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Student Computing at Trinity FAQ
- Would you recommend a student bring his or her own computer to school?
- Does the University sell computers?
- Is one computer brand better than another?
- What computer systems are supported in the Residence Halls?
- Does Trinity have a wireless network that I can connect to?
- Do I need to purchase any software like Microsoft Office for my PC or Office Mac for my Apple computer?
- Who's responsible for setting up my computer on the network?
- What is an RCC?
- I have some really cool files I would like to share with my friends - this is okay, right?
- How can I protect my computer from viruses, spyware, etc?
- Should I buy a printer?
- What are the fees associated with the residence hall network?
- Can students continue to use the software provided by Trinity's Communication Technology Fee after they leave the university?
- Would you recommend a student bring his or her own computer to school?
Most first year students bring their own computer allowing them both convenience and mobility. Having a computer, however, is not a necessity as Trinity University does maintain a number of student computer labs.
- Does the University sell computers?
No, the University does not have a computer purchase program. Students can purchase a computer directly from the manufacturer: Dell, Apple, etc.
- Is one computer brand better than another?
Major computer brands such as Dell, Apple, and others offer competitive products, but may vary in technical support and service - support and service can be a key factor if future issues arise with your computer. Stay away from generic clones sold though mail order and some small dealers. These machines will only save you a few dollars, and are nearly always trouble later.
- What computer operating systems are supported in the Residence Halls?
For the latest supported operating systems and hardware please reference the Supported Hardware and Software '11-'12 page.
- Does Trinity have a wireless network that I can connect to?
- Do I need to purchase any software like Microsoft Office for my PC or Office Mac for my Apple computer?
No. As part of your Technology Communication Fee, Microsoft Office will be available for Windows or Mac users. All Microsoft Office products can be either downloaded from our network or acquired from Coates Library, Circulation Desk on the 3rd floor, main entrance level.
*The Trinity University Code of Ethics for Computing forbids illegal duplication of computer software.
- Who's responsible for setting up my computer on the network?
Students are encouraged to set up and configure their own computers on the network using the online instructions. If you would like assistance, please go to the Student Computer Service Center located in Winn 103 or contact the ITS Helpdesk for assistance and an RCC will be assigned a work order to evaluate the problem.
- What is an RCC?
RCC stands for Resident Computer Consultant. RCC's are students hired by Information Technology Services to assist students with their network configuration and connection to the Trinity network. A student with connectivity issues may contact the Helpdesk at (210) 999-7409 or helpdesk@trinity.edu to receive assistance from an RCC.
- I have some really cool files I would like to share with my friends - this is okay, right?
This depends on what type of files that are shared. If you created it and wanted to share your work with others using BitTorrent, KaZaA, Morpheous, or DirectConnect etc., and it is not copyrighted then it is legal. If, however, files are copyrighted and are being shared then this is in violation of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1997. Students should review, understand, and comply with all Information Technogy Services Policies.
- How can I protect my computer from viruses, spyware, etc?
Trinity provides Sophos Anti-virus software for both PC and Mac users. Prior to installing Sophos the student must uninstall any previously installed anti-virus software they have on their machine. This will ensure there are no software conflicts that affect the operation of their computer. After the software has been installed the student must double-click the Sophos icon in the taskbar to update the virus definition files. Failure to update these files regularly and consistently will leave the computer vulnerable to newly created virus attacks. Spyware is any software that installs and runs itself in the background of a computer while utilizing an internet connection without the knowledge and explicit permission from the user. Sophos Anti-virus, supplied to all Trinity students, has a built-in anti-spyware program. In order for spyware removal software to be effective the user must regularly check for and update spyware definition files. Trinity also requests that all computers are updated with the latest security patches and operating system updates prior to connecting to the wired and wireless networks. More information can be found on the Computer Security web pages.
- Should I buy a printer?
Convenience is the greatest benefit of having your own printer; however, Trinity University provides printing services in all of the public computer labs, including the library, which enable students to utilize their Tiger Card and the Tiger Bucks on that card to purchase printing at 9 cents per page, 14 cents per page duplexed, and 75 cents per page color. If you are planning to purchase a printer, consider your needs verses options such as color printing and print quality. In addition, wireless printers are not suggested as we are unable to support them in our residence halls. If you do plan to bring a wireless printer, please make sure you will be able to connect it to your computer directly using a USB cable.
- What are the fees associated with the residence hall network?
The students residing on campus will pay a $405.00 Technology communication fee per semester. This fee will include the Tiger Card, cable television, telephone, data fee, one copy of the current Microsoft Windows Operating System upgrade, virus scanning software, and Microsoft Office products for both PC and Mac. Off campus students will pay a $87.50 data fee that includes all Microsoft Office programs, virus scanning software, and the upgrade version of Windows. While on campus, students may download this software from Trinity's network resources or obtain the CD from the Circulation Desk located on the 3rd level (main entry) of the Coates Library. Windows 7 Upgrade discs are available at Winn 103. You will need to bring your laptop to the Student Computer Service Center (Winn 103) to validate your system informaton. Students with desktops can make an appointment with an RCC to visit their suite.
*The Information Technology Services Policies forbids illegal duplication of computer software. - Can students continue to use the software provided by Trinity's Communication Technology Fee after they leave the university?
No. Once students graduate or leave Trinity they are no longer entitled or licensed to use this software. The software is only valid as long as you are a registered student at Trinity University and must be removed from your computer when your student status has ended.
Trinity University has 802.11n wireless capability in every classroom and residence hall on campus. In order to connect to Trinity's wireless network your computer must have a wireless card that supports WPA (1 or 2) and PEAPv0. Most Wi-Fi certified cards meet these requirements. Instructions can be found on the ITS Wireless Support web page. Any additional questions about coverage area can be directed to the Information Technology Helpdesk (210) 999-7409.
