Computers and Software

Accessing Lab Programs and Software from Home

You can access resources in two ways:

1. Mechanical Engineering Department Terminal Server for Remote Access (cengwts.calpoly.edu)

We have set up a terminal server for Remote Access so you can use our lab programs from anywhere 24/7.

2. Campus ITS Virtual Computer Labs

Virtual Computer Labs enables the Cal Poly community to access
academic software previously only available in on-campus labs using a web browser.

Access and Instructions

Additionally, if the program you need isn't available on the two above platforms, check below for other ways to get what you need.

Software and Programs

Design Safe

Risk Assessment overview video- https://www.youtube.com/embed/FpvZvs91szA
DesignSafe overview video - https://www.youtube.com/embed/8PJBpVnpDfA
DesignSafe walkthrough video - https://www.youtube.com/embed/eTOvzEqhBKI
Instructions for student installation:
DesignSafe has granted Cal Poly free licenses for students, but does not allow site licenses. Please use the instructions below to install DesignSafe on your own PC:
- Download and install the DesignSafe software on your own laptop from this website:
  - www.corvusdev.com/dse/designsafe/release
  - Username: ds8download
  - Password: safety1
- Once the software is installed you will go through the license activation process.
  - Follow this link for a video on how this process is done: https://youtu.be/otEd5nQzsVA
- In the license activation request make sure you type "STUDENT" in the “Comments” window at the bottom of the form.

Engineering Equation Software (EES)

You have 2 options:
1. Run using our virtual labs: cengwts.calpoly.edu.
2. Run locally: Instructions for setup (PDF)

Mathcad

Website: Free Mathcad ProE Creo

Matlab

Available using Cal Poly ITS Virtual Computer Labs
Or you can install using these steps:
- Visit your portal: my.calpoly.edu
- Choose Technical Service Requests on the left-hand menu
- Choose Software
- Choose New

Microsoft Windows

To install:
- Visit Cal Poly's on the hub
- Log in using your Cal Poly credentials using the link in the upper right-hand corner
- Choose the Windows version of your choice
- Follow instructions as prompted

National Instruments

Website: Free National Instruments LabVIEW Download

SolidWorks

Available using Cal Poly ITS Virtual Computer Labs
Or you can install using these steps:
- Visit your portal: my.calpoly.edu
- Choose Technical Service Requests on the left-hand menu
- Choose Software
- Choose New
- Search Solidworks

Terminal Servers for Remote Access (cengwts.calpoly.edu)

You have to set up terminal servers for Remote Access so you can use lab programs from anywhere 24/7. View our guide for more information.

VMWare

To install:
- Visit Cal Poly's on the hub
- Log in using your Cal Poly credentials using the link in the upper right-hand corner
- Choose the software of your choice

Computers

Accessing department computers

Labs have been temporarily closed due to COVID-19.

What kind of computer should I buy?

We do not we recommend any particular brand. We recommend a Windows PC with Windows 10 professional, i7 or equivalent processor, 16Gb ram, 500Gb SSD, and web cam. For a list of certified graphics cards for Solidworks, visit the Solidworks website.

DELL provides a student discount on the Cal Poly Dell website and Hewlett Packard provides discounts on their website.

Hardware

Get your very own Woofer Tester 2 for only $125 regularly $159 from www.woofertester.com. To order, contact Larry Coolidge.

Financial Support

If you are experiencing financial hardship and are unable to afford the technology you need to be academically successful, you can apply for Cal Poly Cares | Basic Needs Initiative for assistance. Cal Poly Cares is available to any Cal Poly student, including students who are not federal Title IV eligible such as international and undocumented students.

Cal Poly is committed to creating an environment for all students to reach their full potential and thrive.

Mechanical Engineering

College of Engineering