Mac Lab Policies

Visual Arts Mac Lab Policy

• VA224 Mac Computer lab is open to all students, faculty, staff, and registered visitors of KSU. A Net ID and password is required to login to any computer on campus, including the Macs in VA224.
• All users should sign-in with their name, time, and type of Mac use at the front desk.
• Classroom use takes priority over general students use. This lab doubles as a classroom for certain times of the semester when studio visual arts classes need the computers to perform design projects using the computer applications. Personnel in Visual Arts will do their best to give at least an hour’s notice before the room must be used by a class.
• Priority usage of the Macs in VA224 go to the students who need to work on graphic design assignments. Students must sign-in upon entering the room with the time and the type of software used. Internet browsing, E-mail, and simple word-processing usage do not take priority. The Student Assistant in the room will monitor the computer usage in the room as more users need to enter the room. Students not using design software will be asked to leave to accommodate other students based on the length of time they have been using the lab.
• Once you are finished using the computer, log-out under the Apple Menu. DO NOT turn off the computers. They are set to go into sleep mode automatically.
• These computer lab policies are in addition to the campus-wide policies maintained by the Information Technology Service (ITS).

Tips for your first time using Mac computers

• All students must login to the computer with their Net ID and password. A short delay may occur on your first login attempt. If the your password is not accepted, you may have to reset your Net ID account. Ask the lab attendant for help.
• Once you are finished using the computer, log-out under the Apple Menu. DO NOT turn off the computers. They are set to go into sleep mode automatically.

Mac Lab Rules

• Be courteous to other lab users.
• No food, drinks, or children are allowed in the labs.
• Clear trash from you Mac station when finished working.
• Use recycling bins located throughout the building.
• Do not mark on desktops—you will be held responsible.
• Do not copy software—it’s illegal and prohibited.
• Do not change Mac or network wiring without instruction by faculty or staff.

Please E-mail Shane McDonald (smcdona4@kennesaw.edu) at the VARC if the lab assistant is not available or to report any inappropriate behavior in the labs. Shane McDonald is the coordinator of the Mac Lab and his office resides in the Visual Arts Resource Center (VARC). His office hours vary each semester. Please call or visit when door is open: (Room 223, 770-423-6557). If you would prefer to make complaints, comments or suggestions anonymously, please see our "suggestion box" on the wall between VA224 & VA223.

Saving and Storing Your Files

• When saving files, remember to append the file extension (.jpg, .doc, .pdf, .eps). PC computers often need extensions in order to recognize the file. If you forget to append the extension, simply add the extension manually and the PC will then recognize file type. It is also important to add these extensions to files that were created in Mac OS 9 or earlier.
• When working on files you are welcome to temporarily save files on the Mac HD, but do not count on the computer to have your files when you return to the computer. ITS (Information Technology Service Department) has the right and ability to delete all files from the computers and servers attached to the KSU network. Please purchase USB flash drives or mini-hard drives (available at computer supply stores for under $100) or blank CD-R/CD-RW/DVD-R disks to store your work. If using less expensive USB flash drives, please purchase more than one for a back-up.
• "files.kennesaw.edu" Speaking of back-up... Did you know that KSU students have the ability to store up to 250 MB of data on student-dedicated server space? This server space is accessible anywhere you have an Internet Connection. Login with your Net ID and password to: https://files.kennesaw.edu

Web space and development of goals

• Develop your online portfolio at http://atlas.kennesaw.edu/ using software we have available for you to use in the VA Mac lab.
• Students at KSU can benefit greatly from administrative departments on campus that help to prepare for educational and career goals. Centers to be sure to visit are:
  • Career Services Center for help with internships, resumés, job search, interviews, etc.
  • Counseling, Advising, and Program Services (CAPS) for counseling, advising, and testing on a personal, academic or career level
  • Institute for Global Initiatives for programs of study abroad among many other intercultural educational experiences
  • Center of Student Leadership prepares students to become ethical leaders in their studies, career, and community

More

If you would like a basic tutorial, the Mac Lab Tips page will help you to get started using the iMacs in VA224. If you would like a list of the software currently installed on the computers in the Mac Lab, visit the Mac Lab Applications page.