Office of Sponsored Programs
Loaner Laptop Program
Overview
Traveling with mobile devices involves multiple risks. Along with the loss of data, losing a device can allow malicious actors to gain access to your personal or professional accounts and information. Accessing unsecured networks, such as those at airports and hotels, can expose your device to being hacked. Travel to some countries with certain data contained in your devices may also trigger U.S. export control laws.
The Loaner Laptop Program is sponsored by the Office of Research and Economic Development (ORED), in collaboration with Information Technology Services (ITS). The Program provides a limited number of “clean” loaner laptops, free of charge, to Tennessee Tech researchers traveling internationally to conduct university funded/sponsored travel.
This program aims to:
- Prevent the risk of data loss via laptop theft or confiscation from immigration officials
- Mitigate exposure of the Tennessee Tech network to viruses/malware from potentially infected laptops
- Limit the disclosure of confidential information and intellectual property
- Comply with federal research security guidelines such as the National Security Presidential Memorandum 33
Please note that Tennessee Tech employees are prohibited from bringing any university-owned devices other than a device provided under this Loaner Laptop Program to the following countries:
- People’s Republic of China
- The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
- The Russian Federation
- The Islamic Republic of Iran
This applies even if you are merely transiting through these countries at some point during your travel.
Our loaner laptops are configured to balance security and convenience, but are not intended to replace your usual, everyday “work” laptop. ORED and ITS will consider requests to install specialized software or applications that are available through Tennessee Tech. Licensing agreements for the requested software or applications must include international usage rights.
Loaner laptops will come with a carrying case and a charging cable.
Eligibility
Tennessee Tech researchers traveling internationally to conduct university or sponsor funded travel.
Program Requirements
- Loaner laptops are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Submitting a request does not guarantee that a laptop will be available.
- The length of checkout cannot exceed 30 calendar days.
- You must complete and submit your request no later than two weeks prior to your departure date.
- The laptop must be picked up within 2-3 business days prior to your travel departure date or your reservation will be cancelled.
- The borrower must be physically present and provide their Eagle Card to check out the laptop.
- The laptop must be returned within 5 business days of your travel return date.
- Borrower is responsible for any damage or loss to the laptop and provided accessories.
Requesting a Loaner Laptop
Click on the Request a Loaner Laptop button below to submit your request. (Prior to submitting a request for a loaner laptop, please review the Foreign Travel Security guidance provided on the Office of Research and Economic Development website.)