Facilities and Labs

Electronics Shop

Electronics Shop:
Instrument Maintenance Shop Division & Computer Division

The Electronics Shop is made up of two separate divisions -- the Instrument Maintenance Shop Division and the Computer Division.

Please see the information below regarding the proper protocols for requesting service between these two divisions.

Instrument Maintenance Shop Division

The Instrument Maintenance Shop Division is engaged in the design, construction, calibration, diagnosis, and repair of electronic and electromechanical laboratory equipment for the Chemistry Department and all of Virginia Tech, and the maintenance and repair of departmental analytical instrumentation such as NMR and mass spectrometers, chromatographs, pH meters, temperature baths, transformers, etc.

Ordering Work: ISR VIA HOKIEMART IS REQUIRED.  Services are rendered only after an Interdepartmental Service Request (ISR) has been processed.  Instructions for creating an ISR through HokieMart may be found here.  Items brought to the shop should be marked clearly with your name (and your professor's name, if applicable).

Computer Division

The Computer Division maintains the Chemistry Department’s computer network and computer systems, including servers and networked printers. Maintenance will include issues associated with computer hardware, software, and computer security.  

Ordering Work:  

1. PLEASE DO NOT SUBMIT AN ISR -- the Computer Division does not charge for labor.  (However, if new parts are needed, Computer Division staff will advise on ordering.)
2. Please download our Support Request form (PDF), fill it out digitally using Adobe Reader or Acrobat (you can type directly into the form and check the boxes by clicking them).  
3. Save your changes, then e-mail it to chemcomputerhelp@vt.edu  
4. Also print a copy and tape it to the machine.  
5. Drop the machine off to us in SURGE 103.  Alternatively, you can make arrangements with the stock room in Hahn to have it transported via the stockroom shuttle that now goes between Hahn, the Surge and the CRC.  If the system cannot be moved, or you have other special requirements, please contact us to make arrangements.  

At present, the Computer Division does not operate on a cost-recovery basis, so researchers do not need ISRs for labor; however, again, parts may need to be purchased (if so, Computer Division staff will advise).

Computer and Network Security:  One should be aware of Virginia Tech’s policies and standards associated with the use of personal computers (university and private) and the handling of sensitive data (social security and credit card number, student records, grades, etc.).  Links are available for you to learn more about how to keep your computer secure.

• Support Request form (PDF)
• VT CHEM Computer Security Statement (PDF)
• VT Acceptable Use Guidelines for Computers and Networks - (LINK)
• VT Computer Security Information (LINK)
• VT Information Technology Security Policies and Standards - (LINK)
• VT Computing General Info (LINK)
• VT Security and Viruses Page (LINK)
• VT Info on Unwanted Email (LINK)
• Microsoft Security Center (LINK)
• Microsoft TechNet (LINK)
• Apple Security Center (LINK)
• Security Mac, a private group devoted to Mac OS security (LINK)
• Identity Theft Information (LINK)
• VT CHEM Guide to PC Maintenance (PDF)