Citrix Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: This computer doesn’t have a diskette drive! How can I use a diskette for transferring digital pictures or documents?
A: Each school will be provided a few USB external diskette drives. If you need to use one, you can check it out from the librarian.
Q: This computer doesn’t have a CD drive! How can I use the curriculum CDs that come with my textbooks?
A: Curriculum CDs will be loaded on an application server, so many teachers can access the information from any computer.
Q: What will installing the Citrix client do to my home computer?
A: The client installation is very easy to do, and takes about 15MB of space on your home computer. It will not affect your other computer applications.
Q: Is it safe to use my home computer to transmit or access confidential data through the Internet? Is student data secure across the Internet connection, if I open my gradebook from home?
A: Citrix uses Citrix Secure Gateway using SSL (Secure Socket Layer), which provides a secure Internet gateway between the Citrix servers at Curtis Middle School and your home computer running Citrix web client. All data passing across the Internet between your home computer and the Citrix servers at Curtis is encrypted, ensuring privacy and integrity of information flow. SSL uses 128-bit data encryption. SSL was developed after the September 11, 2001, World Trade Center tragedy. Many banking and financial institution employees had to work from home, using Citrix, until new office facilities could be obtained. SSL protected the financial transaction data these employees needed to transmit.
Q: If I am using Citrix at home and click Print, which printer does it print out on?
A: If you have a printer directly attached to your home computer, it will print out there. Otherwise, it will print on the default printer for your school, usually in a computer lab or library. You can choose any networked printer at your school to print to.
Q: Can I change the way my Citrix thin client display looks? I like the scenic backgrounds and desktop themes.
A: No, you cannot personalize the display of your thin client. These settings are standardized on the Citrix servers at Curtis. All Citrix users get the same settings.
Q: I want to add the Weather Bug, Gator, or Instant Messenger to my Citrix thin client computer. Can I do that?
A: No, you cannot add any of these programs to your thin client computer. Citrix is designed to deliver all the programs you need to do your job as a teacher. Weather Bug, Gator, and Instant Messenger programs are not essential to performing your job as a teacher. If you have a program you feel is necessary to use as a teacher, contact your Campus Technician with your request. They will forward your request to the Technology Department for consideration, in coordination AISD Administration. Every effort will be made to supply all necessary programs.
Q: Can I connect my classroom printer to the Citrix thin client computer?
A: Yes, you can connect a local classroom printer directly to your Citrix thin client computer. Please let your Campus Technician know that you want to do this, so the correct printer drivers can be added to your thin client.
Q: Can students use the Citrix thin client computer?
A: No, students may not use the Citrix thin client computer. This computer is intended for teacher use only. Student logins will not work on Citrix.
Q: Can I move my Citrix thin client computer to another location in my room?
A: Yes, you can place the thin client anywhere you want in your classroom, as long as you have access to electrical outlets and a network drop (or wireless access).
Q: If I move from one classroom to another, do I take my Citrix thin client computer to my new room?
A: All thin client computers are configured the same, and are not to be moved from room to room. They are part of the room equipment, like the overhead projector and screen. Citrix thin clients are not portable.
Q: My Citrix thin client is not working! Grades are due, what do I do?
A: Notify your Campus Technician immediately if there is a problem with your thin client computer. A replacement thin client can be set up quickly. Since all information is stored on the server, none of your files will be lost.
Q: How do I clean the thin monitor attached to my Citrix thin client computer?
A: The monitor screen has a semi-flexible surface over a glass screen. Clean only with a soft dry cloth, using light pressure. Pushing too hard on the screen can break the glass. Do not use Windex, 409, or any glass cleaner. Do not use a paper towel.
Q: Can I attach my Palm Pilot cradle to the Citrix thin client computer?
A: No, you can’t attach a Palm cradle to the thin client. You can, however, use one of the student workstations in your classroom to synch your Palm. You will need assistance installing the Palm software to your H: drive. Please contact your Campus Technician or put it on the Help Desk.
Q: I have a USB smart drive or flash memory card. Can I use that with the Citrix thin client?
A: Yes, most types of USB memory cards are compatible with the thin client. Check with your Campus Technician if you have questions.