Incoming Student Technology FAQ

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Purchasing a Computer

Do I need to bring a computer to campus?

Most people do bring computers to campus, however it is not absolutly necessary. If you are unsure of buying a computer, come to campus and wait a week. Then, ask yourself this question.

Should I get a laptop or a desktop computer?

There are many advantages when buying laptops. Students can take them to class to take notes, use the GACwireless network around campus, use them in the library to do research, easier to transport from home to �鶹��Ƶ, and they are generally easier to carry if you would like to bring your computer to the Technology Helpline in cases where you need help removing viruses or connecting to the network.

However, laptops are generally more expensive than desktops. They are more prone to be stolen if left unattended. You will get more value buying a desktop peformance-wise.

We suggest that you choose which kind of computer based on personal preference.

What kind of computer should I get? Apple or Windows?

• You should buy the type of computer with which you are most comfortable with. �鶹��Ƶ owns and supports both platforms.

Are there any type of computer purchasing programs at �鶹��Ƶ?

• You are able to purchase an Apple computer at an educational discount on-line.

While �鶹��Ƶ does not have a "recommended model" for PCs for students, we put extensive effort into finding the correct computer to purchase for faculty and staff laptops, and we negotiated an excellent price.

We are able to offer the same significantly discounted price to �鶹��Ƶ students and employees.

The laptops we are purchasing this year for faculty and staff are Lenovo Thinkpads (formerly IBM PC devision)

• LENOVO THINKPAD T60 1951 - CORE DUO T2400 1.83 GHZ - 14.1
• RAM: 512MB
• Drives: 60 GB - Serial ATA-150 - 5400 rpm, CD-RW / DVD-ROM combo
• Networking: Gigabit Ethernet, Wireless ABG
• Battery Life (spec): 6hr
• Dimensions (WxDxH): 12.2 in x 10 in x 1.2 in
• Operating System: Microsoft Windows XP Professional
• Manufacturer Warranty: 3 years warranty

Cost: \$1350 or \$1500 with accidental damage coverage

What kind of computers do most people get?

2005 New Student Survey Stats

• No Computer - 26 students - 5.31%
• Windows Laptop - 322 students - 65.71%
• Windows Desktop - 85 students - 17.35%
• Macintosh Laptop - 45 students - 9.18%
• Macintosh Desktop - 12 students - 2.45%

490 Total Surveyed

What do I need to connect to the �鶹��Ƶ network?

To access the wired network, you will need an ethernet card (new computers, this is standard) and an ethernet cable. Ethernet cables are for sale in the Book Mark. These are priced excellent. 25' feet should be adequate for most students.

To access the wireless network you will need a desktop or laptop with a wireless card either built-in or external and wireless signal.

Software

Things to Do before you get to �鶹��Ƶ!

1. Keep your computer updated with Windows Updates.
2. Keep your computer protected from viruses by using an up-to-date and updated Anti-Virus client.

Do we need Microsoft Office on our computers?

At �鶹��Ƶ, all faculty, staff, and employees use the Microsoft Office Suite on both Windows and Macintosh platforms.

Because Microsoft Office Suite is installed on every lab computer, it is not necessary for you to purchase it. However, most students choose to have it on their personal computers.

There are some problems associated with not having this software and/or using different word processing software, such as an incompatibility with their professor's computer. The most common problem is when a student emails their professor a document that is not in the Word format and the professor cannot read the attachment.

Is there a student edition available?

Yes, there is a student edition available at many retail stores. In most cases you will need proof of student status to purchase this edition of the software.

Should we come with an anti-virus product?

It is recommended that you use an anti-virus product before you come to campus. When you come to campus, you will need to remove your current product and install ours.

If you have purchased a subscription for an anti-virus product and would like to use that, please contact the Technology Helpline for instructions on registering your computer. Keep in mind, when your subscription is over, you must renew or uninstall your copy and install ours.

However, we still would recommend uninstalling your current copy and installing ours. When you have our copy installed, you have a 4-year subscription instead of 1-subscription.

We can provide the most support when you have our anti-virus installed.

Does �鶹��Ƶ provide one for us?

�鶹��Ƶ provides a full version of Symantec Anti-Virus for all incoming students. It is available for download during the online computer registration. You must uninstall your previous copy of any Anti-Virus software before installing our anti-virus. Failure to do so will result in software problems that may result in OS instability.

Does �鶹��Ƶ provide a full version of a spyware removal program?

Symantec Anti-virus, the anti-virus software �鶹��Ƶ provides to students, does provide some protection against spyware and adware, however, it is not perfect.

The best way to avoid getting your computer infected with spyware and adware is to not install "risky" programs such as peer to peer music downloading software on your computer.

Networking

Recommended Connection

While connecting to the �鶹��Ƶ network in your dorm room, we recommend using the wired connection as it provides faster and more reliable Internet connection. Consider wireless as a convenience while visiting your friend's rooms or out in your section.

How many wired ports are in each room in the Residence Halls?

This depends on the room that you are assigned. However, in most cases, for first-year students, it will be one per person. The wired ports are the recommended way for connecting your computer to the Internet while in the rooms. It is more reliable and faster than the wireless connections.

Is there wireless in the Residence Halls?

Please see the link below first. In most residence halls, wireless connectivity is available.

See also

• Residence Hall Wireless Pilot Project

Where else is the wireless network?

For an up-to-date listing of where the GACwireless network is located, please visit .

How do I connect to the network?

1. Turn on the computer.
2. Plug your ethernet cord into the wall jack (the wide one).
3. Open up a web browser.
4. You should be automatically redirected to a registration screen.
5. Follow the on-screen directions.

You may have to register your computer more than once. You will need to register your computer when you access the wireless network, the wired network, and when you plug your computer into any other buildings' network jacks.

Support

Is there anybody to help me connect to the internet when I come to campus?

Yes, the Technology Helpline is here to help you! To contact us, dial 6111 on your campus phone or 507-933-6111 from your cell phone or from off-campus.

Other

Where are the computer labs?

See also

• Computer lab hours

Can I bring a wireless router to campus?

Due to the interference that can be caused by too many wirless access points in a small area, we recommend that students use the wireless provided by the college and NOT bring their own.