Technology

List of 11 frequently asked questions.

• What devices am I able to use at The Masters School?

  Any device, whether a laptop, tablet, eReader, or smartphone with wireless Internet connectivity can connect and use the “Masters” wireless network.

• Should I buy a Windows or an Apple device?

  The Masters School has and supports both Windows and Apple devices. If budget is a factor in your decision, or if you are considering using eBooks, Windows laptops generally tend to be less expensive for maintenance and replacement. The Masters School offers special discount pricing for hardware as well as software. Please contact our ServiceDesk at support@mastersny.org for more information.

• What computer and tablet models are recommended for students to use at Masters?

  Windows Tablet: The Microsoft Surface Pro is a great alternative to a basic laptop, as it provides touch functionality, has a full-featured desktop operating system, and costs less than a MacBook Pro.

  Windows Laptop: The 14in. Lenovo Thinkpad T480s. Larger display and slightly lighter than a MacBook Air, and is also customizable to your needs.

  Apple Laptop: The 13in. MacBook Air. Lightweight and fast, the MacBook Air is the best Mac option for the majority of computing tasks, like email, browsing the web, word processing, etc.

• Will The Masters School Technology Department provide support for students' personal devices?

  The Technology Department provides basic troubleshooting and triage for student laptops and devices which prevent the completion of academic work. Depending on the hardware model, the Technology Department can also assist with certified-hardware repairs for student laptops and devices.

• Does the school provide me with a copy of the Microsoft Office Suite for my personal laptop?

  The Masters School offers a significantly discounted price of $15 for purchasing legal copies of the Microsoft Office Suite for Windows and Apple computers. Purchasing the standalone version of the Office suite is recommended, although you may obtain a free subscription to Office 365 online through the school as well. For information on how to purchase Microsoft Office through Masters, please contact the Masters SeviceDesk at support@mastersny.org.

• What minimum specifications should my device have?

  If you are purchasing a new device or are thinking about upgrading your current device, the Technology Department recommends the following minimum specifications:

  
  Windows Laptops / Tablets 
  Operating System: Windows 10
  RAM / Memory: 8GB
  Hard Drive / Storage: 128GB Solid State Drive (SSD)
  Warranty: Manufacturer's 3-year onsite if available. Accidental damage protection is strongly recommended
  Software: Microsoft Office Suiteˠ & Antivirus
  
  

  Apple / Macintosh Laptops
  Operating System: macOS 10.12 (Sierra) or later
  RAM / Memory: 8GB
  Hard Drive / Storage: 128GB Solid State Drive (SSD)
  Warranty: Apple Limited Warranty* and AppleCare+** is strongly recommended
  Software: Microsoft Office Suiteˠ & Antivirus

• Is printing, copying and scanning available for students 

  on campus?

  Yes! The Pittsburgh Library and the Fonseca Center currently have enterprise multifunction copiers that can print, scan, and make copies. Students can submit print jobs to these copiers from any device on campus while connected to the “Masters” wireless network, and use their ID cards to release these jobs for printing at their convenience. The public computers in the library are configured to quickly print out documents and assignments. Printers are also available in our multimedia labs.

• Can students print to school printers from personal laptops?

  Yes. Students can print from any Windows, Apple, iOS, or Android device.

• Do students have access to color printers?

  Yes. Several color printers are available in the multimedia labs across campus.

• Can boarding students purchase a printer for their dorm room?

  Yes. Please keep in mind that students are not able to connect wireless printers to the “Masters” wireless network. Students will need a USB cable to connect any purchased printers to their personal computers.

• How do I contact the Masters ServiceDesk?

  Email ServiceDesk@MastersNY.org from a Masters email address, or support@mastersny.org from a non-Masters address.
  
  Need to borrow a computer or other technological equipment? Call, email, or stop by our office located in Morris Hall Room 106!