Do I Need a Network Adapter?
Yes! To access Resnet or Orchard Downs internet, you need to have a 10baseT compatible network adapter (also known as a network card). A network adapter is a device that allows your computer to connect to a computer network, much like the modem you may use when you are at home. Unlike a modem, which uses phone lines, Resnet & OD inaternet are high-speed networks which uses different cabling and equipment. Reminder: Wireless internet is not allowed in residence hall rooms with the exception of Orchard Downs.
To determine whether or not you have a network adapter installed in your computer, look for a connection on the back of your computer that looks like the one in the red box in the picture to the right. The connection is larger than a phone or modem connection (outlined in blue in the picture to the right for comparison), and will often be marked with an icon that looks like computers connected together. If you do have one of these connections, you should be ready to connect to the internet.
If your computer does not already have a network adapter, you will need to purchase one before being able to connect to the internet. 10baseT network adapters are available at many computer retailers, and basic ones usually do not cost more than $30. Some retailers and manufacturers will install the new card for you as well, though they may charge for this service. Housing computer services staff do not install network adapters.
WARNING: (For all non-Orchard Downs residents) When purchasing a network adapter, make sure that it supports 10baseT connections. URHnet runs at 10 Mbps half-duplex, and adapters that do not support 10baseT will not work on Resnet.
Purchasing a Network Adapter for a Desktop Computer
There are four main types of network adapters for use with desktop machines: Integrated, PCI, ISA, and USB.
Integrated network adapter
Integrated network adapters are attached directly to your computer's motherboard. These adapters are becoming more and more common, so if you have a newer computer, it is likely that you have one of this type of adapter. If you have an integrated network adapter (see above for instructions on finding it) you do not need to purchase an additional adapter to use Resnet or Orchard Downs Internet.
PCI network adapter
PCI expansion slot
PCI network adapters are the most common type of network adapter you will find available for sale. This type of adapter comes on a card that needs to be installed inside your computer. Almost all computers contain PCI expansion slots. To determine if your computer can support a PCI-based network adapter, open the computer case and look for a series of slots on the large circuit board you see there (motherboard). PCI slots are usually white in color, though some motherboard companies will use different colors. PCI slots are shorter in length than ISA slots (see images).
USB network adapter
USB network adapters, unlike PCI and ISA network adapters, are external and do not need to be installed inside your computer. Instead, they connect to a USB port on your computer (a small rectangular connection approximately 1 cm long). Generally, all new computers come with USB ports.
Purchasing a Network Adapter for a Laptop Computer
There are three main types of network adapters for use with laptop machines: Integrated, PCMCIA, and USB.
Integrated network adapter
Integrated network adapters are attached directly to your computer's motherboard, and there will be a network port somewhere on your laptop case. These adapters are becoming more and more common, so if you have a newer laptop, it is likely that you have an integrated adapter. If you use a docking station, there may be a network connection on it, as well. If you have an integrated network adapter (see above for instructions on finding it) you do not need to purchase an additional adapter to use the internet.
PCMCIA network adapter
PCMCIA network adapters come on small cards approximately the same size as a credit card. They fit into a slot on the side of your laptop. PCMCIA network adapters sometimes have an additional part, known as a "dongle" that connects to the card, and then the network cable connects to the dongle. The adapter shown here does not have a dongle.
USB network adapter
USB network adapters will work for laptop computers as well as desktop machines, as long as your laptop has a USB connection. Most newer laptops have at least one of these connections. The adapter will plug into the USB port, a rectangular slot a little more than a centimeter long, and will have a port on the other end to plug the network cable into.
Installing a Network Adapter
Due to the varied types, brands, and models of network adapters available, we cannot provide detailed instructions for installing your particular network adapter. However, the manufacturer can, and we suggest following their instructions when installing your network adapter. The process is not difficult, and should not take more than a few minutes.