VCU Bioinformatics and Bioengineering Summer Institute
Virginia Commonwealth University
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Should you bring a computer?

The short answer is yes. VCU requires of its students that they come with their own computer. As a result, there's not much in the way of public computer facilities here. Gladding Residential Center does have a computer lab for residents, but don't count on it. However, each room has fast ethernet connections, one for each inhabitant.

Research simulations will take place in a room where each participant will have a computer (a PC). It may be somewhat more convenient if the computer you bring is also a PC, but you should be able to survive nicely with a Mac, if that's your choice.

It is important that the computer you bring has a network interface card (also called a network adapter or Ethernet card). VCU requires a 10Base-T Ethernet adapter; a 10/100 Ethernet adapter would be preferred. You will need to have a 10Base-T Ethernet cable with RJ-45 connectors. These cables often are not included with new systems, so be sure to ask for one. VCU recommends a 30-foot length cable.

Wireless access is available in luxurious Gladding Apartments and many places on campus, but the system is highly paranoid, and you might be unable to reach some of your favorite sites.

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