Find a PC on Campus
If you need to use a computer on campus, we have a tool that can help you find an available machine or use the PC Availability tile in Beacon our Digital Coach app.
See how many PCs we have at each location, and which specific areas have computers available to use.
Short term laptop loans
You can borrow a laptop from our self-service LapSafe cabinets, these are situated in the Science Centre, Catalyst Building, Blackheath Lane and London. The LapSafe devices are all full Windows 10 laptops, with the usual Microsoft Office applications like Word and Excel as well as a number of web browsers, and can be borrowed for up to 24 hours.
They are perfect to borrow at the start of your day and keep with you around our campus. Take notes in lectures, browse the web for help during tutorials, do group work with your friends in the coffee shop - or even just check out the latest memes while taking a break.
You won't get a power supply or any kind of charger, so we wouldn't recommend taking them home, but as long as you have them back within 24 hours you can take them wherever you like.
How do I borrow one?
You can find the LapSafe cabinets in the Science Centre, the Catalyst Building, Blackheath Lane and London
- Tap Borrow on the LapSafe screen
- Scan your student ID card under the screen
- Follow the on screen prompts
- Scan your student ID card on the scanner in the column you are borrowing from
- Open the door, remove your laptop, and close the door
That's all there is to it. You might want to check that you can log in to the device OK.
Access to external funding for equipment
If you are an undergraduate or postgraduate student with a disability or specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia you may be eligible for Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSA).
If you are an apprenticeship student with a disability or specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia you may be eligible for the Learning Support Fund.
Both these funds can supply computer equipment and specialist software so for more information please email student-inclusion@staffs.ac.uk.
Using Your Own Device
Bringing your Own Device (BYOD) is supported and encouraged by the University where it can assist your studies. Most resources are available online and there is a range of standard software available free of charge while you are a student at the University.
Hardware requirements depend on the course you are studying, although we recommend laptops with a mimimum i5 processor and 8GB RAM.
Use of Chromebooks is not recommended, as not all standard University applications are compatible with these devices.
If you need advice on the hardware requirements needed to support your course, speak to your school/tutor.
Purchasing a Device
The Universities IT partner, Stone Technologies, can provide students with a 10% discount on items from their Stone Refurb site. All items from this site are professionally refurbished and come with a warranty. To get your discount please use the code SRHESU-Q22022 at checkout.
Stone Refurb Website