Technology

Frequently Asked Questions About NMH Educational Technology

I am looking for a computer for my child to use next year. What computers are compatible with the NMH network?
Fortunately, most computers purchased today are compatible with the NMH network. To order a computer compatible with the NMH network, click here.  For more information about minimum specifications, click here.

Should I buy an office software suite?
No.  NMH supplies each of its students with the full Microsoft Office Suite via the virtual desktop.  This means that NMH students are never farther from their work than the nearest Internet-connected computer.  NMH strongly recommends, and many classes require, that students do all of their school work on their virtual desktop to avoid document loss caused by computer failure, viruses, etc.

There are free alternative available for those students who still need to access an office software suite. Once such alternative is OpenOffice.org, which has versions for Windows and Macintosh computers.

Do I need to prepare my computer before bringing it to NMH?
Beginning in the Fall of 2007, NMH will automatically scan your computer during registration for certain vulnerabilities before being allowed to connect to the NMH network. Usually problems can be avoided if your computer has all the necessary critical updates installed:

• For Windows PC's, go you http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com and install Critical Updates.
• For Apple Macintosh computers, select 'Software Update...' from the Apple Menu.

For longer term computer health and for better support, you will need functioning and up to date Virus Protection Software as well as the restore CD's provided by your manufacturer. Some computers do not come with Restore CD's, but will allow you to create them during your initial set-up. We encourage you to do this.

NMH finds that 'Security Suite' software (software that includes a firewall, 'zone' protection and anti-virus software all-in-one) will often conflict with our network services and can make connections difficult. 'Security Suite' should be disabled or uninstalled. Built-in OS (Operating System) firewalls and basic Virus Protection software are adequate.

Should I get a broadband Internet connection?
The virtual desktop's performance is dependent on the network connection it is using. While dial-up Internet connections work well, broadband connections provide an experience for students that is nearly identical to being on campus. NMH has invested in a special high-speed Internet connection that is reserved for students using their virtual desktops from home or when traveling. Broadband Internet access is required to take advantage of this facility. Families of day students especially should consider upgrading their Internet service to broadband if possible.

Can NMH students use their virtual desktops during the summer?
Yes. Currently enrolled students may use their virtual desktop and SWIS over the summer break and during other holidays. Use of NMH networks when school is in or out of session is governed by the appropriate use policy.

What support is available on campus?
A staff of experienced technicians and trained student assistants is available to help resolve problems. In addition, NMH technicians assist students in securing warranty repairs.

The Library 'Information Commons' is also staffed daily for walk-up service computer service. Should your computer require repair (or Warranty Repair) beyond what NMH can provide, we can work with you to secure repair either through the computer manufacturer or an off-site repair vendor (or fee-based repair in the case of Out Of Warranty repairs). NOTE: In the event that your computer needs to be 're-imaged', you must be able to provide the restore discs supplied by your vendor or manufacturer.

How does the technology work?
Students have personalized access to a variety of software tools, information resources, personal documents, e-mail, and campus news.

• Every computer on campus and nearly any computer anywhere in the world with a good Internet connection can be used. Students log on and immediately see the personal desktop and the school-provided software on it. This is called a virtual computer desktop.

• Software on the virtual desktop and student documents are stored and protected on a centralized collection of powerful servers. A student working on a document in her or his room can move to another computer, log on, and find the document on the screen just as she or he left it, even if it wasn't saved.

• Each student must have exclusive access to a computer at in their dormitory room or at home, and classrooms, libraries, and student centers are equipped with permanently installed computers that will connect to the NMH network.

What is the technology fee and what does it support?
The technology fee of $415 supports the systems needed to deliver the virtual desktop, the school’s Internet connection, and technical support.