Questions
- How do I return a College-issued laptop or iPad that is old, broken, or no longer needed?
- What should I do before bringing my device to the Tech Hub for return?
- I am leaving Bowdoin — what is the process for turning in my computer or iPad?
- Do I need to include the charger and accessories when I return a device?
- What happens to my data and accounts when I return a managed device?
- Should I factory reset my laptop before returning it?
- Does my device need to be working to return it?
Environment
This article applies to Bowdoin community members returning College-issued laptops or iPads that are old, broken, no longer in use, or when departing the College. Returns must be made in person at the Tech Hub during regular business hours. This article covers macOS and iPadOS devices managed by Jamf Pro Self Service, and Windows or macOS devices managed by Intune Company Portal.
Resolution
- Confirm you need to return the device. If the device is old, broken, no longer in use, or you are leaving Bowdoin, it must be returned. Returns are made at the Tech Hub during business hours. See Technology Support Options and Hours in the Related Articles section for current hours.
- Back up any personal files you want to keep. Save personal files to cloud storage such as OneDrive, or to an external drive. For iPad, you can back up using iCloud or a computer. If the device will not power on, skip backup and continue with the return process.
- Sign out of personal accounts (if used). On a Mac, open System Settings, click your name at the top of the sidebar, then click Sign Out. If Find My is on, turn it off when prompted. On an iPad, open the Settings app, tap your name, then tap Sign Out. See How to turn off "Find My" and sign out of iCloud on an iPad in the Related Articles section for iPad-specific steps.
- Leave management tools in place. Do not remove the Self Service app (Jamf Pro) or the Company Portal app (Intune). These tools are used to securely erase and decommission the device after it is returned.
- Prepare the device for drop-off. Gather the laptop or iPad, power adapter, charging cable, and any College-issued accessories such as a case, keyboard, stylus, or dongles. Remove personal items and wipe down the device if needed. Leave any College asset tags or labels in place. Know your device passcode and login password, as staff may need you to unlock the device to verify the return.
- Do not factory reset the device yourself. Bowdoin IT uses Jamf Pro or Intune to securely erase managed devices. A self-initiated factory reset may interfere with this process.
- Bring the device to the Tech Hub during business hours. If the device is broken or will not power on, bring it in anyway. Include any damaged components such as a broken charger so they can be processed together. At drop-off, staff will record the serial number and condition, then initiate a secure erase using Bowdoin's management tools.
After return: Your College device will be securely wiped and removed from management. Any personal data remaining on the device will be erased as part of the decommissioning process.
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.