Public Computer FAQ

General

Where are computers located in the library?

There are 23 computers located on the main floor of the library and 7 on the top floor. The Academic Computing Center on the lower level of the library has an additional 29 computers.

What are the hours and location of the Academic Computing Center?

To get to the ACC, you must enter the library building through the doors located on the west side and follow the signs through the building. ACC hours are posted on the door, but the ACC may be unavailable when it is being used for classes.

Accessing the Network

What is my network/email login and password?

Your login will typically be firstname.lastnameYY@northwestu.edu (YY being the last two digits of the year you entered Northwest) and your password will be your student number (unless you have changed it). If you have problems logging in to your account, contact the IS department at help@northwestu.edu.

Where can I plug my laptop into the campus network?

All ports on the top floor of the library are active. These can be found in the curriculum area, the quiet study area, and both meeting rooms. If you have not done so previously, you must configure your computer for the campus network. If you do not have a network cable you can borrow one from the circulation desk.

How do I get access to the wireless network?

Wireless access is available throughout the library, although signal strength is weak in some areas. Instructions are available here.

Can I use the library computers if I am not an NU student?

Yes, library staff can log you in using a guest account.

The Internet filter is preventing me from accessing a legitimate web site.

Library staff have the password to override the filter.

Software

Can I install software on library computers?

No, security settings will prevent you from installing any software on library computers. If the program is for a class and your professor has made prior arrangements with the IS department the program should be installed on the computers in the computer lab.

Can WordPerfect or Works documents be opened on library computers?

Yes, but you cannot just click on the file to open it:

Open the Microsoft Word program
Choose File>Open...
Browse to the location where your document is saved and double-click on the file.
If the document does not appear in the list of files you may need to choose "All Files (*.*)" from the "Files of Type" drop down menu at the bottom of the dialog box.

Do you have the SPSS program?

Yes, it is installed on the ten computers located near the main entrance to the library and all the computers in the computer lab.

Do you have the PowerBible program?

Yes, it is installed on all four computers on the hexagonal table. Note that if you wish to access the NIV/NRSV/NASB versions of the Bible, you must be logged into the computer under the Library Guest account. Library staff can log you in using this account.

Saving & Lost Data

I saved a document on a computer in the library. Is it still there?

If you saved the document on the T drive, it should still be there. Documents saved in other locations on the public computers will be deleted nightly. Documents saved on the T drive are visible to anyone who logs into the computer and may be changed or deleted. Make sure to save any important work on a thumb drive.

Is there a way to save my work on library computers?

The library flash drives you can check out. You can also save to the T drive on the library computers or email the document to yourself.

My USB (keychain/flash/thumb) drive is not showing up when I plug it in.

Some USB drives do not work on some computers. If your drive does not work on library computers, try it on others to make sure it is not broken. Remember, USB drives are not immune to failure. Always make a backup copy of any document you do not wish to retype.

Is it OK to remove my USB (keychain/flash/thumb) drive without first clicking the "Safely Remove Hardware" button?

As long as you do not remove the disk while the computer is in the process of saving something to the disk it is usually ok, but it never hurts to play it safe.

Printing, Copying, Scanning and Faxing

Where are the printers located?

On the main floor to the left of the stairs and on the top floor landing.

Is it possible to print to the library's laser printer from my laptop?

No, you must transfer files you wish to print to a library computer.

How much does it cost to print?

The NU Administration has implemented a quota for student printing to campus printers beginning in Fall Semester 2007. The purpose of this policy is to conserve resources and reduce our printing costs. At the beginning of each semester, students' quotas will be reset to 400 pages. Students may extend their quota by purchasing additional pages. This can be done in multiples of $5.00 (100 pages @ $0.05/ea) at the Cashier's Office in the Davis Administration Building. Alumni and guests must pay 5 cents per page.

Are photocopiers available?

Yes, the library has two photocopiers located to the left of the stairs on the main floor. Photocopies cost 5 cents per page.

Can I print in color?

Yes, select "OPAC Color Laser" as your printer. Three pages will be deducted from your print quota for each color printout you make.

Is there a fax machine that students can use?

The main reception desk in the Davis Administration building (number 1 on the campus map) has a fax machine that students can use.

How can I make transparencies/overheads?

Contact Ester Harmon, x5735