General Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I boot into Linux?
- Where do I check my internet usage?
- How do I setup UofA wireless on my laptop?
- Transferring files to and from non-University computers using Remote Files
- How do I setup Dial up from home?
- What are the software available on the CATS student machines?
- How do I request for software installation on CATS computers?
- Teaching software available for student download
Booting into Linux
All PCs are configured to Dual Boot which means that they can run two operating systems. These systems are:
- Windows XP Professional Workstation
- Red Hat Linux (UNIX)
You can reboot XP using the Ctrl-Alt-Del login sequence:
Shutdown => Shutdown and Restart
You can reboot a Linux System from the login screen GUI option.
When you reboot a computer a screen will appear soon after boot with the following choices:
- Windows XP
- Linux
Use the UP/DOWN arrow keys to highlight the one you want. You have 10 seconds to make a choice or the system will boot to Windows XP by default.
Checking internet usage
Please click here to check your internet usage. Students are allocated 1GB-2GB of internet quota per semester, depending whether you are an undergrad, international, honours or postgrad student.
You will be able to read up more on internet access, usage, quota and charges from the Student Internet Access website.
*University is trialing FREE afterhours internet, between 8pm - 8am, 7 days a week.
Setting up UofA Wireless on personal laptop
The University provides different online configuration guides for different operating systems. Students should be able to follow the guides to setup Uni wireless on their personal laptop. In the event they need assistance, they can approach CATS staff or go to the face-to-face wireless support at Barr Smith Library on Level 3.
Students can also find out more information on wireless coverage on the different campuses around Uni, requirements of laptop, and general wireless FAQ from ITS Wirelss Homepage.
Transferring files to and from non-University computers using Remote Files
Remote Files is a web based tool that allows students and staff to transfer files on your network share drive using a web browser. For external access to University fo Adelaide servers via your Internet Service Provider, you will need to install the VPN Client. Then simply browse to https://remotefiles.adelaide.edu.au/ to login.
Setting up Dial Up from home
The University provides students and staff to access the internet remotely using dial up. Kindly proceed to the ITS Dial Up website for requirements of your PC, software to download and install, and setup guides.
Software available on CATS student machines
CATS image has up to over 200 teaching applications - please click here to find out the software available for each engineering school.
Due to the large number of applications on the CATS image, only basic software shortcuts are available on the desktop and start menu upon logging in. This avoids an overly large list of items in your start menu, many of which you will probably never use. Software is customised and delivered to you on a departmental basis, e.g only Mech Eng students will be able to access and see the software - Ansys12.
Please note: Due to licensing constraints not all software is available to all students. If your course requires access to a particular software package then you will automatically have access.
Student request for software installation on Uni computers
As the faculties own the facilities and computer suites you should first discuss any software requirements with your lecturer. They will make the decision as to whether your software request is warranted to support their teaching requirements. Teaching Technologies is unable to accept requests for new software from students. Advice of faults from students are still welcome via the Technology Services Helpdesk (831 33000 or servicedesk@adelaide.edu.au).
Requests for additions/changes to student computer suites are to come from academics and staff only.
Click here to read up more on software request.
Teaching software available for student download
There are currently two applications available for students to download for home use which are located on the D:\ drive on the CATS machines :
- Ansys (Version 11 & 12, in both 32 & 64bit)
- ProEngineer Wildfire (Version 3 & 4)
Please be aware that CATS staff have limited knowledge in installation and operation of these applications so please refer to your lecturer/tutor for software installation queries.
