Systems News : April 2006

Three Additional Laptops Make Mobile Computing Easy

Three brand new Dell Latitude laptops were purchased by the Society for the Advancement of Poynter Library, and are available from the circulation desk complete with Microsoft Office and wireless access. Students may check these computers out from opening until one hour from closing time. If you're a busy student on the go, be sure to bring in your own thumb drive (see our Hardware List for compatibility standards), or blank CD-R discs to burn your work to CD, so that you can take your work away with you.

These fresh laptops are kept clean automatically through the use of DeepFreeze. The DeepFreeze software allows you to save documents to a temporary file folder, while wiping clean the main drive every time the machine is restarted. This minimizes the downtime of the laptops between uses, and keeps our circulation staff happy! Now you can get that last minute homework finished... even if you forget your laptop at home.

Library Plans Group Computing Stations

Another expansion project is under way! The first floor student-use computing area will soon have additional computers on either side of its "horseshoe" shape. These semi-circular wooden computer tables will allow up to three students to share access to two specialized computers. These enhanced computers will feature Adobe Photoshop CS for image manipulation as well as other specialized applications. Drop in and work on your powerpoint presentation with all of the graphic tools you need on the newly installed units. The units are expected to be ready for use by Fall 2006.

If you have ideas on how we can improve these computers with that perfect software package or tool that you would like to see installed... voice your opinions through our online comment form.

Extended Wireless Coverage on Poynter 2nd Floor

In the summer of 2006 an additional wireless Access Point will be installed directly outside of the Instructional Media department, on the second floor of the library. The new Cisco systems unit will sport a omnidirectional antenna capable of extending the reach of the unit into two adjacent rooms. You will be able to get an optimal signal from either the Juvenile collection room, or in the stack/study area just outside the Instructional media department. When you are looking for the best places to study or surf the web, don't miss the secluded area on the south end of the second floor- tables and soft cushioned chairs make it the perfect spot! Tucked out of the general path, it is a little-known alcove that is perfect for spreading out your books or lounging in soft chairs that overlook the water.

For maps of current wireless coverage as well as guides to assist you in setting up your own wireless connection, visit our online Wireless Services Guide.

New Equipment Rack Helps Systems Keep their Cool

A newly installed equipment rack in systems has allowed the systems servers to maintain enhanced cooling and central placement within the systems area. The rack can house up to 42 units or 24 or more servers and is the flagship product of APC's NetShelter Line. Netshelter is a component of the InfrastruXure line of products which allows network rooms to scale according to demands. Special cooling panels and side vents maximize cooling, while consolidating servers to save space. The new rack was heralded into systems with an all night server moving party in late March. A special thanks go to Michael Mathon, John Diaz and David Brodosi who helped in the migration.

Library Introduces USFSP Distance Learning Site

Podcasting, streaming video, portable classes- are just a few buzz words for the recent emerging technologies in Higher Education. The University of South Florida St. Petersburg is getting into the action, by digitizing and offering classes online. The Instructional Media department is teaming up with the Poynter Library systems department to help make it happen, by creating a central portal to access these technologies. Powerpoint presentations and podcasts of lectures will be housed on the Distance Learning Server, accompanied by streaming content from Tampa's NetCast site.

A collection point for USFSP courses, the site will allow the students registered for the classes to browse online content for select courses including Chemistry I, Autism, Abnormal Psychology, and Bible as Literature and School Law. If you would like to preview the site, point your browser to www.dl.usf.edu. For more information on Pod Casting, read the recent article in the USF St. Petersburg news.