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When can I send email? What is their email address?
A: Fourth-class cadets can begin using their email accounts at the beginning of the academic year. It is best to have them send you an email first to verify their email name and provide an indication that the account is active.
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Can I purchase other software for them to use?
A: Yes, in fact, it is a great gift. Software can be purchased from any source. Be sure the software will run under Windows XP Professional. Software you purchase should not detract from their studies, nor violate the Academy's Acceptable Use Policy.
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Can they keep and use their AOL or other ISP account?
A: Yes, but while they are here at the Academy, we require them to use their Academy-issued email account for official email/business. While away from the Academy, they are able to access their email via Microsoft Outlook Web Access (OWA).
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Can I buy other computer equipment? Do I have to buy it from the Academy Bookstore?
A: The bookstore offers educational discounts, but you can buy equipment from any other source. Anything not included in the standard issue will have to be serviced/repaired by an outside vendor and paid for with the cadet's own funds. All software and hardware must not violate the Academy's Accepatable Use Policy.
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Can they upgrade their computer?
A: Yes. More memory can be purchased, or a larger hard drive, etc. The cadet is responsible for funding these purchases and for installation costs through a local vendor to not void their computer's warranty. A Computer Selection Committee has determined that the standard issue computer will be suitable for cadets for the next two years and that they will not need to purchase anything additional. The committee will continue to survey technologies and curriculum requirements to develop a recommendation for future computing needs.
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Can they also have a desktop computer?
A: No. Only their standard-issued computer is allowed on our network.
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Can they play music CDs and movies on DVD?
A: Cadet regulations prohibit fourth-class cadets from playing music CDs or DVDs in the cadet barracks. Due to bandwidth limitations, cadets are not permitted to download music files, MP3 or radio access over the Internet.
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Do they have video conferencing capability?
A: Certain conference and training rooms around the Academy are set up for video teleconferencing and made available to cadets who may be working on a special academic project.
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Can they have printers in their rooms?
A: Yes they can, but remember that their rooms are relatively small; we recommend that the size of the printer be checked before purchase. Printers are available in cadet computer rooms, dayrooms, the Library, laboratories and classrooms. Printers are convenient to have in their rooms, but NOT a necessity.
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What would be a good thing for me to buy them that they can use with their computer?
A: A printer (see question above) and consummables, such as paper, ink or toner. Some students prefer to add peripherals as needs arise.
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Why do they have to buy a laptop?
A: Each year, information is gathered from representatives from each academic department, the Commandant of Cadets Division and the Information Services Division. Many issues, including whether or not to recommend a desktop or portable computer, are discussed. Laptops are used in many of their classes and professional development programs.
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What type of insurance should I get?
A: Cadets have personal insurance coverage. The computer typically comes with a four-year warranty. In the event a computer is damaged and not covered under warranty, cadets will use their personal insurance plans to cover replacement or repair costs.
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Can they use chat programs?
A: Yes, but only text-based programs. Voice- or video-based chats are prohibited under our Acceptable Use Policy due to bandwidth constraints.
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