What you need, what to buy,
and how it works

Laptop Information

All Lake Area Technical College students must have a laptop. Purchasing a laptop at the Lake Area Tech STAX Bookstore is required of students in specific programs, but we encourage all students to consider buying theirs through STAX.  If you are a student enrolled in a company sponsored program or receiving a Build Dakota Scholarship, please check with the Lake Area Tech Foundation Office to see if the laptop is covered as part of the agreement.

Programs requiring students to purchase a laptop through the bookstore include:

Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 3

  • Energy Operations/Energy Technology

Lenovo ThinkPad P16s Gen 4

  • Electronic Systems Technology
  • Precision Machining
  • Robotics
  • Photography/Media (or compatible system approved by Photography instructor)
  • Computer Information Systems
    • Graphic Design & Digital Communications (Macintosh system approved by Computer Information Systems instructor)

If your program is not listed above, you are still required to have a laptop for class that is compatible with one of the models offered by Lake Area Tech. However, purchasing a laptop from the STAX Bookstore is not mandatory. See laptop specs below.

**Lake Area Tech does not support Chromebooks.

ThinkPad E16 Gen 3 Information

$1190
Tax not included in price.

Specs

ThinkPad P16s Gen 4 Information

$2025
Tax not included in price.

Specs

Laptop FAQs

What do I do if I need help with my computer?

Professionally trained individuals are available at the Service Desk to assist with issues, questions, or minor repairs encountered with your Lake Area Tech laptop. The Service Desk is located in the IT Department.

Do I need to purchase my laptop from LATC?

All courses require a laptop. You do not need to purchase it through the STAX bookstore, but all bookstore units come with an accidental warranty and free IT support. Our IT staff cannot work on laptops purchased elsewhere, as it could void the warranty. Network and Internet usage is available at no charge on campus.

What do I do if my laptop is stolen?

A stolen laptop will be treated as a criminal offense and should be reported to the IT Department immediately. The IT Department will be able to provide local law enforcement with the information needed. Students will be required to complete a theft report with the Watertown Police Department. Students are responsible for their laptop.

What do I do if my laptop gets damaged?

Students are responsible for repair charges on damaged laptops not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty or the manufacturer’s Accidental Damage Protection (ADP) warranty.

Should I insure my laptop?

We highly recommend that students insure their laptop above and beyond the Accidental Damage Protection (ADP) warranty against theft, loss or damage. This can usually be done by adding a rider on a homeowner’s/renter’s policy.

Further Questions? Stop into the Information Technology Department or email Service.Desk@lakeareatech.edu.