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Lab Frequently Asked Questions
I lost my disk! What can I do? Don't Panic! What sort of disk do I need to save? The computers in the lab can access 3.5 inch floppy disks, but they must be formatted to work with an IBM-compatible machine. Basically, unless your disk has been formatted on an Apple computer, it should be okay. If you will need to save, but don't have a disk, the bookstore sells floppy disks. Also, the term "floppy disk" can deceive: A 3.5 inch floppy disk is actually cased with hard plastic, but it is still referred to as a "floppy." How much does it cost to use the computers? There is no charge for using the computers. However, please note that there is a charge for printing from the lab computers. The charge for printing in black & white is 10 cents per page. The charge for printing in color is 30 cents per page. What type of computers are in the lab? All of the computers in the lab are some form of IBM-compatible. There are no Apple computers available in the lab. When is the best time to use the computers? The lab tends to be filled during the middle of the day (from about 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m.). If possible, try to avoid dropping by the lab at these times, as you will most likely be required to wait in line to use the lab. Also bear in mind that classes may be using the lab. Check for class reservations before using the lab. Any of the lab techs will be happy to provide you with a form to write down suggestions, comments, or (although hopefully not) complaints. You may either give the form to a latch (if you are comfortable with this) or mail it to Dr. Haydn Davis through the campus mail system. That's an easy one. You can call us at (760) 744-1150 ext. 2657, or come into the lab (there is always an assistant on duty when we are open), or e-mail mvalencia@palomar.edu. How do I make a reservation to use the lab? At this time, there are no provisions for individual students to reserve time in the lab. If you need to use the lab and are concerned about lab availability, call us at (760) 744-1150 ext. 2657. I am an instructor, how do I reserve time to bring my class into the lab? To reserve time for your class, either call the lab at extension 2657 or come into the lab in person and ask to speak with the lab manager. All classes should be reserved at least one week in advance, and the lab is available on a first-come first-served basis. It is not unusual for classes to reserve time a couple months in advance, so if you know when you will want to be in the lab, contact us soonest. Please remember that your class should not be considered reserved until you have received confirmation from the lab manager, Myrna Valencia. I am an instructor, how do I get software loaded into the lab for my class to use? First you have to have the software, with enough licenses for use by your students. This is important, so that we do not violate any copyright laws or license agreements. Next, contact Myrna Valencia (ext. 2657) with information about this software. Depending on the complexity of the software install, we may be unable to add your software in mid-semester, so be sure to contact us well in advance of your need. After the installation, you will be notified that your software is ready for use. As a rule of thumb, software to be added to the lab must be given to the lab manager more than one week before the beginning of the semester. Are there other labs available for public use? There are two other labs available for public use on campus. The Academic Research Lab has Internet access and is located on the second floor of the Library. Call (760) 744-1150 ext. 2616 for hours and information. The English Writing Lab in S-1, is available during normal school semesters. Call (760) 744-1150 ext. 2778 for hours and information. I prefer the Macintosh, what should I do? Provided your word processing or Internet files are placed onto an IBM-compatible disk, you should be able to use our lab without problems. (The Internet and word processing programs are extremely similar between the PCs and Macs.) If your files are on a Macintosh-formatted disk you must transfer your files to your IBM-formatted disk before using them in the lab. Can I use my own software in the lab? No. Can I download files from the Internet? No. How can I set up an e-mail account? Palomar College does not issue e-mail accounts to students at this time. However, there are a number of free Internet based e-mail services offered "out there" on the web. Many Palomar students have already set up accounts with a company called "HotMail," and an article explaining how to set up such an account can be found at "A Quick Guide to HotMail." Also, an Internet community "CollegeClub" gives unique e-mail accessibility, through the telephone. For information on CollegeClub, call (800) 617-8262. Please note: Palomar College has no affiliation with any of the Internet based e-mail services. These services are not supported by Palomar College staff, and we can be of no help with details of account information. (Basically, if you loose your password, we can do NOTHING!)
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