Computer Labs: FAQs

Printing Services, Academic and MetroConnect Accounts, Saving Files

What is the Print Solution?

Answer: Beginning spring 2007, the Metropolitan State College of Denver and the Metro State IT Department implemented a printing initiative to save paper and reduce costs associated with printing. The program works on an "allowance" system with each user being granted a $20.00 printing allowance to be used in the IT Labs for per semester. Printing costs are assessed against this allowance at the rate of 5 cents for each black and white page, and 10 cents for each color page. The When a document is printed, a pop-up will inform the user of the amount of pages in the current print job as well as the remaining balance on the account.

The initial $20.00 allowance is taken from each user student fees. Persons that use up their account allowance may purchase additional printing credit in WC 243 or WC 244 lab locations.

Question: What is the difference between an Academic (NT) account and a MetroConnect account?

Answer: Each student attending Metropolitan State College is given an Academic and MetroConnect account. The Academic (NT) account is for logging into the student lab computers, while MetroConnect accounts provide students and staff with access to the Metro student services such as e-mail, grades, financial aid etc. Both NT and MetroConnect accounts will always have the same username, but users are encouraged to maintain separate passwords for security purposes..

Question: What should I do if my computer is frozen? How often shoud I save my work?

Answer: Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete simultaneously, and once the Windows Task Manager window is open, highlight the activity that is frozen or waiting, (usually the very top item in the list). Than, simply click on End Task button. It is recommended that users save their work to a network location or pen drive at least once every 10 minutes to preserve their work in case of system or equipment failure.

Question: Who do I ask for help?

Answer: All labs are staffed with students who are available to answer general computer questions and orientate users to services available in the labs. Lab workers are only available to answer general questions and may not provide assistance with customer homework or other assignments.