Overheard at the HelpDesk...

Frequently Asked Questions
and
Responses to
Student Survey Comments

Why won't my floppy/Zip disk work? It's only three years old!


Floppy/Zip disks have a relatively short life. They work differently from the hard disk inside the computer and therefore don't last as long. If you are using your floppy disk on a frequent basis (several times per week), it's a good idea to copy your files to a new floppy disk every six months or so.

Is there a class in BAC-45 / C-1 / C-2 / C-3?


The Lab Reservation Sheets posted beside each door of each lab tell when the labs are reserved, both for entire-term classes and for single-day training events.

Do you know where I can find Mathematica/ CricketGraph/ DINE etc.?


The Software Locator Lists posted in each lab tell what computers in each lab have the programs you need.

What time do you close?


General hours for labs are
Monday - Thursday 7:00 a.m. - 12:30 a.m.
Friday 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Sunday 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.; 8:00 p.m. - 12:30 a.m.

Should I have saved that?

What happened to my paper?!?!? It was there a minute ago!!!
Why won't my computer do anything?

It's useful to save everything. And save often. You never know when the computer might lock up or the power might go out. It's also a good idea to save the document under different names and on different disks, in case your disk decides to go to Floppy Disk Heaven.

Does my disk need to be formatted before I use it?


Yes, a floppy disk must be formatted once before it can be used. However, this is only a one-time process; reformatting erases everything. If you bought pre-formatted disks, you're ready to work. If you not sure or if you need help, ask at the HelpDesk.

Which way does my disk go in?


The angled corner goes in first, toward the right side of the computer. If you not sure or if you need help, ask at the HelpDesk.

I need some paper for the printer in there.


All paper for the printers is free for the asking at the HelpDesk.

Uhhh... this didn't print right... @!$#%$%^$%#^!!!!


Unless it's a problem with the printer (cartridge running out of ink, etc.), please proofread!

I tried fixing it myself. What now?


If you have a problem with a computer in the labs, please notify someone at the HelpDesk; don't try anything yourself. That's what we're being paid for.

Do you know anything about computers?


Though the lab assistants can't know how to use every feature of the 100+ programs in the labs, they should be able to help you with the more common needs such as operations of Excel, and Access, as well as basic tasks such as formatting/repairing a floppy disk or fixing a malfunctioning printer.

Do you know anything about Mathematica/ Photoshop/ etc.?


Department-specific software is best supported by the department that teaches with it. The student lab assistants can help with basic use, such as finding/starting/exiting the program, printing, etc.

Are you a computer major?


Most student lab assistants are not computer majors, but a few are.

I hate computers (or some specific program)!!!!


Sometimes, we agree. If they would only do what you want!

Uhhh... So, like, what do I do?


We do assume you have some knowledge of how to use the program you need. We also assume your teacher prefers for you to do the assignment, rather than the student lab assistants. If you are completely at a loss as to what to do, you probably need to take CSC105, Survey of Microcomputing Applications, or at least ask the teacher who gave you the assignment if s/he has any instructions for you.

May I use your phone?


A phone is installed in the lobby for out-going calls by students. This allows us to use the HelpDesk phone for incoming calls.

Comments and suggestions concerning this site should be forwarded to:

jdbarham@uu.edu

Last updated on May 17, 2002