Transition to a New Computer

When replacing a computer, there are a few things that you need to do in order to assure an easy transition to your new system.

• Organize your Documents Folder: Document files are files you create such as books, articles, tests, spreadsheets, memos, etc. Both Macintosh and PC computers now come with a "Documents" folder. Make sure all your existing document files are in this folder. Look on the desktop, in your application folders and on your hard drive for any documents that you may want. Putting them in a central location now will insure that they get transferred to your new computer. And while you are looking at your files, it is a good time to create or consolidate subfolders, to keep your documents neatly organized.
  
  
• Customized Settings: Many programs on your computer allow you to customize certain settings. Some of these custom settings can also be transferred to your new computer. Your email (mailboxes and saved mail) and Netscape bookmarks can be transferred. Other settings such as custom dictionaries created in your word processing program may be able to be moved under limited conditions. Please make a list of those items that you may want transferred.
  
  
• List and Organize Special Items: You may have some special programs that you use on your computer. It will be helpful if you can gather together the original disks of any special programs that you will need. If the software can still be used and there are any special settings that you may have created for those programs, please make a list of those as well. This will help make sure that these files also get moved to the new computer. Note that some special items may not work on the new system. Thus, you should discuss your needs with your liaison, preferably before placing your system order.
  
  
• Security: The College provides insurance coverage on the computer and, at the request of the faculty member, anti-theft cables to secure the computer to a desk. The system is listed as being housed in the faculty member's office, and it is assumed that the desktop systems will remain there. Laptops may, of course, be used both in and out of the office. Additional anti-theft cables designed specifically for laptops can be ordered through ACC or purchased at computing stores.

  Faculty members are encouraged to use particular care in locking their offices. In the event that the faculty member does not choose to install anti-theft cables, he or she will be responsible for the $500 deductible should a loss occur. The faculty member is also responsible for the $500 deductible whenever the computer is off-campus.

As you upgrade computers, some of your older programs may not be compatible with your new system. Microsoft Office, Eudora and Netscape will come with your new computer. Other software programs may or may not work on your new system. Talk to your liaison about any specific software questions you may have.

If you have any further questions, please contact your liaison in the Academic Computing Center.

Good luck with your new computer!