Information Technology Services and Student Technology welcome you to Davidson College. Here’s an overview of the computing resources that will be available to you.
If you don't yet have a computer:
You don't necessarily need to bring a computer at all - more than 200 computers are available to you in public labs around campus, many open 24/7. If you do plan to bring a computer with you:
- For Windows: We recommend Windows 7, but Vista and XP are also supported.
- For Mac OS X: We recommend OS X 10.6 (Snow Leopard) but OS X 10.5 (Leopard) is also supported.
- Laptop or Desktop? Completely up to you, but be aware that laptops are more flexible on campus. Our wireless network provides Internet access in most locations, and laptops are easier to take to classes, labs and the library.
- Internet Access: If you choose a laptop, make sure it has an Ethernet port and an 802.11-compatible Wi-Fi card. If you go for a desktop, make sure you have Ethernet. (Most modern computers come with these ports and cards already.)
- Smartphones/iPhones/iPods/iPads: We support network access for most smartphones, and email access for Windows Mobile devices, iPhones, iPod touches and iPads. Be sure yours is fully updated.
If you're bringing a computer, bring this stuff as well:
If you do choose to bring a computer, there are a few things you should remember to pack along.
- ALL the discs that come with the computer: If your computer has trouble during the year, Student Tech will need your original system discs to help you. If your computer didn't come with system discs, you should ask the seller to provide them.
- A case or bag (for laptops): You'll be moving around with your computer, and having a convenient and safe way to carry it makes life easier.
- A backup drive: Your files are understandably very important to you. Having a backup drive will give you peace of mind in case you experience trouble with your computer.
- A VGA video adapter (for laptops): At some point during your time at Davidson, you'll probably want to hook your laptop to a projector for a presentation or the like. Some laptops, particularly Apples, require a special adapter to connect to a standard VGA port. Make sure to bring one. If you're not sure what you need, check with your computer's seller.
What not to bring:
- Wireless routers, access points and printers: Personal wireless routers and access points are not allowed on campus because they interfere with the College's network. This includes wireless backup devices that also serve as routers (such as Apple's Time Capsule). We also recommend that you not bring wireless printers. They will not connect to the College network.
- File sharing programs: Sharing music, videos, ebooks and other copyrighted materials is illegal. The College cannot protect students who violate copyright by sharing files. Uninstall your file-sharing and bittorrent software before you arrive on campus.
What ITS will provide:
- Anti-virus software: Use of the College's network requires that you have anti-virus installed, so we provide it. If your computer already has anti-virus software, leave it in place until you are on campus and ready to install our licensed software.
- Microsoft Office: The full Office suite (Word, Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint for Mac and Windows; also Access for Windows) is licensed for Davidson students to install on their personal computers.
- Email Software: Outlook for Windows or Entourage for Macintosh is provided so you can access your Davidson email account. You can also use our Webmail service, if you prefer.
Before you come to campus:
- Update Windows: On your Windows computer, visit Windows Update and install all critical updates (you may need to visit more than once to get everything). This is a requirement for network access.
- Update Mac OS X: On your Apple computer, click on the Apple icon and select Software Update. Install all offered updates. Do this until it reports no further updates are needed. This is a requirement for network access.
Help Resources:
- During the school year, the ResNet staff is available to help you. They are located on the 2nd floor of Tomlinson Residence Hall. The office is open Sunday - Thursday from 7:00pm - 11:00pm.
- If you have questions not answered by our websites, email Student Tech or leave a message at 704-894-2900 (option 2 then option 1).
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