Undergraduate Summer Research Program Responsibilities

Program participants will need to supply all computers and hardware for setting up and attaching the computers to the network.  This includes Ethernet cards and cabling. 

Computers

The minimum computer configuration recommended for use on the University network is as follows:

q       Pentium-class or Power PC 300 Mhz processor

q       64 MB RAM

q       300 MB free hard drive space

q       CD RM or DVD-ROM drive

q       For Windows computers:  Windows 98, Me, 2000, or XP

q       For Macintosh computers:  Mac 0S 9 or higher

q       10Base-T Ethernet Adapter

Ethernet cards

CSSD recommends using standard Ethernet cards which are capable of supporting both 10 MB and 100 MB connectivity rates.  Each card must have a twisted-pair connector.

Cabling

CSSD recommends using category 5 cabling and appropriate connectors based on the type of Ethernet connection.

Ports

CSSD has a one device per port policy.  For reference, the policy can be found online at technology.pitt.edu.   Since program participants are living in the residence halls, ports are available for each participant.  This year, there is no charge to use the ports in Brackenridge Hall for the Undergraduate Summer Research Program.

Other Considerations

Computing Ethics and Guidelines

All students using University computing resources must comply with the University of Pittsburgh Student Code of Conduct which is available for review at technology.pitt.edu.  Failure to follow the Student Code of Conduct will result in immediate termination of University computing privileges including network access. 

In addition, all users of University computing resources must comply with the ethics and guidelines published by CSSD.  The ethics and guidelines are available for review at technology.pitt.edu. 

Computer Security

q       Copyright Infringement:  Illegal file sharing from the University network is strictly prohibited.  Representatives from the recording industry and software industries aggressively seek out copyright violations from the Internet.  These companies will contact the University when computers connected to the University network are found to be illegally sharing copyright protected material such as software, movies and music.  The use of file-sharing programs such as Kazaa, LimeWire and Gnutella at the University is strongly discouraged because of the risk that the files being shared may be copyright protected material.  The procedure for handling these complaints includes notification in writing of the complaint and termination of University network access.  The University's Procedure for Handling Complaints Against Resident Students and Other Network Computer Users is available on the 'Students' page of technology.pitt.edu.  If the University receives a complaint from a copyright holder and the computer associated with that complaint is in use by the  Undergraduate Summer Research Program the same procedures will be followed; the individual will be notified in writing and network access will be terminated immediately. 

q       Computer Viruses:  Computer viruses are a serious concern on the University network.  CSSD recommends that all network users ensure that their operating systems are up-to-date in order to avoid dangerous security vulnerabilities that can allow viruses to infect their computers and other computers attached to the University network.  If CSSD learns of a virus on a computer that is attached to the University network, the individual is notified and network access is terminated immediately.  The same procedure applies to the computers in use by the Undergraduate Summer Research Program.

q       Compromised Computers:  Compromised (hacked) computers are also a problem on the University network.  Hackers take advantage of vulnerabilities present in computer software and operating systems in order to use networked computers for illegal purposes, vandalize systems, or to gain access to resources that they are not authorized to access. The best defense against compromised equipment is to keep software and operating systems up-to-date with the most current security patches.   If CSSD learns of a compromised computer that is attached to the University network the individual is notified and network access is terminated immediately. The same procedure applies to the computers in use by the Undergraduate Summer Research Program.

Communication

CSSD will work directly with the Undergraduate Summer Research Program Director or a designated representative concerning any problems or questions for the duration of the program.  If the program participants have questions regarding their network connections, they should contact the Technology Help Desk at 412 624-HELP [4357]. 

Computing Labs

The Undergraduate Summer Research Program students will have use of all CSSD labs during established hours of operation.  CSSD will notify the OEL Director, who will notify the student's program coordinator if there are any usage or conduct problems in the labs.

Computer Support

Computer Support is available by calling the Technology Help Desk at 412 624-HELP [4357].  If on-site assistance is requested, there will be a charge associated with the visit.  The charge for departmental programs is $50 per hour.  An estimate of the cost for a specific request will be given to the individual making the request and the Director of the program prior to the appointment being scheduled.