Information Technology Hardware Locker

Questions

  • How do I quickly swap my broken laptop for a loaner?
  • Where is the Information Technology (IT) hardware locker on campus?
  • How do I use the IT locker cabinet to get a replacement laptop?
  • My laptop stopped working and I need a computer immediately — what do I do?
  • How do I get a code to open the IT hardware locker?
  • What is the IT equipment locker and where is it located?
  • Can I get an emergency loaner laptop outside of Tech Hub hours?

Environment

This article applies to all Bowdoin College faculty, staff, and students who need an emergency laptop replacement due to hardware failure. The IT hardware locker cabinets provide quick access to loaner laptops when continuing to work while a device is being repaired.

  • Who: All Bowdoin faculty, staff, and students
  • What: Emergency laptop swap using electronically controlled locker cabinets
  • Scope: The hardware locker is for emergency swaps only — the Service Desk must be contacted first to receive an access code. For planned short-term equipment loans, see Information about the IT Loaning Center in the Related Articles section.

Resolution

Locker locations

The IT hardware locker cabinet holds 10 electronically controlled doors and is used to swap a non-functioning laptop for a working loaner.

Bretford electronic locker station with keypad, digital display, and multiple lockable compartments for device charging or storage.

There are two hardware locker cabinets on campus:

  • Smith Union basement — near the mail room, to the left of the vending machines
  • Thorne/Coles Tower breezeway — in the breezeway between Thorne Hall and Coles Tower, where the ATM machine used to be

Coles Tower Technology Locker

How to use the hardware locker

  1. Contact the Service Desk by phone at (207) 725-3030. Explain that a laptop swap is needed due to hardware failure.
  2. A Service Desk staff member will provide a numeric access code and direct to the appropriate locker location.
  3. Go to the locker cabinet and tap the small digital touchscreen on the front to wake it up.
  4. Enter the code provided by the Service Desk. One of the 10 doors will open.
  5. Remove the loaner laptop and power adapter from the open compartment.
  6. Place the non-functioning laptop into the cabinet and close the door. The door locks automatically.
Forgot something? The access code remains active for a short time after first use, so the same slot can be re-opened if needed.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
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Related Articles (4)

Information Technology Loaning Center
Explains how to borrow technology equipment from the Bowdoin IT Loaning Center, including what devices are available, loan duration, pickup location, and how to submit a borrowing request. For faculty, staff, and students.
Information Technology Loaning Center FAQs
Frequently asked questions about borrowing equipment from the Bowdoin IT Loaning Center, including loan duration, data access on borrowed laptops, and what to do if you need an extended loan. For all Bowdoin faculty, staff, and students.
Technology Support Options and Hours
Overview of all ways to contact Bowdoin IT for technology support, including walk-in, phone, live chat, and email options. Includes current hours for the Tech Hub, Service Desk, and live chat. Applies to all students, faculty, and staff.
The Tech Hub
Information about the Tech Hub, Bowdoin IT's walk-up support service located in Smith Union. Covers who the Tech Hub supports, what services it offers, operating hours, and how to make an appointment or join the waitlist.