ETIS computer labs

General Computer Lab

Students in the Faculty of Environment have access to a wide variety of computing facilities and software. For a detailed list of what software is installed in what lab, consult our software list.

Note: All labs are closed at the end of each term for approximately one week when the computers are re-configured for the upcoming term.

Computer Lab Usage Tips

Installing software on lab computers

Students do not have permission to install software on computers in any of our labs. Any software you need should already be installed. Consult the software list to see what software is installed in the various labs.

Storing files at lab computers

  1. Double-check that you are signed into the OneDrive app.
    OneDrive icon on system tray
  2. Save files to your OneDrive folder: C:\Users\<your_username>\OneDrive - University of Waterloo

    • Note: Replace "<your_username>" with your actual WatIAM username. For example, if your WatIAM username is "jdoe" then use C:\Users\jdoe\OneDrive - University of Waterloo

  3. Before you sign out, check to see if your OneDrive has fully synced. Refer to Microsoft's documentation for more information.
  4. For complex projects involving many files, the following tips may help:
    • Set the project folder you are working on to "Always keep on this device". When you are done working, set it to "Free up space".
    • To temporarily improve performance, click on the OneDrive app in the system tray and pause syncing. Before you sign out, resume syncing and ensure that your OneDrive is fully synced.
    • You can temporarily use local folder on the computers (e.g., C:\Users\<your_username>\Downloads on Windows). Before signing out, back up your files to a USB drive and/or your OneDrive.

Using the lab projectors

Helping students using the teaching labs (for TAs and professors)