Surrounded by ample new computers, work stations and “comfy chairs,” CSU Dominguez Hills President Willie J. Hagan, Provost Ellen Junn, Vice President for Information Technology Chris Manriquez, and others were on hand Sept. 2 for the ribbon cutting ceremony that officially opened the new Toro Student Computer Lab in the University Library.
“The Division of Information Technology (IT) is pleased to open the new virtualized Toro Student Computing Lab,” said Manriquez during the ribbon cutting ceremony. “This collaborative effort of the University Library, IT, Academic Affairs, and Physical Plant is the latest technology service for students that both supports and enhances their classrooms and the co-curricular university experience.”
The lab features 150 new Dell thin client machines with larger monitors and much more power, and virtual computing that allows for faster imaging, less downtime, and is cost effective for the university. The new computer lab also offers eight American with Disabilities Act-compliant workstations, document printing, and a wide range of commonly used software.
“We work off of only one server now, so when we update that server, all the computers get updated at the same time, which is a lot more efficient,” said Michael Briones, a Help Desk student assistant who works in the computer lab, describing virtual computing. “A couple of the things that many students seem to love are the new 23-inch widescreen monitors, the more comfy chairs, more privacy between computer stations, and the speed of the computers. They’re running a lot faster than the older ones.”
Originally housed in Welch Hall Room 160, the Toro Student Computer Lab is now located on the first floor of the University Library in Room G-149.
According to Marci Payne, project management officer in the Division of Information Technology, work began on the new computer lab in July 2013. The technology, furniture and overall construction cost approximately $750,000.
Students who have used both the new and former Toro Student Computer Lab have really noticed the difference.
“I really like the new computer lab a lot better than the old one,” said Crystal Santa Cruz, a child development major. “It looks nice and the computers are faster and I like the bigger monitors. The staff here is also very helpful.”
To match the University Library’s hours of operation, the new Toro Student Computer Lab is open Monday-Thursday from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed Sunday.
For additional information or questions visit http://www4.csudh.edu/it/services/labs/index.
