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ADVICE FOR THE NEW STUDENT

Questions What does "CaTS" stand for? Whose account is this anyway? Do I need my own computer? Should I buy a desktop or a laptop? Should I get a Windows or Macintosh computer? Can I borrow a laptop from CaTS? Can I buy cheap software through CaTS? How do I get advanced technical support?

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What does "CaTS" stand for?

CaTS is short for Computing and Telecommunications Services. We're the department on campus that supports computers, your internet connection, the wireless network and provides phone and cable TV service to the residence halls.

Whose account is this anyway?

Please be aware that the account information for a student (username, password, etc) is for use ONLY by that student. Parents or guardians are not authorized to use the account. If there is a problem with the account that warrants a call to the Help Desk, the student MUST be the one who calls. Due to state and federal laws, parents or guardians will not be able to retrieve account information for the student.

Do I need my own computer?

Computers are an increasingly essential part of the university experience. Could you imagine your life without access to a computer? They’re used for everything from basic e-mail to registering for classes and making housing arrangements to participating in virtual classrooms and taking online tests. Many important steps in your admission, registration and housing process will be done online, so it's important you have access to a computer.

For your convenience, computer labs are available at numerous locations across campus - many of them open 24-hours a day, so a computer is never far away. But most students choose to start their college career off with their own computer.

Should I buy a desktop or a laptop?

The portability of a laptop computer can be highly valuable, but remember, a laptop is going to be more expensive and less powerful than a traditional desktop computer. Laptops are also more easily lost or stolen, so you'll want to take precautions when using your laptop in public areas or when you leave your residence hall room. If you’re in the market for a laptop, WSU has negotiated special pricing on HP laptops and Apple runs a Back-to-School promotion each summer. Check out the details on the CaTS Guide to Purchasing Technology For Home.

Should I get a Windows or Macintosh computer?

Both platforms are supported on campus, but depending on your area of study, one may be preferred over the other. For instance, the College of Education and Human Services uses Macs in most of their coursework, while the Raj Soin College of Business uses mostly Windows systems. Your college may be able to outline for you, in general, the technology needs for your field of study. Your college advisor or other representative may provide more information, or in some cases it may be found on the college's website. For specific questions about purchasing a computer system, different features and model comparisons, please contact the CaTS Help Desk.

If you prefer a Mac, but are in a college with mostly Windows systems, you may still be able to run Windows software on your Intel-based Mac using Parallels or VMware Fusion software. Check out the Home Software Store for more information.

Can I borrow a laptop from CaTS?

Yes! You check out a wireless laptop computer (both Windows and Macintosh are available) for up to four hours free of charge through our Laptops2Go program. See the Laptops2go website for more information.

Can I buy cheap software through CaTS?

The Home Software Store offers huge savings on commonly used software programs such as Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc), iLife, Visio, Parallels and many others. Microsoft Office is an essential tool, used in nearly every class for typing in papers, turning in reports, creating presentations, etc. Students can purchase Microsoft Office for around $50, a huge savings over the $499 retail price. Check out the Home Software Store at http://www.wright.edu/software/ for all the details.

How do I get advanced technical support?

CaTS offers support services for students such as advanced virus/spyware removal, software installation and equipment troubleshooting. You can take advantage of Home Base's free 1-hour consulting service. Stop by the Help Desk to setup appointments for these advanced services. For a list of services offered, visit http://www.wright.edu/cats/homebase/.