About Valparaiso Law
Technology FAQs
Changing the law school network password
Changing the E-mail or DataVU password
E-mail client software
I can read e-mail but can't send or reply
I forgot one or more of my passwords
I want to forward my Valpo e-mail to another account
WebMail and/or DataVU doesn't work in my browser
Accessing Galileo (online library catalog)
Using undergraduate computer facilities
Dial-up internet access
Anti-Virus software
Pop-Up/Spyware/Adware
Wireless access at Valpo Law
Taking exams online
E-Mail listservs
Pay for print system
I need something printed in color
So you want to buy a new computer...
Can I purchase software through the school?
My computer's broke and I need help
Changing the law school network password
For all students faculty, and adjunct faculty, to change your password for your LAWSCHOOL domain account, you first need to login to the network on any of the computer lab computers or your office computer. Obviously, if you are unable to do so because of an existing problem with either your account or password, you will first need to see me (JMO) to unlock or reset your account.
After logging on to the network, press the Ctrl-Alt-Del sequence you use to login and then select the "Change Password" button on the screen. The computer will prompt you for your current password and then your new password. Make sure you retype your new password correctly in the verification line or it will reject your attempt at making the change. Important note: Changing your network password does not change your e-mail or DataVU password! top
Changing the E-mail or DataVU password
At Valpo, the password for your e-mail (SendMail) account and your DataVU account (used for class registration, grade lookup, etc.), are one and the same. However, changing the password for those accounts is slightly more involved than changing your network login password.
At home or at any non-computer lab computer, go to the START button (lower left of screen), select RUN from the menu, and in the window that appears, type "telnet pluto.valpo.edu" (without the quotes, of course). After logging on to the system (user your existing e-mail username and password), type "dmipasswd" (no quotes) at the prompt. At this point, the computer will once again ask for your existing username and password, and will then ask for a new password. A change in a UNIX system password requires that the new password be at least 6 characters in length and must contain at least one non-alphabetic character (number, punctuation symbol, etc.). If the system accepts the new password, it will ask you to verify the password. If successful, you will see a message on the screen that reflects the appropriate changes made to your account. At the prompt, type "logout" and you will be returned to your normal computer screen.
If you are using one of the computer lab PCs, there is an icon on the desktop that will launch a Telnet session directly to pluto.valpo.edu.
If you are using a Macintosh and have System 9.2 or lower, you will need a terminal emulation program such as NCSA Telnet for Mac. After starting Telnet and going to "pluto.valpo.edu", the process is the same as above. If you are using Mac System X, a Telnet program is built into the system. For OS X, Windows XP, or Windows 2000, you can launch a telnet session and program by typing "telnet://pluto.valpo.edu" into your web browser's address line to bring up the program. Once logged on, the procedure is the same as above. top
E-mail client software (Click to access Webmail)
There are several ways to access your Valpo e-mail account. The mail server is powered by software referred to as "Groupwise". There are many pieces of software that one can use to access his or her mail on the server. At this point in time, Mulberry and Mozilla's Thunderbird are the only e-mail clients that EIS (Electronic Information Services) supports. Both of those products are accessible for download via the aforementioned EIS web page. EIS also supports the accessing of e-mail through the WebMail system as well as PINE, using either PCPine or Pine through a telnet connection. If you don't know what I am referring to by Pine or if you have never used it, then you should probably not concern yourself with it.
Other e-mail client options include Microsoft's Outlook and Outlook Express, Eudora, Netscape's Navigator (e-mail built-in), and many others. Be forewarned that EIS does not officially support any of these products and will not be held responsible for mail that is accessed through them.
One of the fundamental differences between Mulberry and Outlook is that the Address Book entries that are created in Mulberry/WebMail will follow you around from PC to PC as they are stored on the IMAP server. Outlook's Contact List (address book) is stored locally in the profile of the user on the individual PC. Only institutions using an Exchange server can avoid this. Valpo Law does not utilize an Exchange server.
If you'd like to use any of the non-EIS methods of accessing your mail, there are some settings you will need to know. First, the incoming mail server is called "mailsrv1.valpo.edu". After typing that in, the client software usually asks what type of e-mail server you are using. You should select the "IMAP" choice and not the POP or POP3 choice(s). By choosing IMAP, all of your mail is stored remotely and is always accessible. If you choose POP, all of your mail is physically downloaded to whichever computer you are currently using and is stripped from the Valpo mail server. This is bad. The outgoing or SMTP server should be set to "mailhub.valpo.edu". The software will then usually ask for your username and password to access the servers you have declared. That's all there is to it. If you have configured everything correctly and can read your mail, but are unable to send or reply, please read the next section. top
I can read e-mail but can't send or reply
This problem frequently occurs when your internet service provider (ISP) at home is not the University through our dial-up connection. Some popular local ISPs include AOL, MSN, NetNitco, CrownNet, Concentrix, Comcast Cable (formerly AT&T Broadband), LELCompany DSL, and Verizon DSL. The send or reply problem is a result of having conflicting outgoing mail servers (SMTP) for the connection.
As mentioned in the previous FAQ listing the university SMTP server is called "mailhub.valpo.edu". This is accessible to you if you are on campus or are using the University as your service provider. However, if you use a different ISP, that provider has its own SMTP server and that name is what needs to be placed in your e-mail client's outgoing or SMTP server field. You may also need to enter an authorizing username and password in order to send mail out. In many instances, you will need to contact your provider for this information.
The only nice way around this problem is to have two different mail clients set up, or at the very least, two different access profiles within your mail client (Outlook). If you are using Mulberry, leave it as it came with "mailhub.valpo.edu" as the SMTP setting. Then, configure another client such as Outlook or Outlook Express with the incoming as "mailsrv1.valpo.edu" and the outgoing server set to whatever your ISP tells you. Outlook Express has a nice feature that allows you to create multiple profiles under the same account to assist with problems like this.
If you are using WebMail, you will never experience this problem as all processing actually takes place on the web server itself, so all of the settings are already correct to send and receive e-mail. top
I forgot one or more of my passwords
If you have forgotten your law school network password, send me an e-mail at john.obermann@valpo.edu or stop by my office (235) and leave me a note. The same applies if you have been locked out of your law school account due to too many failed login attempts (3).
If you need you are a student and need your e-mail password reset, you must contact the EIS help desk at 219-464-5678 and request a reset. EIS will require you to bring your student id with you to the Christopher Center (undergraduate computer center and library) to verify your identity and request. Your password will be reset to your student ID number.
If you are a faculty or staff member, I can make this request for you, and your password will be reset to your employee ID number. top
I want to forward my Valpo e-mail to another account
As you were made aware at orientation and also throughout class registrations, it is mandatory that you check your Valpo e-mail account on a regular basis. However, if you wish all of your Valpo e-mail to be routed or forwarded to a different mail account, there is a convenient form that EIS provides to perform this service. Just point your web browser to the EIS Online Service Center and follow the directions. You will need your e-mail username and password to access this system. top
WebMail and/or DataVU doesn't work in my browser
If, after attempting to navigate your way to either Webmail or DataVU, you get a blank page or an error page returned to you, then you probably need to upgrade your web browser software and/or your operating system software.
Both of those systems, as well as many other web sites, require a secure internet connection. This is done through the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) that is embedded in your web browser. The problem with some browsers is that the amount of encryption that is embedded in the browser may not be enough to properly "shake hands" with the server on the other end. If the browser and the web server cannot create a secure connection between them, you will obviously not be able to see the page you are attempting to view.
Most of VU's secure web servers require a minimum of 56-bit encryption, with some requiring 128-bit security. Some older browsers are still only equipped to communicate with a 40-bit encryption cipher. Our web server will reject any negotiations attempted by these browsers. So, upgrade your browser and/or download a high-encryption pack for your browser and everything should work fine.
If you have a web browser whose encryption cipher is high enough, you will either be presented with a certificate for you to view and/or approve, or you will automatically be granted access to the site and the little lock will appear in the bottom of your browser, indicating that you are now accessing a secure web browser. top
Accessing Galileo (online library catalog)
There are two ways to access Galileo, the university's online card catalog system. The first, and probably most convenient method is to use the new web interface. The address for the web-based Galileo is "http://galileo.valpo.edu". The other way to access Galileo is through a Telnet connection. Again, point your Telnet client to "galileo.valpo.edu" and you're all set. top
Using undergraduate computer facilities
In order to use any of the computers on the undergraduate side of campus, you will need to use your Novell/NDS login. All law students have an NDS account, even though they are only used on the other side of campus. Login information is as follows:
.username.first letter of last name.stu.vu
for John Doe it would be ".jdoe.d.stu.vu"
Your username and password are the same as they are for both e-mail and DataVU. top
Dial-up internet access
The University offers dial-up access to the internet for all of its students, faculty, and staff. You will need your e-mail username and password to authenticate yourself to the system before you will be allowed online.
The telephone number for the modem pool is 219-464-6700. Obviously, if you don't live in Porter County, it doesn't make much sense to use the University as your service provider, as your long-distance charges will be much greater than paying for a connection through a local internet service provider (ISP).
There is no special software used to connect to and through the University (unlike AOL, Juno, CompuServe, etc.). Look in your computer's operating system manual or help files to learn how to "add a dial-up internet connection" to your system. top
Anti-Virus Software
In order to get your laptop initially placed onto the wireless network, you must have an up-to-date anti-virus solution installed and running on your laptop. Almost every laptop comes with a free trial version of some kind of antivirus solution. Several popular manufacturers include Symantec, McAfee, AVG, and Computer Associates. Any one of these is sufficient and may contain extra features that assist in blocking various pieces of Spyware, Pop-Ups, and Adware.
The university also provides a free copy of the Symantec Corporate Anti-Virus software to all enrolled students. This software is strictly an anti-viral engine without any pop-up or adware detection or removal. However, the software and the virus definition updates for it are free for as long as you are enrolled. Most commercial anti-virus programs cost approximately $45 per year for definition and program updates.
The free Symantec Corporate Edition software is available through Electronic Information Services. You will need to have your e-mail username and password in order to download the software. top
Pop-Up/Spyware/Adware
Pop-ups, spyware, and adware are three types of annoyances of which I'm sure your computer will eventually be plagued. Several full versions of popular anti-virus software now contain tools to contain and remove adware and spyware threats. If you end up using the free Corporate version of Symantec through the university, you will probably want to invest in an adware/spyware removal program. Several popular brands are on the market. Some are free and some others involve a one-time charge for installation. The brand (not free) that Valpo Law recommends is XoftSpy (~$35.00). Several other brands include Ad-Aware (Lavasoft) and Spybot Search & Destroy. top
Wireless access at Valpo Law
Valpo Law supports an 802.11b wireless Ethernet network for its students, faculty and staff. There are currently 14 transmitters scattered throughout the building that provide a wireless Internet connection to any devices configured for our system. You must have a wireless card to take exams electronically at Valpo Law.
To access the system, your laptop or PDA must have a WiFi-enabled interface, either by an external 802.11b wireless card, or by an internal card and antenna system (all of the Intel Centrino-based laptops are WiFi enabled). An external wireless card can be purchased at any office supply store (Staples, Office Max, etc.). The cards cost approximately $35.00.
Once you have a card, either internal or external, you will need to see me (JMO) to register your card into the system and to make sure your card software is correctly configured for our network. Once we have your laptop registered into the system, you will not need to visit me again unless you lose your card or you get a new laptop with embedded WiFi technology. Important note: I will not allow your laptop to be a part of the wireless network without an up to date anti-viral solution installed and operating on your laptop.
For accessing the wireless system outside the law school in any of the WiFi enabled buildings on campus, you will need to install the university's VPN client software. The software is available for download from the EIS web page. It is important to note that the software will currently only run on Windows 2000 and XP devices. There will be support in the future for Palm/CE/Apple devices. You must "run" the VPN client software prior to attempting to access your e-mail or launching your web browser. The username and password to authenticate to the VPN system is the same as your e-mail/DataVU credentials.
If you have wireless access at your apartment or residence, we can configure your card to work on both systems without too much hassle. top
Taking exams online
In order to use the ExamSoft software to take your exam(s) online, you must already have a laptop and an enabled wireless card. Your laptop must be running some flavor of Windows in order to load and run the ExamSoft system. You will not be allowed to use a University-owned computer to take your exam(s) online!
If you meet the above conditions, then you will need to come to one of the informational seminars offered by Karen Koelemeyer, our resident ExamSoft administrator. Near the end of each semester, you will need to inform the Registrar's office of which exams you would like to take online. After that, there will be sign-up sheets at Mrs. Koelemeyer's desk that you will need to fill out. After attending one of the training sessions, you will need to install the ExamSoft software on your laptop and then take the practice exam. All of these details are covered in depth at the training sessions.
You must attend one of the sessions and take the ExamSoft practice exam before you will be able to take your real exam online! top
E-Mail Listservs
Valparaiso University uses a Majordomo system to handle all of its listserv needs. For Valpo Law students, you will automatically be placed on several listservs throughout your academic career. Each student is a member of the 1L, 2L, 3L, LLM, or PT lists, depending upon their year in law school. The lists are not moderated, and although not mandatory, Valpo Law asks that all messages desired to be sent on those lists be sent through the Dean's Office. It is important that all messages sent on these lists be academic in nature or for the general welfare of the school and not be used for personal venture or discussion. Abuse of these lists may result in disciplinary action and temporary moderation of the list(s).
Each class offered throughout the semester also has a listserv associated with it. The professor of that class is the contact point for the list (i.e. Law Seminar 590B has listserv called "law590b" associated with it).
The faculty and staff are also members of a listserv automatically. The faculty are all members of the "lawfac" list and the staff are members of "lawstaff". Most faculty and staff are also members of several lists generated by various organizational, council, and meeting groups throughout the campus.
Generally, when you have been subscribed to a list, you will receive a message in your e-mail telling you of the list to which you have been added, as well as any instructions on how to remove yourself from said list. There are instances where you will be unable to remove yourself because of the nature of the list. Some list administrators will not allow voluntary withdrawal of some lists. EIS has compiled an excellent primer on basic Majordomo usage which you may find helpful, particularly when you may be having difficulty unsubscribing to a list which you no longer wish to be on. top
Pay for Print system
Valpo Law uses a "pay for print" system in the student computer labs to help control excessive print waste. Each student begins the academic year with 500 pages of paper credited to his or her network account. Obviously, each page printed deducts one page from the student's account. Students can check their print balances at any time by rolling the mouse pointer over the dollar sign that appears in the lower right corner of any of the computer lab PCs.
Students can purchase additional pages from either Jan Zoladz or John Obermann throughout the work week. Students must plan ahead if they think they may run out of paper and will need additional sheets credited to their accounts over the weekend.
Each page costs $0.05. Valpo Law prefers if students purchase paper in increments of at least $5.00, but will take less if the situation demands. Any amount left in a student's account will carry over into the next academic year. So, if a student only uses 200 pages of the allotted 500 for a particular year, she will start the next year with 800 sheets in her account.
Since the print balance is directly connected to the students' network accounts, it is very important that each student logout of the computer when he or she is finished working. top
I need something printed in color
If you need something printed in color, you have three options. If it is only one or two pages, and is something simple like a Word document or a few pictures the Career Planning and Placement Center might be willing to help you out if they have the time.
If you have a bigger job, either in physical size, complexity, or both, I can print the job for you on our color laser printer. Each page will cost $0.25 to print, regardless of size. I can print on paper up to 12" x 18" (full-bleed Tabloid). Although not mandatory, I would prefer the printing on this device to be geared toward academic work. If the job(s) to be printed are personal, I will get to them when I have a few spare moments during the week.
The last option is to take your work to an office supply store (Staples, Office Max, etc.) or to a quick-print shop (ExpressPress, BRQ Quickprint, etc.) and have them print the job(s) for you. If you need several hundred color prints or copies, this is probably your best option, as it will be cheaper and quicker.
If you need to make color copies, you can either visit an office supply store, or you can contact Melissa Mundt, our Office Manager, and she will make arrangements to have your work color copied. Note, copies are $0.25 each. If you are a member of a student organization or a faculty/staff member with a code for the color copier, your account(s) will be billed accordingly. top
So you want to buy a new computer...
Buying a new computer can be a frustrating experience for novice and expert alike. Although Valpo Law does not prefer one vendor over another, there are some things you should look for when choosing a computer.
The first decision to make is whether to get a laptop or desktop computer. If you think you will want to take any of your exams online, you will need your own Windows-based laptop computer with a wireless ethernet card (802.11b). If you do not wish to take your exams online, both the PowerBook and the iBook from Apple are excellent laptops and can also be fitted with wireless gear to connect to the Internet from within the law school.
If you are considering a desktop, any make and manufacturer is fine. Valpo Law has purchased PC hardware from almost every major manufacturer on the market. We have had success and failure from each vendor. That being said, you should not believe the hype that one brand is better than another. What counts is how much you get for your money and how long that product lasts. IBM, Dell, Fujitsu, Compaq, HP, Apple, Toshiba, Gateway, and others all make fine products.
As for software, Valpo Law lab computers use Microsoft Office XP Professional as the productivity suite. However, if you have your own printer and wish to do all of your work on your own computer, it doesn't matter what software you use (or even a typewriter). But, if you wish to be able to work on your files both in and out of the computer lab, then you will want something that is compatible with MS Word, Excel, or PowerPoint. The MS Office for Apple's OS X, as well as the older Office 98 for Mac, is completely compatible with the PC file format. top
Can I purchase software through the school?
No. Unlike several state schools, we do not have any arrangements with specific software vendors, such as Microsoft, Corel, or Adobe. There are several local retailers in the area that carry copies of current and popular software titles. Some of these include Wal-Mart, Staples, Best Buy, Circuit City, and the University Book Center. top
My computer's broken and I need help
I am more than happy to look at your ailing computer. In several instances, the problem is resolved simply by making a few software adjustments. However, given the time constraints placed on me and my assistant, we will most likely refer you to Bucher Technologies for software or hardware repair. Valpo Law has arranged a special discounted repair fee with Bucher for all law student laptops (or desktops).
Bucher Technologies will have a dedicated technician to service all law school students and will be available for consultation every Thursday morning from 8:00 to 12:00, starting January 20th. They are located on the north side of town, just off Calumet at 402 Wall St. Their telephone number is 465-4500.
Bucher will be able to clean adware/spyware/viruses from your computer and will also have a copy of the university's free student version of Symantec Corporate Anti-Virus to install on your laptop should you choose to use it instead of your own paid version of anti-virus software.
Obviously, the preferred route is to have your computer repaired under a warranty contract with your computer vendor or retailer. However, this is not always feasible. Other vendors can repair your laptop as well, including Chester's Technology, Inc. as well the usual outlets like BestBuy and Circuit City. Most will only service equipment that is out of warranty with the OEM.
Should your laptop need repair, under warranty, and you purchased it through an electronics/appliance store such as Best Buy, Fretter, Circuit City, etc., make sure you back up all of your files prior to having it serviced. Those companies have a notorious habit of formatting hard disks to "see if it fixes the problem" before they send it back to the manufacturer for repair service. Obviously, the same holds true for any OEM like Gateway, Dell, Compaq, IBM, etc. top