Computer Lab Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the open computer lab located?

The open computer lab is located at the Lakewood Campus in building 15, room 104.  The computer specialists may be reached at (253) 589-5820 or email libtech@cptc.edu.

What are the hours of the open computer lab?

Monday – Friday, 7:30am – 4:30pm

The computer lab is not open during weekends, holidays, or all faculty/staff in-service days.

How many computers are available in the open lab?

There are 38 PCs, two (2) Macs, and one (1) PC ADA compliant station. 

Who can use the open computer lab?

Currently registered students (priority users) and staff are welcome to use the computers in the open Computer Lab (room 104).  Public users are welcome to use the additional computers in the Library.

What software is available on the computers?

The open lab computers have Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, etc), Adobe Reader, Respondus Lockdown Browser, and Chrome, Firefox and Edge web browsers.  Some computers also have course-specific software.  Please contact the lab staff if you have questions about course software. 

The ADA station is equipped with a sit/stand station and ergonomic chair.  Software installed on the ADA workstation includes ZoomText, Zoom Text Keyboard, Dragon speech to text software, Jaws 2020, ScanSnap printer, and Bierley Mono Mouse.

How do I sign-on to the computers in the lab?

Students will log-on to the computers in the lab using their last name + last four digits of the SID (student identification number) and O365 email password.

Can I save my work on the lab computers?

It is highly recommended that all computer lab users bring a USB flash drive to save their work, or save their work to the cloud (e.g., OneDrive, Google Drive, or DropBox).

Can I schedule a proctored test?

The computer specialists do not proctor tests.  Please see your class instructor for a scheduled time and location to have your test proctored.

I need software X installed.  Can I install it, or can I have it installed?

Students do not have access to install software in the computer labs.  Requests for software installs should be submitted to you program faculty.  Depending on the number of requests and site licenses available, the request may or may not be approved.

Can the computer specialist fix my computer/laptop?

CPTC staff members cannot work on the personal devices of students, staff, faculty, or visitors.

Can I schedule an appointment with the computer specialists for one-on-one assistance?

Yes. The computer specialists are available to assist students with their needs by appointment.  Contact us at (253) 589-5820 or email libtech@cptc.edu to arrange an appointment.

Can the computer specialists tutor me on basic computer skills?

The Computer Lab staff can offer help with navigating software necessary for your coursework at CPTC.  For basic computer skills help, students can visit the Tutoring Center in Building 15.  In addition, CPTC offers courses for students who wish to increase their computer skills.  Your faculty advisor can help you to get information and register for those courses.

Can I get help registering for classes?

The computer specialists can help students navigate the online course registration process, but they cannot help students choose classes or make other program decisions.  Enrollment Services staff and Faculty Advisors can provide more in-depth help with course and program decisions.

Can I get help completing my FAFSA application?

You are welcome to complete your FAFSA application in the Computer Lab.  However, computer specialists cannot help with the application process. All financial aid related questions should be directed to the Student Aid and Scholarship office located in building 17.

Can I get help with my homework in the computer lab?

The computer specialists are available to assist you with hardware/software programs and to answer general application questions. If you are struggling with course content, the Tutoring Center has tutors available for many courses and program areas.  The Tutoring Center is located in building 15, room 113K.

Can I get help with Microsoft Office applications?

Yes.  The computer specialists are available to assist students with MS Office applications.

Can someone proofread my essay in the computer lab?

The Tutoring Center has peer and staff tutors that can assist students with course work.

Can someone help me with research and citing sources?

The college librarians can assist with research, APA, and MLA formatting.  The Tutoring Center is also available to assist.

Does the computer lab have headphones and/or webcams available?

Plug-and-play headphones and webcams are available for checkout at the main Library Circulation desk.

I left my USB flash drive (jump drive) in the computer lab.  Is there a lost and found?

Items left in the computer lab are stored in the Security office.  The Security office is located in building 12.

Who can help me with creating a resume?

Please schedule an appointment in the Advising office (253) 589-5548 to meet with a career advisor.  It is highly recommended that you bring a draft of your resume to the appointment.

As a student, do I have free access to Microsoft Office for my personal devices?

Yes.  Students have access to MS Office applications through their O365 account via browser only.