Program Basics
What is the Laptop Loaner Program?
- The Laptop Loaner Program provides laptops to students who do not have access to a laptop, ensuring that they can fully participate in online and hybrid courses.
Who is eligible to borrow a laptop?
Is there a cost or deposit required?
- No. No cost or deposit is required. However, students are responsible for the full replacement cost if the laptop is lost, stolen, or not returned.
How Do I Borrow a Laptop?
What is the process for borrowing a laptop?
- Laptops are loaned on a first-come-first-serve basis. Stop by the SOS Center in Holton Hall or email the SOS Center at collegesuccess@mecc.edu for more information.
Where do I pick up the laptop?
- The SOS Center is located in Holton Hall and is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM.
What should I bring?
- Bring your student ID when picking up the laptop.
Loan Details
How long can I use the laptop?
- Laptops are loaned for the current semester only. They must be returned at the end of the semester for routine maintenance.
What happens if the laptop or accessories are lost or damaged?
- Notify the SOS Center immediately for further instructions.
Laptop Information
What type of laptops are available?
- We provide HP ProBooks with Windows installed.
What software is included?
- Each laptop comes with:
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Respondus LockDown Browser
- TeamViewer
How do I access Respondus LockDown Browser for a test?
- Students need to open Respondus LockDown Browser before starting the test. They can find it on their desktop or by searching for “LockDown Browser” in the search bar at the bottom of the screen.
- After opening LockDown Browser, select the Canvas option in the drop-down box.
- Log into MyMECC and navigate to the specific test.
Do I need to download Respondus LockDown Browser?
- No. Respondus LockDown Browser is already installed on every loaner laptop, so there should never be a need to download it.
What if my Respondus LockDown Browser needs to be updated?
Can I install my own software?
- No. Students cannot install their own software. If your instructor requires additional software, please contact the Help Desk by submitting a ticket.
Will it connect to Wi-Fi at home and on campus?
- Yes. The laptops are configured to connect easily. If you have issues, reach out to the Help Desk for assistance.
Support & Troubleshooting
Who do I contact if the laptop does not work?
Can I exchange the laptop if it stops working?
- Yes. Please contact the SOS Center for assistance.
Do I need to allow updates to run on the laptop?
- Yes. Please allow the laptop to install Windows and software updates when prompted. Updates are important for security and can also fix common performance or connection issues. If you run into problems with updates or are not sure what to do, contact the Help Desk for assistance.
Returns
When and where do I return the laptop and accessories?
- All laptops and accessories are due back to the SOS Center in Holton Hall by 4pm on the last day of exams for the current semester.
What condition should it be in?
- Important: Save and back up all personal files before returning
Return the laptop, charger, and bag together.
- Ensure the laptop is in good condition
Will I get a reminder before the due date?
- Yes. The SOS Center will send several reminder emails to the student’s school email account (@email.vccs.edu) near the end of the semester.
Additional Information
Can I keep files saved on the laptop?
- Yes, but make sure to back up and remove your files before returning the laptop. We recommend using OneDrive or Google Drive. The SOS Center has flash drives available upon request.
Does the program include accessories?
- The program provides a laptop, charger, and carrying case. The SOS Center has other accessories available upon request.
Are laptops available during breaks or summer?
- Laptops are loaned for the current semester only (Fall, Spring, Summer). They must be returned at the end of the semester for routine maintenance.