Bringing a computer

[sandicinderelli]

Hey, everyone!

I have a Dell desktop computer that I want to bring to the CP with me, since it's recommended that you bring one. But my tower is so big, and I was wondering if it is REALLY necessary to bring one. Do you really need it or is it just an issue of convenience? Is the Disney computer lab good enough?

Please share your thoughts. Thanks.

 

[DisneySaint]

Everyone I know here says they'd die w/o their PC, so I'd bring it. Especially if you use it frequently.

 

[steviej]

wow, youd think they would have some kind of computer labs set up in the apartments?

 

[joanna71985]

They do have computer labs, but they are not the best. I would say to bring your computer.

 

[MMP]

I'd bring it, you could always use the learning centers at Vista or Chatham but that's kind of a hassle and they aren't open 24/7.

 

[coasterphil]

I couldn't imagine living without guarenteed access to a computer so I'd definitely bring my own.

 

[daringstoic]

The computer labs do suck. I'm an internet addict, so coming down without my laptop was NOT an option. One of my roomies had a desktop though, and we just set it up on the table in the living room. On another note, I'd highly recommend that you bring a wireless router down with you if you have one, because the routers in the room only have 4 ports (if you're lucky and all 4 work), and we were constantly switching out ethernet cables, accidentally disconnecting each other, and tripping on the wires scattered all over the floor until we got one.

 

[Mecha Figment]

yeah those routers were prety banged up. i think two of the four actualy worked on ours.

 

[disneygirl746kt]

The computer labs do suck. I'm an internet addict, so coming down without my laptop was NOT an option. One of my roomies had a desktop though, and we just set it up on the table in the living room. On another note, I'd highly recommend that you bring a wireless router down with you if you have one, because the routers in the room only have 4 ports (if you're lucky and all 4 work), and we were constantly switching out ethernet cables, accidentally disconnecting each other, and tripping on the wires scattered all over the floor until we got one.

can you explain about the wireless router? I have a laptop, which I plan on taking with me if and when I am accepted into the Career Start Program next fall. I do understand the concept of using one, but if I share a router with some of the girls who have desktop computers (that don't have wireless) how much more would the wireless help me?

 

[Monty]

can you explain about the wireless router? I have a laptop, which I plan on taking with me if and when I am accepted into the Career Start Program next fall. I do understand the concept of using one, but if I share a router with some of the girls who have desktop computers (that don't have wireless) how much more would the wireless help me?

If you have wireless, it doesn't matter how many in the room need cables and how many ports are available, you can connect any time. Just make sure you set up for secure connections rather than an open router. Other people can do some pretty scary things using your router otherwise.

Also, if the others have desktops, they can also use wireless if they buy a card. Not too expensive and saves on wire clutter in the room.

 

[disneygirl746kt]

If you have wireless, it doesn't matter how many in the room need cables and how many ports are available, you can connect any time. Just make sure you set up for secure connections rather than an open router. Other people can do some pretty scary things using your router otherwise.

Also, if the others have desktops, they can also use wireless if they buy a card. Not too expensive and saves on wire clutter in the room.

So if I buy the wireless router, they could buy the cards to join in on my router, right?

 

[Monty]

So if I buy the wireless router, they could buy the cards to join in on my router, right?

Yes. Wireless routers can connect with multiple wireless devices simultaneously. If you run a secure [encrypted] router, you would provide them with a "key" or a "keyphrase" and a router name to enter into the software of their card to connect to your router. It is usually preferable to have all the cards and the router the same manufacturer, but not necessary.

If you run in unencrypted mode, anyone within range can access the internet using your connection. I strongly recommend against that.

A Wireless-G router will allow up to 32 wireless connections at 54Mbps.

 

[disneygirl746kt]

Yes. Wireless routers can connect with multiple wireless devices simultaneously. If you run a secure [encrypted] router, you would provide them with a "key" or a "keyphrase" and a router name to enter into the software of their card to connect to your router. It is usually preferable to have all the cards and the router the same manufacturer, but not necessary.

If you run in unencrypted mode, anyone within range can access the internet using your connection. I strongly recommend against that.

A Wireless-G router will allow up to 32 wireless connections at 54Mbps.

Hey thank you so much for the help.:animwink: Now I know what to look for when I go down next year.