Computer Lab - Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone use the computers in the lab?
No. The computer lab is only available to current USC students, Faculty, and Staff. The computer lab is not open to the general public because student technology fees are used to supply and maintain the equipment. Alumni or library card holders do not have access to the computer lab, but they are allowed to conduct research on the main level reference computers.

Can I save information to a disk?
Yes. All of the Dell computers come equipped with floppy disk and CD-RW drives. External Zip drives are available. The Apple computers come equipped with a CD-RW and DVD-RW drives. External floppy and Zip drives are available. All users have the option to save their files in the save folder located on the hard drive, however, these files are only for temporary storage. Files in the save folder can be modified or deleted by anyone using the computer. Users are also encouraged to save their work and send the information to their email accounts.

If I do not have a diskette, where can I get one?
If a patron wishes to own a floppy or a CD, they may be purchased at the computer lab desk.

Can I install my own software on the computers?
Patrons are not allowed to install their own software. If the software is necessary for a class assignment, the patron should seek help from a computer lab consultant.

Can I receive assistance if I am having trouble working in an application?
Yes, a lab consultant can assist you with any problems or concerns you may have.

Can I browse the web on these computers?
Yes. Internet Explorer, Netscape and Opera are the supported Web browsers in the lab.

Can I use these computers to do research?
Yes, these computers have access to the USCAN, the USC library Catalog and the USC Libraries Electronic Resources.

How do I login to the computer?
Patrons must know their userids and passwords to gain access to the computers. If a patron does not know his/her information, there is a computer located at the computer lab desk with steps to help a patron obtain his/her network username by using VIP. EPI students may obtain their username and password from the EPI department. Lab consultants can assist with problems.

What if I have problems logging onto my account, what do I do?
Patrons are encouraged to ask the lab consultants for help if they are experiencing difficulties logging in. If the lab consultant is unable to find a solution, there is a phone at the computer lab desk. The phone will allow you be connected with the services center at Computer services. This service is available Monday-Friday from 8am until 5pm.

What are the Lab hours?
During regular hours, the lab is open Monday thru Friday 7:30 am-11:45 pm. On Saturdays, the lab is open 10 am thru 7:45 pm. The lab is open 12 pm to 11:45 pm on Sundays. Hours are subject to change during exams, holidays, and intercessions.

How many Computers are available?
Currently, there are 120 Pentium 4 Windows 2000 Dells, 4 Macintosh, and 18 laptops available for use.

How do I pay for my printouts?
Patrons must pay for copies using their Carolina Card at the self-printing stations.  Lab consultants will be present of help is needed.

If I print from another floor in the library, where do I go to pick up my printouts?
All of the printouts may be picked up at the computer lab desk on the fifth level of the library.

Where can I get color printouts?
The computer lab has a color printer available and copies are .25 for each page.  Print jobs must be sent from designated computers in the lab.

Where can I checkout a laptop?
There are 18 notebooks available to be borrowed. However, the notebooks may only be used within the library. The notebooks are located in the computer lab and may be checked out with a valid USC ID.

Can I use the notebooks on any level of the library?
Yes. The notebooks can access the wireless LAN on all levels of the library to use the Internet or print.