Devices

Typically, most modern devices 5 years or newer will be the requirements. A smartphone is not an acceptable device for BYOD. 

The only hard requirements we have are that BYO devices must be:

• Compatible with the network and learning technologies in use at HOPE

• Secure with an up to date operating system & web browser, and no malicious or illegal software installed

• In good working order fit for use in class and able to operate for a whole day (without needing to be charged at school)

Compatible

The device needs to be able to connect to the HOPE wireless network and learning systems. It should be compatible for WiFi 6 (802.11ax), WiFi 5 (802.11ac), WiFi 4 (802.11n). Not to worry, most devices 5 years or newer meet these standards.

The device most also have a modern browser installed (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge). Devices can have more than one browser installed, therefore we ask that Chrome be installed and used as the primary browser to access school systems such as SEQTA, Google Classroom, and Gmail.

Secure

In order to protect the privacy and safety of your child, other students and staff, all devices need to be secure against known threats:

1. The most important step by far is to keep the operating system and any installed software (especially web browsers) up to date.

2. The next most important step is to only install software you need, and only from reputable vendors.

3. At a distant third, and only if you still have concerns, you may choose to install additional security or antivirus software. However, make sure it is from a reputable vendor and is kept up to date or you may actually be increasing your risk.

Operating Systems must be supported by the vendor (Microsoft, Apple, Google) for your device hardware and software version while also be able to receive security updates.

In Good Working Order

The device needs to be able to run on battery and not required to be plugged in. The battery life needs to be able to last about 6 hours or for a full school day. The device must also be fit for use. Make sure that:

• the battery is not swollen or bulging

• the screen is not cracked (especially for touch screen devices)

• the keyboard and trackpad or pointing device work reliably

• it is capable of playing and recording sounds

• the camera(s) work (optional)

⚠️ Confirm with us

If you are not sure if your device meets the requirements, or if you are considering purchasing a new device and want to confirm it is sufficient, please feel free to contact our IT department. We are happy to help!

Chromebooks

Chromebooks are laptops that run ChromeOS, an operating system made by Google that is based on the Chrome web browser. Most Chromebooks are made by PC manufacturers with names you might recognise such as Acer, Asus, Dell, HP and Samsung.

Chromebooks are extremely popular in education thanks to their low price, easy integration into school networks, and ability to run any software that runs in a web browser. All the data is stored in the cloud (instead of on the hard drive) which also makes them attractive from a reliability and replacement point of view.

The main potential downsides of Chromebooks are that they can be quite limited without a working Internet connection and the low price often comes with tradeoffs in reliability, performance or build quality.

Note: if your student needs software that isn't available on ChromeOS, such as IGCSE or IB students studying music or design, may find a Chromebook limiting for some learning requirements.

HOPE makes extensive use of Chromebooks and we have found them to be acceptable for the vast majority of students and tasks.

Windows Laptops/Notebooks

There are a wide range of manufacturers make Windows devices with names you might recoginse such as Acer, Asus, Dell, HP and Samsung. Windows are popular in businesses and homes. Service and repair is easy to find in Cambodia and is typically very affordable.

Windows are easy to use and have compatibility with thousands of software applications. Normally these devices have a long life, which is a plus for the long-term use for your student's education career. They are often customisable to meet your needs such as a faster processor or more memory for music, design, or gaming.

Some downsides are there is a massive variety of options which can be confusing or difficult to decide. Some hardware is less efficient which is not always apparent in the price.

We recommend going with a reputable manufacturer brand that offers a good warranty (at least 1 year). Make sure the Windows Operating System is included in the price of the laptop.

Apple MacBooks

Apple is know for its build quality and performance. MacBooks have a good reputation for logevity and higher resale value. In most cases, the battery life is superior to Chromebooks and Windows devices.

Macs have been traditionally strong in music, multimedia and design. Your student can successfully complete their studies with a more affordable device, but you may wish to choose this option if they are studying these subjects at a high level. 

Some cons to MacBooks is they are more expensive than other options and often need adapters to connect to periferals such as monitors, keyboards, or mice. Although support options are increasing in Cambodia, there are only a shops that can work on Apple.

Other Devices

While we don't recommend tablets such as Apples iPads, Microsoft Surface, or Samsung Galaxy, they can still be used as a learning device at HOPE. They offer some advantages to conventional laptop devices, however often have trouble connecting to some of our learning systems. It can also be difficult for students using only touchscreens. Be sure to purchase a compatible keyboard and mouse for the tablet if possible.

Linux devices are growing in popularity, mostly due to price and specific functions. HOPE does not recommend these for BYOD, however, does not prohibit their use. Theses devices cannot print to HOPE printers and more difficult to find support.

Smartphones and Small Tablets

Smartphones and small tablets are not suitable for BYOD due to screen size and their incompatibility with require learning systems at HOPE.

The HOPE IT Department can offer help on Bring Your Own Devices, but have some limitations. We are happy to help with configuration settings, minor hardware problems, and troubleshooting the root of issues. We are unable to provide replacement parts, however, in some cases can help swap hardware if the replacement is provided. 

Ultimately, we will try our best to help how we can, but support limitations are case by case.

We do recommend reputable repair shops in Phnom Penh:
Chromebooks -  MYTeb
Windows laptops - Voreaksith Computer
Apple MacBooks - Big Mac Computer