Frequently Asked Questions

I’m looking to purchase some equipment. What do you recommend?

Please contact our department for the latest products that we recommend. 

Do I leave the computer on or turn it off when I'm done using the it?

Please leave the computer on. The classroom computers automatically start and shut down daily. Leaving the computer on minimizes start up time for the next user. It also allows the computers to automatically download critical updates and virus scanner definitions at night. If you have logged into any service, please restart the PC to clear all cached data.

Can I play a DVD?

All computers in centrally supported classrooms have a DVD-ROM drive capable of playing either CDs or DVDs. After you put a DVD into the computer, please select the VLC media player from the start menu or desktop. Within VLC, select Media in the upper right corner, then choose Open Disc. Press play to start the DVD. On the controller select the PC as the video source, and the DVD movie will be projected to your class. 

Can I install software on classroom computers?

Many faculty find it a great aid to have a computer in the classroom, especially for presentations and Internet access. The computers in centrally supported classrooms are intended as basic standardized devices that provide the standard suite of campus software. In this configuration they are able to support most faculty needs. Unfortunately, it is not feasible for us to maintain each individual classroom computer with its own independent set of software. Visit our software page to view the standard configuration for classroom computers. 

If you have free or open source software you'd like included in the default PC configuration, send us an e-mail. Please note that we cannot guarantee requested software will work with all campus services when installed. For software that requires a license, please contact ITSS about the Virtual Software Library(opens in new window). 

Please note that an ITPR(opens in new window) must be filed for all software in use on campus. 

How do I access Box on a classroom PC?

To access your Box drive from a classroom computer you will need to login into the Box portal(opens in new window). Once you login to Box, you can upload and manage your files from the website.