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Custom self-built custom workstations/desktops are computers built by purchasing computer components separately, then building the computer yourself.  Self-built custom workstations/desktops are highly discouraged and should only be reserved to meet a critical technical requirement.  Self-built options are not an avenue to reduce the financial burden of a vendor-specific compute device such as Dell, Lenovo, or Apple. There are hidden overhead costs to supporting self-built compute devices the user/group will inherit.

If a faculty research group opts to pursue a self-built custom device, the hardware components must meet university standards and compliance.  The research group will inherit the obligation of building the system correctly before the ECE-IT Office begins the installation of the operating system.  If the ECE-IT Office encounters any technical difficulties with the custom-built device, the research group assumes liability and will need to work with the part's manufacturer or vendor(s) the part was purchased from to resolve the issue.

Note:  The Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chipset is required.  This must be purchased with any custom self-built compute device, regardless of operating system.