Computer Support
This page attempts to address the main questions we have received in the past. We have also linked to a number of security resources (which are available free to staff, employees and students) which may very well keep you from needing computer support in the future.
Because the vast majority of our users are running Windows XP Professional , it has become our main focus.
We also provide more limited support for Mac OS-X, Solaris/Unix , and Linux.
Windows XP
Performance Tweaks
Changes to the "Normal" defaults of a Windows XP installation. Includes performance-enhancing options and how to set some XP defaults back to Windows 2000 appearance.
Samba
Unix Printer and Drive Setup in XP .
Changing the CD-ROM Drive Letter
Helps you change the CD-ROM drive letter. Oftentimes CAE takes the F: drive as a default, which renders the user CD-ROM invisible.
Installing Windows XP Pro.
Windows XP Professional is required to run on the College's Network. However, most new purchases come with Windows XP Home Edition.
Note: Microsoft Windows XP is the operating system of choice within the College of Engineering. Support for other operating systems is limited to our experience.
Mac OS-X
Using Samba Resources
Helps you connect to a Unix server in OS-X.
Installing Norton AntiVirus Corporate
Good (and free) antivirus program for use with Mac.
Printing to an HP JetDirect Printer
Instructions valid for Mac OS-X 10.3.3 and later.
Configuring TCP/IP
Help with basic configuration of TCP/IP with OS-X
Eudora (POP)
Setting up POP (a mail server) for Eudora on OS-X
Note:The Mac OS-X operating system is new to CAE; therefore our knowledge base is limited. CAE will make every effort to assist but please understand that our resources are limited to what we have a working knowledge of.
Solaris/Unix
Getting Started in Unix
Help with connecting, setting up an account, file storage, etc. Very helpful Unix resource.
Telephone Access
Changes to the "normal" defaults of Windows XP installation. Includes performance-enhancing options and how to set some XP defaults back to Windows 2000 appearance.
Ansys
Unix printer and drive setup in XP
Printing from Unix
Basic instructions on how to print from a Unix computer.
SPICE
SPICE is a general-purpose circuit simulation program for nonlinear DC, nonlinear transient, and linear AC analyses. This page is quite technical.
Linux
Configure TCP/IP
Sometimes a linux distribution must be statically configured. This page will show you two ways of configuring a static IP, use of a command line or configuring the network file.
Add User
Basic adding/deleting user information for Linux.
Implementing a Linux Firewall
Directions on how to setup a Linux Firewall using a program called Iptables.
File Permissions
Setting file permissions in Linux is an integral part of administrating any Linux machine, especially in servers which allow remote access to your Linux machine, such as FTP servers.
Fstab Configuration
Fstab is a static file with descriptive information that allows for easy mounting/un-mounting of file systems and devices.
Note: Neither CAE nor the Faculty Support Group officially endorse or try to promote any one Linux distribution over another. We do, however, recommend that users within the College of Engineering use Debian for its ease in upgrading and patching. Linux is quickly growing to the point where some people consider it to be a viable alternative to Microsoft Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP. In response to this, the Faculty Support Group is supporting Linux on a limited basis, which will expand as our own knowledge grows.
Archived, older versions of Windows: Windows 2000, Windows NT 4.0, Windows 95/98.
Relevant non-operating system specific links: