2009-2010 Pirate IT Essentials

Information Technology and Computing Services

Your guide to technology success at East Carolina University

2009 – 2010 Edition

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http://www.ecu.edu/itcs

EASY

AS...

…when it comes

Contents 2009 – 2010

TABLE OF CONTENTS 6

Our step-by-step instructions guide you through connecting to the ECU network.

8

SAFE COMPUTING AT ECU Once you connect to the ECU network, take a moment to insure your cyberspace safety.

10

COMPUTER BUYING GUIDE Need a computer? Find out more about the latest computer recommendations at ECU.

to computers,

16

software and

19

the Web

CONNECT2ECU

EASY AS 1... 2... 3.

ITCS is always working to provide you with new technologies. Find out what’s new this fall.

NEW TO ECU? You have lots of questions. Well, we have the answers to help you make the most of your campus experience.

20

LIBRARY RESOURCES Term paper due? No problem. The ECU Libraries provide great tools to help you get it done.

21

ECU STUDENT AFFAIRS ECU Student Affairs provides additional information for your cyberspace safety.

22

WIRELESS NETWORK MAP We provide you with the up-to-date information on wireless connectivity across campus.

Did you know you can use software like Camtasia, Adobe Dreamweaver and Photoshop, and SPSS – at no cost, anywhere anytime – through ECU’s Virtual Computing Lab (http://vcl.ecu.edu)?

PIRATE IT ESSENTIALS 2009 – 2010

3

FROM THE CIO

Welcome to ECU! Information Technology and Computing Services (ITCS) is here to assist East Carolina University’s growing community of students, faculty, and staff with your diverse technological needs. Despite the challenges of increasingly constrained budgets, ITCS is offering several exciting new technology services and tools this year while continuing to enhance our foundational resources you’ve come to depend upon throughout your day.

Our creative and hard working team is charged with supporting the academic and administrative work of the university in many ways – from providing a high-speed campus network with wireless access, technology-enhanced classrooms, campus computer labs and an IT help desk to web site hosting, e-mail accounts, a rich selection of university-licensed and low-cost software, network storage space for your electronic files, and helpful training resources. We encourage you to take advantage of these services and tools, and as always, we welcome your suggestions for improvements and additional services that will enhance your experience at ECU. As a friendly reminder, you are now in a community of users, and security-related mistakes on your part can affect others in the community. So, when using ECU’s technology resources, please follow university technology policies and procedures and all applicable federal and local laws. Take measures to avoid phishing scams, online identity theft, destructive computer viruses, and copyright infringement penalties.

I hope you enjoy perusing the fall 2009 edition of Pirate IT Essentials, and I invite you to explore our Web site – redesigned this summer – for additional information. Don’t forget to subscribe to the ECU Technology Digest Blog while you’re there!

Here’s to a successful 2009-2010 academic year.

Sincerely,

Jack Brinn, Associate Vice Chancellor, Chief Information Officer, ITCS

4

PIRATE IT ESSENTIALS 2009 – 2010

ECU RELEASES NEW SCREENSAVER You wear Pirate gear—so why not deck your computer out in purple and gold as well? With the new ECU screensaver, you can. Only the official ECU screensaver features beautiful images of campus life and RSS feeds from Pirate athletics, ECU news, ECU features, and the events calendar to keep students informed. The screensaver is free and available for both Mac and PC. Visit http://www.edu.edu/screensaver to download.

CHECK OUT ECU’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL Want to watch a robot-assisted mitral valve surgery? Witness PeeDee’s miraculous transformation? Check out the latest episode of Art’s Thread? Well, you can do that and more at ECU’s YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/ecu).

Since its launch last year, ECU’s channel has attracted nearly 200 subscribers and its videos have been seen more than 60,000 times. Content on ECU’s YouTube channel comes from departments, organizations, and individuals from across campus, and includes lectures, spirit activities, student projects, performances of the arts, research, features, and promotional videos. The channel is frequently updated so be sure to bookmark it and check back often.

KNOW THE RULES East Carolina University provides students many

be sure to familiarize yourself with the policies

educational computing and networking resources

regulating the use of peer-to-peer/file sharing

such as computer labs, e-mail, electronic file

(available at http://www.ecu.edu/itcs/itsecurity/

storage space, and access to the Internet, to name

filesharing.cfm) applications on the ECU network.

a few. As you use these resources, keep in mind

Failure to abide by ECU technology policies

university technology policies and procedures

can result in suspension of network privileges

(available at http://www.ecu.edu/itcs/policies) and

and referral of the matter to the appropriate

all applicable federal and local laws. In particular,

disciplinary process.

Did you know that you can install a free “Save as PDF” add-in for your Microsoft Office software – Word, PowerPoint, Access, Excel…? Go to http://www.microsoft. com and search for “save as pdf.” Check out other free alternatives like PrimoPDF (http://www.primopdf.com) and PDF Online (http://www.pdfonline.com).

PIRATE IT ESSENTIALS 2009 – 2010

5

Connect2ECU START NETWORKING

Cisco Clean Access Agent and Symantec AntiVirus MUST be on your computer to Access ECU’s network.

Please turn off your wireless access and uninstall any anti-malware software on your computer before proceeding to the steps below.

CONNECT A WINDOWS PC

(Residence Hall)

For more detailed How-to’s, visit http://www.ecu.edu/itcs/connect2ecu.cfm.

1.

Plug the computer into the network port

2. Press the power button 3. Open a browser window 4. Install Symantec AntiVirus (Endpoint version). Download from download.ecu.edu >> General Files >> Virus and Security Applications 5. Check for Windows Critical Updates from Start >> All Programs >> Windows Update 6. Install Cisco Clean Access from http://download.ecu.edu.

CONNECT A MAC COMPUTER

(Residence Hall)

Macintosh computers are not required to install Cisco Clean Access Agent software for residence hall use.

1.

Plug the computer into the network port

2. Press the power button 3. Open a browser window 4. Install Symantec Antivirus. Download the appropriate version for your operating system from download.ecu.edu >> General Files >> Virus and Security Applications.

If you have any questions, please call the IT Help Desk at 252.328.9866.

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

ECU works to provide every student with equal access to all of the university’s technology resources.

Assistive Technology is defined in the Assistive Technology Act of 1998 as “any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.”

ECU has resources available for students who would benefit from the use of assistive technology. To learn which technologies are available and how you may begin to use them, visit the Disability Support Services Web site at http://www.ecu. edu/dss or dial 737-1016 (Voice/TTY/Relay). You may also visit the Department for Disability Support Services in 138 Slay.

Did you know that Mac OS X v10.5 has a tool called Time Machine that helps you backup and restore files? To learn more, go to http://www.apple.com and search for “Time Machine.”

6

PIRATE IT ESSENTIALS 2009 – 2010

ECU houses an outstanding Assistive Technology Lab. It provides an environment in which you can learn and receive expert advice regarding the selection and use of assistive technology.

For more information, visit the Assistive Technology Lab Web site at http://www.ecu.edu/educ/ci/sped/at or stop by Rivers 128.

ECU ID vs. PIRATEID All faculty, staff and students are assigned a unique “ECU ID” that identifies

Orientation, MSC Ticket office, and Student Health.

them at East Carolina University. You will use this ID for various activities

If you forget your ECU ID, you can find it in OneStop. After you’ve logged

with Admissions, Cashier’s Office, Financial Aid, Housing, Advising, the

in, click “What is my ECU (Banner) ID?” in the Banner section. You can also

Registrar

contact the IT Help Desk at 252.328.9866 for assistance or click the “My ECU

(enrollment

verification,

transcript

request,

name/address/

SSN changes), 1 Card, Student Recreation Center, Athletic Ticket office,

ID” button within https://pirateid.ecu.edu after you register your PirateID.

Example ECU ID: BØØ993421 Your ECU ID will be required for a number of very important functions such as: • Taking placement tests for math, chemistry and Name:

foreign languages.

ECU ID:

• Accessing your academic record (courses taken, grades, etc.)

PIRATEID PirateID is the term that is used to refer to your

4, then his PirateID would be pdp0704. If you

user ID, your user name, your Exchange ID, etc.

forget your PirateID, you can find it in the ECU

This is not to be confused with the ECU ID that

directory. Go to the ECU home page, click the

is used in place of your Social Security number.

envelope icon and enter your first and last name.

Your PirateID is the combination of letters and

Your PirateID is made up of your initials and your

numbers before “@ecu.edu”.

birth date (MMDD). For example, if a student’s name is Pee Dee Pirate, and he was born on July

Example PirateID: pdp0704 Example Email Address: pdp0704@ecu.edu You will use your PirateID to log in to

as the OneStop portal and Blackboard course

your ECU Piratemail account as well

management system.

Passphrase MAINTENANCE You will be required to change your

ecu.edu and enter your PirateID. You can also

passphrase

click on the PID icon in the upper right-hand

(password)

before

logging

into any of our systems. Visit http://pirateid.

corner of the ECU home page.

Instructions for the Passphrase Maintenance Site 1. Enter your PirateID and press continue.

Please enter an e-mail address other than your ECU e-mail

2. Change your default (old) passphrase.

Your default (old) passphrase can be found in your letter from the First Year Center. Your new passphrase must be at least 8 characters in length and contain characters from 3 of the 4 classes below: • Numbers (0 – 9) • Lowercase Letters

• Uppercase Letters (a – z)

3. Enter an alternate e-mail address for security notifications.

(A – Z)

• Special Characters

(ex. !, @, #, $)

address (if you have one).

4. Set up your security questions. If you ever forget your passphrase, you can use these questions to access the Passphrase Maintenance site to change your passphrase without having to contact the Help Desk. **If you do not set up these questions or forget the answers, you will have to visit a designated passphrase reset location or contact the Help Desk during regular business hours.

For more detailed information, visit http://www.ecu.edu/itcs/itsecurity/passphrase.cfm PIRATE IT ESSENTIALS 2009 – 2010

7

8

PIRATE IT ESSENTIALS 2009 – 2010

Safe Computing DO’S AND DON’TS

DON’T become a victim of identity theft and

your computer is stolen, any of your sensitive

You are responsible for any access to the ECU

fraud. Use strong passphrases/passwords for

information is available to the thief. Encryption

network from your computer.

all

sensitive

of the information will provide added security for

information, make sure the security “lock” icon

your data. Encryption is a method of scrambling

DO keep a watchful eye on flash drives, PDA’s,

is visible in the lower right corner of your screen.

data so that it can only be read by a person with

Visit

http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/

the correct password. CAUTION - If you forget

idtheft/consumers/consumer-publications.html

your encryption password, you will not be able

for more tips on preventing identity theft.

to access your data.

DO be wary of posting personal information in

DO protect printed confidential data. Store your

cyberspace. Posting certain personal information on

sensitive data in a locked drawer or closet. Never

social networking sites such as MySpace puts you at

leave sensitive data on a printer or copier.

risk for identity theft, stalking, and other problems.

DON’T

DON’T store sensitive information – your Social

unattended. Either log off or lock the

Security number, bank account numbers, other

computer by pressing CTRL ALT +

personal information - on your computer. If

DELETE and choosing “lock computer.”

online

accounts.

If

submitting

leave

your

cell phones and laptops. Mobile devices are easily stolen. Never store your sensitive data unencrypted on these devices.

DON’T give out your passphrase. Keep your passphrase safe to protect the information on your computer. Be cautious about who uses your computer and remember that ITCS NEVER asks for your password.

computer

WHAT IS PHISHING? (fish´ing) (n.) (Webopedia definition) The act of

asked to update personal information,

sending an e-mail to a user falsely claiming to be an

such as passwords and credit card, social

established legitimate enterprise in an attempt to

security, and bank account numbers, that

scam the user into surrendering private information

the legitimate organization already has.

that will be used for identity theft. The e-mail

The Web site, however, is bogus and set

directs the user to visit a Web site where they are

up only to steal the user’s information.

WHAT CAN YOU DO? • Be suspicious of any e-mail that requests personal information.

ECU ITCS will NEVER ask for your passphrase.

• ECU will refer to Piratemail, PirateID, and passphrase, NOT Web mail, UserID or Password.

• NEVER provide account information, password and other personal identifying

information in reply to any e-mail. You are providing the scammer verification of your e-mail address when you reply.

• Always verify the source of requests for personal information.

• NEVER click on links in e-mail.

• If you have provided passphrase and other sensitive information, CHANGE your passphrase immediately.

• Just DELETE it!

• Check the ITCS Web site’s Announcements section if you receive a technology notification and want to verify it’s legit.

ITCS sends important notifications through e-mail AND posts them to our Web site.

For information on the latest Phishing scams, Did you know that the Apple Web site

visit: http://www.millersmiles.co.uk. You may

has a very helpful guide on how to get

also check the IT Security Web site,

the most out of your Mac? Check it out at

http://www.ecu.edu/itsecurity

http://www.apple.com/support/mac101.

for additional information.

PIRATE IT ESSENTIALS 2009 – 2010

9

Need a computer? No Problem. Many of ECU’s degree programs recommend or require students to have computers with specific features.

The Dowdy Student Stores and the ACE Computing Initiative have teamed up to provide students with the information they need to make appropriate computer purchases for their prospective degree programs.

EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENTAL COMPUTER REQUIREMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FALL 2009 The following academic degree programs require or recommend students to have access to a computer that meets the minimum specifications for their major. These requirements are subject to change, students should check with their academic advisor before making final decision on a computer!

SCHOOL OF ALLIED HEALTH SCIENCES Physician Assistance Studies Health Information Management Health Services Management

Required Required Required

When admitted to the Physician Assistant program When accepted into the HIM BS program When accepted into the HSM BS program

Multimedia PC (Macs not allowed) Basic PC or Multimedia PC Basic PC or Multimedia PC

Required

When admitted to the Communication Arts program

Multimedia Mac

Recommended Recommended Required Recommended

When declared as Anthropology major When accepted into Anthropology graduate program All declared majors and intended majors When declared as Physics major

Basic Basic Basic Basic

Recommended Recommended

When declared a Business major When accepted into the Graduate Program

Multimedia PC or Tablet Multimedia PC or Tablet

SCHOOL OF ART AND DESIGN Communication Arts

COLLEGE ARTS AND SCIENCES Anthropology Anthropology Biology Physics

PC PC PC PC

or or or or

Basic Basic Basic Basic

Mac Mac Mac Mac

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS Undergraduate Masters

College of Business students should check with their advisors before making a decision

NOTE: Windows Version of Microsoft Office is Required for Business students

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION Business Education – Undergraduate Business Education – Graduate Education Graduate Program Music Education Science Education Teaching Fellows Theatre Education

Required Required Recommended Recommended Required Recommended Recommended

When When When When When When When

declared as Business Education major accepted into Business Education Masters Program enrolled in the Graduate program accepted into Music Education graduate program accepted into MAEd program accepted into Teaching Fellows program and enrolled accepted into Upper Division of the College of Education

Recommended Recommended Recommended

When formally accepted as a Criminal Justice major All declared majors and intended majors All declared majors and intended majors

Basic PC Graphic Design PC w/open GL Graphic Design PC w/open GL

Required

When enrolled in School of Medicine

Multimedia PC or Tablet

Multimedia PC Multimedia PC Basic PC or Basic Mac Multimedia Mac Basic PC Basic PC or Basic Mac Basic PC or Basic Mac

COLLEGE OF HUMAN ECOLOGY Criminal Justice Interior Design Merchandising

SCHOOL OF MEDICINE Medicine

COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY AND COMPUTER SCIENCE – **Students should examine additional specific requirements for this college on the following page.

Construction Management Design Engineering Industrial Distribution and Logistics Industrial Engineering Technology Industrial Technology Information and Computer Technology

Required Required Required Required Required Required Required

When When When When When When When

declared as Construction Management major declared as BS in Design accepted into the Engineering program declared as Industrial Distribution major declared as Manufacturing major declared as Industrial Technology major declared as Information and Computer Technology major

Graphic Graphic Graphic Graphic Graphic Graphic Graphic

Design Design Design Design Design Design Design

PC PC PC PC PC PC PC

w/open GL w/open GL w/open GL w/open GL w/open GL w/open GL w/open GL

The College of Business has adopted computer recommendations for students in all of their programs. Students are recommended to have computers that match the multimedia PC configurations or the Tablet PC configurations. Students can review specific details of the recommendations by contacting academic advisors in the College of Business or by visiting http://www.ecu.edu/ace.

Did you know that ECU has a spam-filtering tool called MailMarshal that lets you add senders to a “safe” and “blocked” list? Take control of your e-mail! Go to http://spammarshal.ecu.edu.

12

PIRATE IT ESSENTIALS 2009 – 2010

SPECIFIC COMPUTER REQUIREMENTS FOR ECU COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY AND COMPUTER SCIENCE - FALL 2009 ECU Recommendation for purchase from ECU Student Store: 15” Lenovo Thinkpad T61U or 14” Lenovo Thinkpad T61U

Recommended Configuration: Graphic Design PC: For high-end computing involving graphic and design applications such as AutoCAD that require OPEN GL VIDEO, your computer should meet these minimum specifications: Minimum Configuration Requirements Operating System

Windows XP Pro or Vista Home

Processor

Intel Core Duo equivalent or better

RAM

at least 1GB or greater (for XP), 2GB or greater (for Vista)

Hard Drive capacity

at least 100 GB or greater

Optical Drive

CD-RW/DVD Combo

Video Card (this requirement is critical for running CAD applications!)

128MB OPEN GL Video card or greater

Network connection (for on campus use or off campus broadband connection)

10/100 Ethernet card

Wireless Card (for laptops)

802.11b or 802.11g wireless card

Modem (for off-campus dial up access only)

56K

USB ports

at least 2 USB 2.0 slots

Antivirus Software

Additional Requirements for Specific Departments

Specific Minimum Requirements

Construction Management • Design • Engineering

• Laptop is Required – video card must be Open GL

Industrial Technology

• On campus students must have laptop – for Distance Education students a desktop is minimum, laptop is recommended

Information and Computer Technology

• Basic PC Configuration is required with a minimum of 2GB of memory upgradable to 4GB; Minimum disk 100GB; Multimedia PC recommended; on campus students must have laptop; for Distance Education students a desktop is minimum, laptop is recommended

Industrial Engineering Technology • Industrial Distribution and Logistics

• Multimedia configuration w/Open GL required – Laptop is Required

Students should check with their academic advisor before making a final decision.

We are your headquarters for: • ECU ACE supported computer models

• Computer peripherals and supplies

• Lenovo & Apple academically priced laptop computers

• Printers, cables, keboards, mice, etc.

• Academic discounts on many popular software titles • Adobe, Apple, AutoCad, Microsoft and more.

Fall Semester Store Hours

Monday – Thursday • 7:30am – 7:00pm

Friday • 7:30am – 5:00pm

Saturday • 11:00am – 3:00pm

Wright Building • 252.328.6731 • 1.877.499.TEXT (toll free)

http://www.studentstores.ecu.edu PIRATE IT ESSENTIALS 2009 – 2010

13

MINIMUM RECOMMENDED CONFIGURATIONS Type of Activity

Type of

General use

General use

General use

Design applications

General use

General use

General use

Word processing

Digital photography

Ultra lightweight

CAD applications

Word processing

Digital photography

Graphic design

Web surfing

Watching movies

Note taking in class

Video production

Web surfing

Watching movies

Video production

E-mail

Playing music

Gaming

E-mail

Digital music

Basic PC

Multimedia PC

Graphic Design

Basic Mac

Multi-Media Mac

Tablet PC

Computer Needed Platform

15” Laptop

Laptop

Laptop

15” Laptop

Windows Vista /

Windows Vista /

OS X Leopard

OS X Leopard

OS X Leopard

Windows XP Pro

Windows XP Pro Intel® Core™ 2

Intel® Core™ 2

Intel® Core™ 2

Intel® Core™ 2

Duo (2.8GHz)

Duo (2.0GHz)

Duo (2.4GHz)

Duo (2.5GHz)

3 GB

4 GB

1 GB

2 GB

4 GB

200GB 5400rpm

160GB 5400rpm

200GB 5400rpm

160GB 5400rpm

250GB 5400rpm

320GB 7200rpm

HD

HD

HD

HD

HD

HD

DVD Multi-Burner

Internal / External

DVD RW

CDRW/DVD

DVDRW / CDRW

DVDRW / CDRW

CDRW/DVD

Dual Layer

Combo

Superdrive

Superdrive

256MB w/Open

128MB shared

256MB shared

256MB dedicated

Widescreen

Convertible

Laptop

Tablet

Windows Vista /

Windows Vista /

Windows XP Pro

Windows XP Pro

Intel® Core™ 2

Intel® Core™ 2

Intel® Core™ 2

Duo (2.00GHz)

Duo (2.5GHz)

Duo (1.8GHz)

RAM

2 GB

3 GB

Hard Drive

160GB 5400rpm HD CDRW/DVD

Operating System

Laptop

Graphic Design Mac

PC w/ Open GL

Tablet Processor

Optical Drive

Combo

Combo Video Graphics

Integrated video

128MB Dedicated

Integrated video

Card

GL

Ethernet

10/100/1000

10/100/1000

10/100/1000

10/100/1000

10/100/1000

10/100/1000

10/100/1000

Wireless Card

Internal Intel

Internal Intel

Internal Intel

Internal Intel

Integrated Airport

Integrated Airport

Integrated Airport

802.11 b/g/n

802.11 b/g/n

802.11 b/g/n

802.11 b/g/n

Extreme 802.11g

Extreme 802.11g

Extreme 802.11g

USB Ports

2

3

2

3

2

2

2

Modem

Internal 56K

Internal 56K

Internal 56K

Internal 56K

Internal 56K

Internal 56K

Modem

Modem

Modem

Modem

Modem

Modem

Bluetooth

Bluetooth

Bluetooth

Bluetooth

Bluetooth

Bluetooth

Bluetooth

Firewire

Firewire

Recommended Options

Firewire

Firewire

Battery Life

5 Hours

5 Hours

5 Hours

5 Hours

5 Hours

5 Hours

5 Hours

Manufacturer

3 Year

3 Year

3 Year

3 Year

3 Year AppleCare

3 Year AppleCare

3 Year AppleCare

Warranty

Recommended

Recommended

Recommended

Recommended

Recommended

Recommended

Recommended

Accidental Damage

3 Year

3 Year

3 Year

3 Year

3 Year Safeware

3 Year Safeware

3 Year Safeware

Insurance

Recommended

Recommended

Recommended

Recommended

Recommended

Recommended

Recommended

AntiVirus Software

Symantec 10.0

Symantec 10.0

Symantec 10.0

Symantec 10.0

Symantec 10.0

Symantec 10.0

Symantec 10.0

Required

Required

Required

Required

Recommended

Recommended

Recommended

These recommendations are based on the needs of various ECU Academic Majors who have computer requirements or recommendations. Students should consult with their advisor to see if their intended major has a requirement or recommendation specific to their major. Students should purchase computers that meet or exceed these recommendations.

14

PIRATE IT ESSENTIALS 2009 – 2010

EASY AS...

LIFE TAKES COMPUTERS

SOFTWARE UNLEASHED

1. Interested in buying one? Does your major require you to have a certain kind? Check out ECU’s special pricing on certain models and what you may need to have at http://www.ecu.edu/ace. You can also visit the ECU Dowdy Student Stores’ Computer Department for more information.

1. Software can be expensive. But sometimes you just gotta have it. That’s when you visit ECU’s Virtual Computing Lab at http://vcl.ecu.edu. You can choose the software you need, at no cost, for use anywhere, anytime.

Occasionally, you may need to make a reservation, but more often than not, you’ll be able to log in right away with your ECU PirateID and passphrase and get started.

2. Drop by a campus computer lab to use a PC or Mac, print assignments, or scan documents. Locate a lab nearest you or with the most available seats at http://www.ecu.edu/itcs/studentcomputerlabs.

3. Is money tight and you’re required to have a computer for your major? Visit the ECU Dowdy Student Stores Web site at http://www.studentstores.ecu.edu for information about a limited number of FREE LAPTOPS available through a need-based scholarship program. Laptop scholarship applications will be available August 14 – September 5, 2009. Laptops will be awarded in October 2009 through a decision-making process by the ECU Financial Aid Office.

GET CONNECTED, STAY CONNECTED 1. To connect to ECU’s network, you’ll need two programs installed: Cisco Clean Access and Symantec AntiVirus or Endpoint. Run your Windows and Symantec Update tools to make sure you have the latest updates.

For more information and detailed instructions, go to http://www.ecu.edu/itcs/connect2ecu.cfm.

2. ECU’s wireless network is broad and you can hop aboard from many locations and buildings across campus. To view the university wireless map, go to: http://www.ecu.edu/itcs/wireless.

3. Follow university Information Technology policies located at http://www.ecu.edu/itcs/policies and United States Copyright law. Don’t forget: unauthorized downloading and sharing of music, video and software is a violation of United States Copyright law and is punishable with civil and criminal penalties ranging from $750 to $200,000 and up to 10 years of imprisonment! More information is available at http://www.ecu.edu/itcs/policies/copyrightstu.cfm.

16

PIRATE IT ESSENTIALS 2009 – 2010

2. Many of ECU’s computer labs — we have more than 100! — offer a variety of software you may need. Visit http://www.ecu.edu/itcs/studentcomputerlabs to find out locations of labs, what computer/printers are available and how busy they are. We’ve just launched a new Google map that will tell quickly tell you if a lab is packed or if there’s plenty of room for you!

3. ECU’s Dowdy Student Stores offers educationally-priced software like the Microsoft Office suite and Adobe Dreamweaver, Photoshop, and InDesign, among many others.

Visit them online at http://www.studentstores.ecu.edu to check out their listing or stop by their Computer Department in the Wright Building.

1... 2... 3.

JUMP INTO WEB SPACE

1. Go to http://myweb.ecu.edu, log in with your ECU PirateID and passphrase, and click the Create Web Space link to get started. You can manage your own permissions, transfer files to and from your Web site right through the browser…even create a blog!

2. Need a Web page editor to design your pages? Go to http://vcl.ecu.edu and choose the software option with Dreamweaver. You can use any of the software listed — 24 hours a day, at no cost — from your dorm room, Greenville’s local Starbucks or even while in another state.

All you need to know is your ECU PirateID and passphrase to connect.

…when it comes to computer s, software and the Web

3. Job hunting and want to create an online portfolio? Go to The Career Center’s Web site at http://www.ecu.edu/e3careers, click Students in the top left menu, then Resumes/e-Portfolio for instructions.

PIRATE IT ESSENTIALS 2009 – 2010

17

1. What type of computer do I need?

7. I am receiving so much e-mail spam. Help!

If you’d like to buy a computer, visit the ACE Student Computing Support Center online at http://www.ecu.edu/ace to check out the computer features you may need for your specific degree program. Purchasing a computer is OPTIONAL; we have a number of computer labs that you can take advantage of to do coursework.

ECU protects e-mail with spam management software named MailMarshal. You can log in at: http://spammarshal.ecu.edu and add senders to a safe list or block specific senders. Be sure to read your daily MailMarshal Digest to release legitimate e-mail that can sometimes be unintentionally “quarantined” (all e-mail from an “@ecu.edu” address is delivered to your Inbox). Also, try creating filters in your e-mail account that can automatically send unwanted mail to your Junk folder.

2. Does ECU offer low prices for computers?

ACE Student Computing Support Center and ECU Dowdy Student Stores have formed a program that offers Lenovo (formerly IBM) and Apple computers at educational prices. If you purchase a computer through this program, you will receive on-campus warranty support through ACE.

3. What if I don’t have a computer?

If you don’t have a computer, don’t stress! ECU has nearly 100 computer labs across campus and in residence halls that you can take advantage of. Visit http//www.ecu.edu/itcs/studentcomputerlabs to locate a lab near you and see which lab(s) has the most available seats.

8. How do I access e-mail on my Smartphone or mobile device?

When you are on campus, you can use ECU’s wireless network named “Taho” to access the Internet. Through your phone’s browser, you can log into Piratemail (http://piratemail.ecu.edu) with your PirateID and passphrase. Please note that limited Smartphone support is available.

9. What should I do if I think my computer has a virus?

You have a few different options:

4. Can I connect to the ECU network from my residence hall?

• Call the ECU IT Help Desk at 252.328.9866 / 800.340.7081.

Yes, but you must have two software programs installed on your computer: Cisco Clean Access and Symantec AntiVirus or Endpoint. Run your Windows and Symantec Update tools to make sure you have the latest updates. For more information and detailed instructions, go to http://www.ecu.edu/itcs/connect2ecu.cfm. Note that Xbox, Wii and other gaming systems are not allowed on the ECU network.

• Submit an online ECU IT Help Desk service request or chat live with a technology support technician at http://help.ecu.edu

5. Is the ECU campus wireless?

You can access ECU’s wireless network from many areas of campus; however, residence halls and some academic buildings don’t have wireless access. Note that you are NOT allowed to set up a wireless router in your dorm room. For details and to view ECU’s wireless map, go to http://www.ecu.edu/itcs/wireless.

6. How do I check e-mail?

You can check e-mail through ECU’s Web-based Piratemail (http://piratemail.ecu.edu).

• Contact the ACE Student Computing Support Center at 252.328.5407, 108 Rawl Building (Main Campus) or 252.744.5390, 3330 Allied Health and Nursing Building (Health Sciences Campus).

11. My professor said my class is in Blackboard.

What does this mean?

This means that your professor has posted some or all of your course material online at http://blackboard.ecu.edu. Log in with your PirateID and passphrase. Blackboard offers many great features like a discussion board and digital dropbox to which you upload class assignments.

Tip: You can also get to Blackboard by clicking the “Bb” icon on the ECU home page.

12. I need to learn how to use Microsoft Excel.

Is there training for different kinds of software?

Free training on a variety of software is available through http://www.GCFLearnFree.org.

The Microsoft Web site also has helpful tutorials and how-to videos on their Office products: http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/help. If you’re interested in meeting one-on-one with a Technology Consultant, please call the Walk-in IT Help Desk at 252.328.5401 or stop by 103 Austin Building to make an appointment.

13. Where can I store files so that I always have access to them?

You can store electronic files in your Piratedrive, a folder set up on the university network. Piratedrive folders can be accessed through OneStop ( on or off campus) or “My Computer” from a Windows computer logged into the INTRA domain on campus (look for your "U" drive). Students have 1 gigabyte of space. Your folder name is the same as your PirateID.

14. Where can I check my grades?

10. I need a specific kind of software for my class. Where do I go to get it?

Visit ECU’s Virtual Computing Lab at http://vcl.ecu.edu to choose the software you need, at no cost, for use anywhere, anytime. This resource is perfect for distance education students! Occasionally, you may need to make a reservation, but more often than not, you’ll be able to log in right away with your PirateID and passphrase and get started. You can also drop by one of the many computer labs across campus, or purchase a variety of software at educational prices at the ECU Dowdy Student Stores. In addition, you can log into the ECU IT Help Desk and review the list of university-licensed software in the left menu, then submit a request for the particular product you need.

To check your grades online, log into OneStop with your PirateID and passphrase at http://onestop.ecu.edu. In the Banner section, click Banner Self Service, then Student.

15. I have to design a Web site for a class project. Do I get Web space at ECU? Yes. Go to http://myweb.ecu.edu, log in with your ECU PirateID and passphrase, and click the Create Web Space link to get started. You can manage your own permissions, transfer files to and from your Web site right through the browser…even create a blog!

Library Resources AVAILABLE IT RESOURCES AT YOUR CAMPUS LIBRARY With so little time and so many assignments, take a look at the electronic library resources ECU offers that can really help you be more organized, more efficient, and a lot less frustrated!

Research Made Easy Research paper due? Both Joyner and Laupus libraries offer several ways to find scholarly sources for your assignments. Take a trip to the Joyner Library (http://www.ecu.edu/lib) and search to find all types of information on whatever topic you need. Visit the LaupusLibrary Web site (http://www.ecu. edu/laupuslibrary) to research health-related sources, both online and in print.

your research paper’s bibliography in whichever style format you need, MLA,APA, Chicago Manual of Style, etc. Go to Joyner: http:// www.ecu.edu/lib/reference/refworks.cfm Laupus:

ElectronicResources.cfm to see how easy it is to set up an account and start using RefWorks on your first class assignment!

Ask a Librarian Can’t seem to find the resource

Contact one of our professional staff for one on-one or group instruction on accessing and using any library resources. To request a session, go to either library’s home page and click the link, “Ask a Librarian.”

searching a subject? Want to learn

Dressing It Up In Style!

are usually answered within 24

Both Joyner and Laupus libraries offer

hours except when the library is

information on style guides. No matter which

closed, such as holidays and breaks.

style guide your discipline requires, MLA,APA,

Go to either of the sites below to

Chicago Manual of Style, find sources at

access this service. Joyner: http://

these

www.ecu.edu/lib/reference/ask_a_

locations.

Joyner:

http://www.ecu. and

http://www.ecu.edu/laupuslibrary/

StyleManualsCitationGuides.cfm

or

http://www.ecu.edu/laupuslibrary/

you’re

Laupus:

PIRATE IT ESSENTIALS 2009 – 2010

Use the Web-based service, RefWorks, to create

Need help?

edu/lib/Reference/refdesk/style.cfm

20

Create a Bibliography with RefWorks

looking

for?

Need

help

more about the library’s resources?

Contact a librarian at either library location by e-mail, phone or even an instant message! E-mail questions

librarian.cfm or Laupus: www.ecu. edu/laupuslibrary/asklibrarian.cfm

ECU Student Affairs GUIDELINES ON CYBERSPACE Student

Affairs

recognizes

that

at

East

Carolina

wouldn’t want your parents or boss to see. “11.1

illegal file sharing, could create problems for you

percent of employers responding to NACE’s

with the University and/or local authorities.

educational awareness by students and staff is a

recent Job Outlook 2007 Fall Preview survey

growing phenomenon. All students and divisional

reported plans to review profiles on social

Student Affairs at ECU uses cyberspace as

staff are encouraged to use cyberspace in a

networking sites when considering candidates

responsible and safe way.

for jobs.” The number of employers using this

Safety

information is growing!

too

for

of illegal behavior, such as underage drinking and

social/

Sharing

use

posting a partying photo or information you

interest groups, publicity/advertising, media, and

Issues:

cyberspace

University

much

personal

a resource to explore behaviors that may be possible violations of the Student Code of Conduct and/or illegal activity. In investigating these reports, the Division reserves the right to

information, including your address, telephone

Consider that there will be times in your life

use cyberspace as a resource in determining the

number, class schedule, etc., can put you at risk

when you may not want to list “partying,” and

validity of such reports.

for identity theft, stalking, and other problems.

“boozing” as hobbies. Remember, if just one

Avoid posting anything that would make it easy

visitor to your site saves a quote or a photo, it

Web site Terms and Conditions: It is very

for a stranger to find you. Remember to post

will always be out there.

only public information, and be general rather

Illegal Activity: Just as in the real world,

Some social networking and media content sites

individuals using the Internet for illegal activities

retain ownership of any information that you

may

than specific. Also remember that people aren’t always who they say they are: Be careful about

subject

to

for any Web site where you create an account.

disciplinary

post on your profile and can use the material any

procedures and criminal prosecution. Remember

way they want, without your permission. Make

What’s Acceptable? Don’t post anything that

that threatening language directed at an individual

sure you are comfortable with the terms before

would embarrass you later. Think twice before

can be a criminal act. Pictures or other evidence

agreeing to them.

adding strangers to your friends list.

be

important that you read the terms and conditions

University

ECU CAREER CENTER Today’s

job

search

process

requires

every

Center Web site, http://www.ecu.edu/e3careers,

feedback through this new mock interviewing

job seeker to develop tools that demonstrate

under the Resumes/e-Portfolio link.

program. This software allows students the

qualifications for the job. One such tool students

The Career Center also offers resume-writing

opportunity to experience a mock job interview

may consider is an electronic portfolio.

software. Students can visit the Career Center’s

An e-Portfolio is a Web site designed to handle

Web site to create a resume tailored to the jobs

nearly any type of document including Word

they are targeting.

and PowerPoint documents. The Career Center’s

Additionally, students have access to software

software provides an easy way to build an

they can use to review how they respond to real

e-Portfolio. This software is available on the Career

interview questions. They can receive instant video

on demand. In addition, if the user has a Web camera, they can record those interview sessions and post them to their e-Portfolio. If they do not have access to a Web camera, they can stop by The Career Center Cyber Café to make a recording.

BLACKBOARD Blackboard is the content management system ECU uses to deliver online course material. Your course environment will vary according to your instructor’s choices.

Desk at 252-328-9866 or toll free at 800-340-7081.

To access your Blackboard courses, visit http:// blackboard.ecu.edu. When prompted, enter your PirateID and passphrase. If you do not know your PirateID, visit the online directory at http://www.ecu. edu/cs-ecu/email_phone.cfm.

Make sure you save and/or print a copy of the syllabus, assignment schedule, and any course material that is available. Save your instructor’s e-mail address so that you are able to contact him/her as necessary. Collect the names of fellow classmates, so that you may contact each other through OneStop or Piratemail.

For Blackboard assistance visit http://ecu. supportcenteronline.com. If you need to reset your PirateID passphrase, visit http://pirateid.ecu.edu. If you have any other ECU e-mail questions, visit the IT Help Desk site at http://help.ecu.edu or call the Help

In the event of a Blackboard performance issue, there are a few steps that you can take to continue your course work during such a technology failure.

Make sure you determine that the problem is with Blackboard/Internet-based course site and not your Internet Service Provider.

If you have any questions about Blackboard please contact Matt Long at longm@ecu.edu or 252-328-9074.

Did you know you can install OpenOffice software – similar to Microsoft’s Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access and Publisher – for free from http://www.openoffice.org? Helpful tutorials are at http://www.tutorialsforopenoffice.org.

PIRATE IT ESSENTIALS 2009 – 2010

21

22

PIRATE IT ESSENTIALS 2009 – 2010

HEADS UP – ECU’s guest wireless network, currently named “Taho”, will be renamed “Pirates” this fall. Most wireless users shouldn’t notice any change in your login routine. Stay tuned to e-mail and the ITCS Web site for details!

PIRATE IT ESSENTIALS 2009 – 2010

23

Thinking of blaming Buster for downloading those “free� songs and movies? Think again.

Illegally downloading music, movies and other copyrighted material via file-sharing programs such as KaZaA, LimeWire or BearShare, can cost you your network access and thousands of dollars in legal settlement costs. You may even be subject to disciplinary action by the university and/or civil or criminal penalties.

How can I tell if my computer is distributing files?

Most file-sharing programs have a configuration panel where you can designate how many people can get files from you at once (your upload capacity) and which directories are shared. If your upload capacity is greater than 0, and if any directories are shared, then other people can download files from your computer. If you aren't sure where to find these preferences, check the

Be in the know: How do file-sharing programs work?

Help feature or the online user manual for the program you are using.

Note: Some programs use 0 to mean unlimited instead of meaning 0. It will often appear like this [0: unlimited] next to the settings. Make sure that if you have set something to 0 it means 0 and not unlimited.

Most file-sharing programs are "peer-to-peer" programs. This means that rather than having one central repository for all the files available for down-

How do I stop my computer from distributing files?

load, the program keeps track of what files all of its users have. When you

The exact configuration depends on which file-sharing program you are

download a file using a peer-to-peer program, you're not getting that file

using. Consult the Help feature or the online user manual for your program.

from a central server - you're getting it from someone like you who also has

To be absolutely sure that you're not distributing files, you can always unin-

that program installed on their computer. Everyone using the program

stall your file-sharing program.

shares their files with everyone else; thus the term "file-sharing".

Note: It is not possible to turn off "sharing" in a bittorrent program. While you are downloading anything in a

The settings in your file-sharing program determine which files you are shar-

bittorrent program (e.g. uTorrent, Bitcomet, Azureus, etc.) the item you are downloading is being shared with

ing with others. If the settings are configured incorrectly, you could end up

other computers. Your computer continues to share those files as long as you are online, even after you have

sharing your entire hard drive -- a big security risk for you.

finished downloading them.

Check out these legal sites: Amazon.com

eMusic

Wal-Mart

Best Buy

iTunes

Yahoo Music