FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: Why can’t I eat in the lab?
A: There are a few reasons. First, we are trying to avoid an invasion of bugs, mice or other pests into the lab. Having food crumbs and spilled drinks all over the floor would only encourage these pests. Second, spilling or dropping anything on the carpets forces us to replace them much sooner than we should need to. At an estimated $10,000 to replace the lab’s carpets, it is in our best interest to keep everything clean. This money comes out of funds that would otherwise be applied to student and departmental expenses. Finally, the computers themselves and their peripherals (eg keyboards and monitors) can be easily damaged by spilled drinks or food.
Q: If I can’t eat in the lab, then where can I go when I’m hungry?
A: There is a designated area in the hall outside the lab, or you can go upstairs to the ASCE lounge on the 3rd floor.
Q: Is it true that we get free copies of Microsoft Office and Windows? How do I get my CDs?
A: All CEE students are eligible to receive CD copies of Windows XP Professional and Microsoft Office 2003 (Windows), or an installed copy of Microsoft Office 2004 (Macintosh). At the moment, we are not offering installation media for Macintosh computers – you will need to bring your computer to one of the help staff employees to have us install it. Email us at help@ce.washington.edu to arrange a time.
Q: Can I get a free copy of Matlab? How about the ArcGIS suite or AutoCAD?
A: Unfortunately, we do not have licenses for every student to get their own copy of software from the computer lab. As the previous question explained, we can provide Microsoft Office and Windows XP, but software from other manufacturers is not available for free distribution. However, this link will show you the list of software available to students at greatly-discounted prices through the University Bookstore, or you can browse the UW Software Guide to see volume-licensed software available to students, staff and faculty.
Q: Where is the computer lab located, and how do I get access to it?
A: The CEE student computer lab is located in More 01. Follow the main staircase down to the ground floor and take a right as you come out the door. Access to this lab is granted only to CEE students, or individuals enrolled in a CEE course. Talk to Mike in More 011 (next to the computer lab) to have your Husky Card activated.
Q: What are the lab hours?
A: The lab is open nearly every day of the year, through the night. Exceptions to this are a few days during breaks during which maintenance and upgrades are performed on the computers.
Q: How do I reserve the teaching lab for my class/group meeting/presentation?
A: Go to this link and follow the instructions to reserve a classroom, projector, teaching lab, or camera.