IT Support

What is available?
The standard issue PC of the university is a small Dell Desktop case with a not particularly performant CPU, on-board GPU and about 500GB disk space (NVMe).
Based on needs and availability, aspiring notebook users typically have the choice between Dell notebooks (13'', Ubuntu (LTS)) or Apple Macbook Air (13", MacOS). Precise specs may vary.

I was assigned a desktop PC but would rather have a notebook. Could that be arranged?
Our limited contingent does not allow us to equip everyone with notebooks, unfortunately. Despite this, we will try to accomodate relatable needs and personal preferences.

Why did I receive a used notebook?
Our hardware is expected to last for at least for 5 years, so on average notebooks are going to have more than one user per lifecycle. Roughly speaking you have as high as a 50:50 chance of being the first or the second user.

What are my responsibilities as a notebook user?
Since we cannot reliably administer notebooks remotely, you receive admin privileges for it. Despite the obvious advantages, you need to be extra careful. If the notebook gets compromised by malware it represents a threat to our whole network for which you would be legally accountable for. Therefore, you are expected to install any updates immediately, to set up a proper anti-virus protection, to be especially diligent when considering to install software, and to immediately respond to vulnerability warnings concerning your notebook.
Failure to comply may result in confiscation of the notebook.

Do I need to return the notebook when leaving the observatory?
Of course you need to. All items handed to you remain property of the university, including those purchased from external funds.
Also bear in mind that new colleagues rely on you returning those notebooks.

What is available?
Standard issue screens come with either 24'' or 27'' diagonal. For notebook users, there are variants with built-in hubs (Ethernet, USB-ports, charging capacity, additional screens). Further, a 4K resolution variant of the 27'' screens is available in very limited quantities.

May I have a second screen?
Due to limited contingents, we can only afford to issue either paired 24'' screens or single 27'' screens. Occasionally, we have older spare screens in stock that can be distributed outside of this rule.
Note for Macbook users: Macbooks with M1 chip are unable to operate more than a single external screen.

I inherited a desk with an icky keyboard / mouse. Could I get it replaced?
Sure, we will replace it immediately.

I am missing a cable / adapter to connect one of my devices. Could I get one?

I may have a broken cable...

What is available?
See printers.

How can I use the local printers?
PCs should already have a functioning printing interface at their disposal. If not, get in touch with IT support.
Notebooks with ethernet access should be able to find and configure printers via CUPS.

I need to print a poster. Where can I do that?
There are two options available:
1. The PHYSnet offers a web form to submit print jobs. Submissions will be confirmed by an e-mail detailing when and where the poster can be picked up.
2. The RRZ (regional computing center) maintains a poster plotter at their main facility (Schlüterstraße 70). Details can be found here.

I need to print flyers for an event. How can I do that?
This can be done through the KUS-Portal or RRZ services.

Can I get a tablet?

Can I get a work cell phone?

Some issue with office phones

What is available?

Assistance, Deadlines, Ownership

You do not need to bother with updates, network configuration, libraries, and such. If you need software or packages to be installed

I am used to another operating system or linux distro. Is it possible to get that instead of Ubuntu?
Desktop PCs and non-Apple notebooks come with an Ubuntu (LTS version) as operating system. Our servers and services are run by Ubuntu. For optimal interoperability our desktop machines rely on it, as well. Alternative operating systems such as Windows are only permitted for specific software requirements, e.g., the control unit for our radio telescope.
The same applies for linux distros. However, most of the time users simply prefer another desktop environment. Tell us which package you would rather use and we might be able to install it for you.