribution dates and times approximately two weeks before notebook distribution.

NMU Laptops-Student Responsibility

During the service cycle period, the student may be responsible for repair costs if computer is damaged by misuse, modification, unsuitable physical or operating environments, or improper maintenance by the user. Students are also responsible for accidental damage and computer theft with an insurance fee of $75 and $500, respectively, applied to the student's NMU account.  If a computer is stolen, follow the stolen procedure. Charges for the following parts will be placed on the students account if they are issued and not returned.

• AC POWER ADAPTER
• BATTERY

Please review your NMU TLC Agreement for specifics. The following is not covered under warranty:

• LCD panel cracked by applying excessive force or from being dropped
• Scratched (cosmetic) parts
• Cracked or broken plastic parts, broken latches, broken pins, or broken connectors caused by excessive force
• Damage caused by liquid spilled into the system
• Damage caused by the improper insertion of a PC Card or the installation of an incompatible card
• Damage caused by foreign materials
• Forgotten computer BIOS password (making the computer unusable)

The following symptoms might indicate damage caused by non warranted activities:

• Missing parts might be a symptom of unauthorized service or modification
• Sticky keyboard keys as a result of liquid spills.

Students are responsible for the first $500.00 of the replacement cost for the computer.  Please inquire with your insurance company if your policy will cover the $500.00 stolen fee or if an additional policy can be purchased. In the case of a stolen computer follow these steps:

1. Notify the Asset Management of theft at 227-2818, 2822, or thinkpad@nmu.edu.
2. Contact the appropriate law enforcement agency.
   • If the computer is stolen from an on-campus location, report the theft to the NMU Police Department at 227-2151 to obtain a police report.
   • If the computer is stolen from off-campus, contact the local law enforcement agency to obtain a police report.
3. Provide a copy of the police report to the NMU Asset Manager for processing.
4. Complete NMU Insurance Claim form that is available at the Technology Support Service office, Harden Hall,116.

Theft/Loss Prevention

1. Never leave the computer unattended.
2. Treat the computer like it is a purse or wallet.
3. If you turn in your computer for repair,replacement or return, get a receipt from TSS office.
4. Never loan out the computer.
5. Do not leave the computer in your vehicle.
6. No one from NMU should ask for the computer, except in the case of withdrawal from NMU, or for exchange when the computer needs repair or replacement.