Information Resources Update E-mail the Helpdesk
Sam Houston State University
  Update Navigation
  • Security
    		•
  • Physical Plant WO
  • Labs
    		•
  • Bandwidth
    		•
  • Blackboard
    		•
  • Training
    		•
  • Instant Messaging
    		•
  • Update Archive
    		•

      Support
  • Software Guides
  • Training Calendar
    		•
  • Blackboard Support
    		•
  • Web/Faculty Support
    		•
  • Lab Reservations
    		•
  • UCS Forms
    		•
  • Computer Services
  • HELPDESK
    		•

      SHSU Stats
  • Web Page Rankings
    		•
  • Web Server Stats
    		•
  • Blackboard Stats
  • Homepage Archive
  • Portal Server Stats
    • April 2006

    All Users Go Wireless

    An extra battery for your laptop: $95wirelessbeach

    A wireless keyboard with encryption: $115

    The freedom to use a computer where you want to be: Priceless.

    The term "wireless" in this case refers to having access to the Internet without having to be plugged in to an Ethernet port. You can, of course, also use your laptop without being plugged in to an electrical outlet, depending on your battery power.

    Many of you also prefer to have your keyboard and mouse wireless even if you are tied to your desk, instead of "surfing" on the beach. Please do not just purchase inexpensive keyboards or mice directly from a retail outlet without verifying they have an added layer of security. We recommend only keyboards with Bluetooth technology. The encryption algorithm in the Bluetooth specifications provides additional protection. This precautionary technology covers mice, keyboards, a mobile phone synchronizing with a PC, and a PDA using a mobile phone as a modem.

    Take advantage of the extra security afforded through an encrypted device and help obstruct hackers. Don't make it easy on them!

    All Users Let's Get Physical (Plant)

    Work requests destined for the Physical Plant Department can now be accomplished online at the department’s Web site. The new request feature is an interim accommodation for those who wish to request work online and to receive a work order number by return e-mail.

    Computer Services is currently in the process of designing a new Computerized Maintenance Management System within SamWeb for the Physical Plant which will have this and other enhanced customer service features for the campus community.

    Faculty Do You Have Reservations?

    It is reaching the stressful time of the semester for every student who has procrastinated. The labs are getting busier each day.

    Please remember to notify the Lab Manager if you are not going to use the lab that you have reserved. Are you prepared for summer? Ensure that you have the needed labs reserved for Summer I and II now.

    If your students are looking for a quiet spot to do their homework, recommend the new lab in White Hall.

    All Users Extreme Makeover Bandwidth Edition--Version III

    Remember how we said the last two months that contracts take time? Well, now we're talking daily to Level 3 and AT&T as they complete the increased bandwidth connection. We know that it has been extremely slow frequently. We apologize, and assure you we are working with the vendors to implement the new connection as soon as possible.

    All Users Faculty/Staff Development---Here or in Cyberspace

    You may request one-on-one training at anytime. Just send e-mail to the Helpdesk. You may also sign up to use the Mindleaders online training system. The Computer Services department will pay for your annual subscription to access this. If you want to learn more, ask your supervisor to forward approval to the Helpdesk and we'll sign you up.

    Faculty Blackboard

    Last month's classes will be offered again this month: Sign up to learn about the Blackboard Assignment Manager and how to Adaptively Release your Content.  If you have other directions you would like to go with Bb, please just ask the Blackboard team.

    All Users R U RDY?

    A new Instant Messaging system is still planned. A campus-wide implementation of the new IM will allow you to quickly message back and forth.

    All Users What's Good, What's Not?

    The Helpdesk provides support for university equipment and software on the local area network. Each month's Update will now include the versions of software and minimum requirements for hardware with the new or changed information highlighted and bolded.

    • Memory Sticks: Purchase (and encourage your students to buy) flash drives that are USB Mass Storage Compliant.
    • Operating Systems: The supported version of Macintosh machines is OS X, versions 2, 3, and 4. The supported version of Microsoft's Operating System is Windows XP.
    • Software Packages: The supported versions of Office suites are Microsoft's Office 2003 and WordPerfect 12 for PC's and Microsoft Office 2004 for Macintoshes.
    • Hardware Configurations: The minimum requirement for SHSU Local Area Network support for a PC is a 1Ghz processor, with 512mb RAM, and a 40GB disk. The minimum requirement for a Macintosh on the LAN is a 733 mhz processor, with 512mb RAM, and a 40GB disk.
    All offers, training, or software above pertain to faculty and staff at SHSU only. If you have any questions, kudos, comments, or concerns, please let us know!

    Approved for campus-wide e-mail distribution by Associate Vice President Jim Stevens