Sam Fox School IT only supports AV and Printing. However, we work with WashU IT and Student Technology Services to help in all situations.

Email ithelp@wustl.edu or call 314-933-3333 to submit questions or issues. A technology specialist will respond or direct you to the appropriate resource.


FAQ’s

I can’t log in to a lab computer.
  • We’ve simplified the process for logging into Sam Fox School lab computers. You no longer need an account to log in. 
  • Each lab computer has a “Student” login (Apple and Windows) which does not require a password.
  • Simply click on the Student account and you’ll be logged into the computer. You will still need to log into your own Papercut account to access printing. Just make sure to log out when you’re done with your session.
  • Since the account is shared, lab computers are NOT an appropriate/reliable place to store/save files.
My document didn’t print, but my PaperCut account was charged.
  • If a document fails to print and your PaperCut account is charged, please file a refund request at Help Desk.
  • Copy and paste details of the print job into the email to expedite your refund. Review refund guide at this link.
  • Please Note: NO REFUNDS will be given for money in PaperCut accounts after you leave the University. There are no exceptions to this rule. 
  • Please make sure you use your available PaperCut account balance before you graduate or leave the University. As long as you are an active student, you may leave money in your account between semesters and from year to year.
My computer is giving me error messages. Where can I have it repaired?
  • The Sam Fox School IT Department will gladly take a quick look at the issue and see if there is a quick solution.

  • For more involved repairs, you will be referred to STS (Student Technology Services). If your computer or mobile device is under warranty, you should consult the manufacturer for qualified repair facilities in the area.

  • Sam Fox School IT Department staff can also direct you to a qualified repair center in the St. Louis area.

I can’t connect to the Internet.
  • If you are plugged into an Ethernet jack, make sure the connections are firm.
  • If you are connected to the wireless network via WiFi, please make sure you are connected to “wustl-encrypted-2.0” and use your WUSTL Key.
Can I work in the Whitaker Lab?
  • Yes! We are always looking for qualified TAs to work in the lab. Applicants should have some computer knowledge and good customer service skills.
  • If you are interested in working at the lab, please contact The Whitaker Lab manager.
What’s the best way to take care of my laptop?
  • Care and protection of your laptop against theft or damage is the personal responsibility of the laptop owner.
  • Insurance can replace a computer, but it does not protect it against theft or damage and cannot replace lost files. 
  • To fully protect your work, back up your data frequently. 
  • Please use common sense when on campus or out in public.

Some helpful suggestions and reminders:

  • Do not leave your laptop unattended in a classroom.
  • Do not leave your laptop bag in unattended cars, or transport it in a flashy bag that invites theft.
  • Always lock your computer down with a security cable whenever possible.
  • Along with your laptop, be aware of the accessories that come with it. Your power supply and battery are costly and are the most commonly stolen items.

To protect against damage, we recommend:

  • Always transport your laptop in a protective sleeve or laptop bag.
  • Use a surge protector between your computer (laptop or desktop) and the electrical outlet. The electronics in a computer are sensitive and can easily be damaged by even a small electrical surge. Ask your vendor to recommend a reliable surge protector.
  • Please be aware of cords and cables attached to your laptop. These can cause a tripping hazard that could potentially pull your laptop off of a table.
How do I check the cost of printing for each printer?
  1. Log into your PaperCut account.
  2. Select “Rates” from the left navigation menu.
  3. Roll over “Details” on the right side of the chart to see the rates.

Standard plotting rates are also posted in the Whitaker Lab. If the rates are not posted, email the Help Desk or ask a student monitor in the labs.

In some unique cases, a printer is designated for a specific program area and will be charged outside the PaperCut system.

Please check with your area faculty at orientation for these discipline-specific printers as there are a few throughout the buildings.

Where are printers located?
  1. Log into your PaperCut account.
  2. Select “Rates” from the left navigation menu.
  3. Roll over the name of the printer on the left side of the chart of the chart. A pop up window will tell you generally where the printer is located.

The name of printer is based on its building location, the floor and sometimes if it is on the north or south location.

In some cases, the printer is within a building lab or a program area or studio. Look for the name of the printer posted near the printer.

Policies

Please make sure to familiarize yourself with the University’s Information Technology, Computers, and Internet Policies. The Sam Fox School works closely with colleagues across the University to ensure your IT needs are met. We ask that you comply with these policies to ensure safety and security in all technology areas.

Safety

Everyone in the Sam Fox School community should take measures to secure all valuable computer equipment and personal items. If you own a laptop computer,  always secure it to your desk with a laptop security device. If you own a desktop, similar measures should be taken.

Students should make sure all equipment is covered by their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. The University does not cover personal computer equipment against theft or damage.

Keep all studio doors locked and secure and never leave your equipment unattended or unsecured for any period of time. If a theft occurs, immediately notify Campus Police at 935-5555 and fill out a police report. This is often a necessary step in the process of filing a claim with your insurance company.