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Topics Map > Technology Purchasing > Software
Topics Map > Technology Purchasing > Hardware
ITS FAQ (Branch campuses): NSR 2020
ITS frequently asked questions for students planning to attend classes on the Richland or Baraboo Sauk County branch campuses
A.
Solid-state hard drives are easily the fastest and can change boot-up
time from around a minute to five seconds. However, a solid-state drive
provides much less storage space for your dollar. With a regular hard
drive, you can get a lot of storage cheaply, but it will be slow in
comparison. If you want speed from your computer, we recommend you get
the solid state. If you decide you need more storage later, you can get
an external drive.
Q. General recommendations for computers (desktops, laptops, etc.)?
A.
It all depends how you will use the device. A laptop is a portable
option that still lets you use all the standard programs. A tablet or
Chromebook is good for taking notes, but they won't be able to support
most campus software. As for manufacturer, every company makes both bad
and good computers. It is less about who's making them and more about
the price range.
Q. Apple or PC?
A.
More often than not, this depends on personal preference. If you are in
the engineering program, see the question below about specific major
needs for more information. The ITS Help Desk supports both Windows and
Mac OS, and there is a case for both. In the end, it is really up to
you.
Q. What kind of computer do I need? I am a/an [insert area of study here] major.
A.
It depends on how you intend to use your computer. If you use computer
labs or virtual machines for major-specific programs, the requirements
for your personal device will be standard. ITS maintains a virtual
desktop environment that students can connect to anywhere there is an
internet connection. The virtual desktop allows you to use campus
software on your personal device as if you are on a campus computer.
Suggested generic laptop specs
| Processor | RAM | Operating System | Storage Space |
| Intel i5 or equivalent (AMD Ryzen 3) |
8 GB | Apple, Windows, Linux | 500 GB+ |
If you need special software installed on your own personal computer, there will be special requirements. This is primarily a concern for students in engineering. That software will require Windows or a workaround, as many do not offer a Mac version.
Q. What is the ITS Knowledge Base?
A.
The ITS Knowledge Base contains information and guides for many campus
systems and procedures. You can access it at kb.uwplatt.edu. The mobile
version, KB4U, is available free for Android or iOS. Tech support at
your fingertips!
Q. How do I access the virtual desktop?
A.
Instructions for both Windows and Macs are posted in the ITS Knowledge
Base. Go to kb.uwplatt.edu and search "virtual" or just click here.
Q. What software is available to me as a student?
A.
As part of your Office 365 account, you have access to five free MS
Office licenses to use on personal devices as long as you are enrolled
at UW-Platteville. Additionally, you are eligible to purchase software
at reduced prices through the WISC Software Catalog. Details are posted
online at https://campus.uwplatt.edu/help-desk/purchasing-technology
Q. What cell service provider should I have?
A.
US Cellular and Verizon work the best in our area. AT&T, T-Mobile,
and Sprint provide very limited service here. No matter what the
AT&T salesperson says, the range extenders do not work here and do
not work on our network.
Q. Do I need a printer?
A.
No, there are many printing stations all over campus. Each student is
allotted $3 in Passport funds per fall and spring semester for printing.
Accounts are charged $0.04/page for black and white and $0.10/page for
color. Charges over $3 are the student's responsibility. Unused
allotments do not carry over to the next term. See full details at Policy - Student Printing Policy and Procedures
Q. Do you hire students?
A.
Yes, we do! We typically hire in spring for the following summer and
academic year. Watch for posters, check out our Facebook page (UW-Platteville ITS Help Desk), and monitor the Handshake website.
Q. How can I get in contact with you?
A.
The ITS Help Desk is located on the 1st floor of the Karrmann Library
on the Platteville campus. Stop by, or feel free to contact us by phone
or email.
Website: https://go.uwplatt.edu/its-help-desk
Email: helpdesk@uwplatt.edu
Phone: 608.342.1400
Academic year hours
Monday through Thursday: 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Friday: 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
In
addition, a lab consultant is available by phone or email for limited hours in the early morning and evening
as well as on the weekend. Check the Help Desk website for specific
times.
Summer hours
Monday through Friday: 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: Closed