Frequently Asked Questions

campus technology resource center

FAQ's

1. What is the CTRC?
2. Who has access to the CTRC?
3. What are the lab hours?
4. What kinds of computers are in the lab, and what software is installed?
5. Can I copy any of the CTRC software?
6. Can I install software on the computers in the lab?
7. How to save and backup documents while working on a CTRC computer?
8. Is there a charge for printing?
9. Do I need to have my BC ID card to print in the CTRC?
10. Can I use my own paper to print?
11. Can I print from my laptop?
12. Do you have color printing?
13. Do you have scanners?
14. Can I use the lab as a group?
15. Can I use my laptop in the CTRC?
16. Does the CTRC have wireless access?
17. Can alumni use the CTRC?
18. Are there a special accomodations for the physically challenged?

 

 

1. What is the CTRC?
The Campus Technology Resource Center (CTRC), formerly SLSC, is located in Room 250 of the O'Neill Library. The CTRC provides Macintosh and Windows computers, print only stations, printers, scanners, laptop lounges, music stations, and a variety of software applications for currently active members of the BC community. A valid BC ID is required to access the CTRC resources.

A staff of Technical Support Advisors (TSAs) and ResNet students are available to assist users and to support most of their computing needs.

The CTRC also provides a Student Help Desk staffed by TSAs and ResNets who are available to assist users with problems or questions concerning their computers, such as network configuration, virus clean up, and email client setup. The Help Desk is located in O'Neill 248.

Concerns regarding any CTRC or Help Desk policy may be addressed to the Manager of the Help Center & CTRC. Suggestions and comments about the facility and policies are welcomed and can be made by emailing CTRC@bc.edu.

back to questions

 

2. Who has access to the CTRC?
Any individual (student, faculty, or staff) who is an active member of the BC community and has a valid BC ID has access to the facility.

back to questions

 

3. What are the lab hours?
CTRC lab schedule. The CTRC is open year round.

back to questions

 

4. What kinds of computers are in the lab, and what software is installed?
The CTRC has 99 Windows computers and 11 Macs. Software list.

back to questions

 

5. Can I copy any of the CTRC software?
No. Software installed in the CTRC is subject to copyright restrictions.

back to questions

 

6. Can I install my own software on the computers in the lab?
No. The software installed on lab computers has been specially installed and any alterations might render the computer dysfunctional. In addition, copyrighted software is not properly licensed to be installed in the CTRC.

back to questions

 

7. How should I save and backup documents while working on a CTRC computer?
First and foremost, NEVER WORK OFF OF A DISK! Opening and saving documents directly to a disk can possibly corrupt your file. The best way to work on a file is to store a temporary working copy in the computer's "Temp Folder (D Drive)," accessible via the desktop.

* On Macs, copy your file onto the "Temp Folder" by dragging-and-dropping the file icon while holding down the OPTION key.
* On Windows, drag and drop the file icon onto the "Temp Folder (D Drive)."

Once your file is in the "Temp Folder" you are free to open it, edit it, or copy it from this location. When you are done, save your updated file back onto your disk, CD, Flash Drive, or other storage media.

Keep in mind that once you log out of a CTRC computer, anything that you have saved to the "Temp Folder" might be accessible to others who use the computer. Therefore, you should double check that you have a backup of the files saved to your New Window Will OpenMyFiles@bc or other source and delete your files from the D drive before logging out.

Always store a backup copy of your files on your home computer, in your email, Myfiles, or on a second backup disk. If your only copy exists on one disk and the disk corrupts, you will lose your data. Think of disks as a briefcase: they are ONLY for transporting your files to and from computers and NOT for long-term storage.

Note: ALL FILES saved to the "C Drive" will be purged upon logging off.

back to questions

 

8. Is there a charge for printing?
Beginning August 6, 2007, students can print 500 pages per semester for free. If you print over 500 pages, you will be charged 3 cents per page to your Eagle Bucks account. New Window Will OpenLearn more about BC's student printing policy.

back to questions

 

9. Do I need to have my BC ID card to print in the CTRC?
Yes. You need to swipe your BC ID card to release your print job.

back to questions

 

10. Can I use my own paper to print?
No. The CTRC printers require specific paper and cannot be adjusted for private use.

back to questions

 

11. Can I print from my laptop?
Yes. Any computer connected to the BC Network can access and print to the CTRC's printers. New Window Will OpenLearn how to set up remote printing.

back to questions

 

12. Do you have color printing?
No. The Library offers color printing at the following prices: .75 per page for text documents and 1.00 per page for photographs or illustrations. For color printing outside of Boston College you can contact the UPS Store near the Boston College T stop at 617-254-3232 they charge .69 per page.

back to questions

 

13. Do you have scanners?
Yes, the CTRC has 4 color scanners: 1 Mac and 3 Windows.

back to questions

 

14. Can I use the lab as a group?
Groups are welcome to book our conference room near the front desk.

back to questions

 

15. Can I use my laptop in the CTRC?
Yes. The CTRC has 14 laptop stations, and staff members are available to assist you in setting up.

back to questions

 

16. Does the CTRC have wireless access?
Yes. The CTRC has access to BC's wireless network.
New Window Will OpenView the Wireless Campus Map 
New Window Will OpenLearn how to connect your laptop to the wireless network

back to questions

 

17. Can alumni use the CTRC?
No. Unfortunately, alumni do not have active accounts and are unable to log onto CTRC computers.

back to questions

 

18. Are there special accomodations for the physically challenged?
Yes. There are 2 Windows and 1 Mac stations dedicated for the physically challenged. We do not provide special keyboards for the visually impaired.

back to questions