Verify Computer Age | Faculty | MU Information Technology

Mercer provides full support for Dell and Apple computers purchased through the IT department. Equipment considered end of life hardware may still be serviced, but charges may apply. Please see the Computer Equipment Service and Support Policy for information regarding service charges.

If your computer is end of life, visit our purchasing website for replacement options.

 

Check Computer Age by “Property of Mercer” Sticker

Every Mercer-supported computer has a “Property of Mercer” sticker containing an identification number. In 2010, this number began including the year and the month the machine was deployed. The sticker is usually placed in the following locations:

  • Dell Desktops:  On top of the computer, near the front.
  • Dell Laptops:  On the back of the display.
  • Apple iMacs:  On the back of the computer.
  • Apple MacBooks:  On the back of the display.

If the identification number is 7 digits long, the first 2 numbers represent the year the device was deployed, and the next 2 numbers represent the month. For example, if a computer has a sticker with 1201326, it was deployed in January 2012.

If the identification number is not 7 digits long, the computer’s age must be verified by the serial number or service tag. See information below for instructions.

 

Locating Dell Service Tags

Dell uses product identifiers like Service Tag, Express Service Code, or Serial Number to access product information like technical specifications, documentation, warranty. The Dell Service Tag is a 7 character alphanumeric code used to identify specific products.

  • Laptops: The Service Tag is located on the bottom panel of the laptop.
  • Desktops: The Service Tag is located either on the top, side or on the back panel of the computer.

 

Check Dell Computer Age

Follow the instructions below to determine the age of a Dell computer.

  1. Visit the Dell Support page: https://www.dell.com/support/home/en-us
  2. Enter your 7 character alphanumeric Service Tag in the Search Support box and select the Search button.

  3. Select the View warranty details link in the Warrant status box.

  4. The Mercer end of life date is 5 years after the Ship Date shown for Dell desktops and 4 years after the Ship Date for Dell laptops.

 

Check Apple Computer Age

Locate the “Property of Mercer” sticker and identification number on your computer. The sticker is usually placed in the following locations:

  • Apple iMacs:  On the back of the computer.
  • Apple MacBooks:  On the back of the display.

If the identification number is 7 digits long, the first 2 numbers represent the year the device was deployed, and the next 2 numbers represent the month. For example, if a computer has a sticker with 1201326, it was deployed in January 2012.

The Mercer end of life date is 5 years after the deployment date for Apple iMacs and 4 years after the deployment date for Apple MacBooks.