Center offers Internet, e-mail access

Computer center visitors enjoy free access to the Internet.

The Port Aransas Computer Center has made a number of major changes over the past two years.

Thanks to a number of local businesses and the help of the Weir Foundation, 15 older computers have been replaced with new Dell machines with upgraded memory and faster processors. Laptop connections have been increased in number and are available for those who prefer to bring their own laptops in and use the center's network for printing or for Internet connections.

Last spring, volunteers replaced all the old front room furniture with new computer tables set at a comfortable height. They also replaced many of the recycled chairs with new, more comfortable ones, allowing expansion of the laptop-user space available and more than doubling the number of laptop users the center can accommodate.

Software has also been upgraded, although much of what was done in this area is "behind the scenes," improving usability but not visible to the user.

The center is also making more of the behind the scenes changes including moving its home page to our own server. The center is starting to add Vista and by late fall will have several Vista machines.

New equipment from Cisco has been installed to improve wireless reception and the wi-fi network is available around the clock in the parking lot.

Two scanners are available as well as CD and DVD writers ("burners"). The center uses a networked Dell laser printer able to handle all user needs.

The center continues to be all volunteer operated and as a 501(c)3 organization is completely donation supported. All donations go to buying equipment, supplies and Internet service.

Bring in printer ink cartridges, laser cartridges and old cell phones. The center has a recycling program, and these bring in cash that helps with the center's operating expenses.

The center plans to be open regular hours—Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Hours may, however, vary depending on volunteer availability.

As always, the center needs volunteers - and you don't have to be a computer guru to help. Just stop by the center at 430 N. Alister St. and fill out a volunteer form or call 749-4011 and leave a message for Lyndon Holcomb, the volunteer coordinator.

Volunteers have personal accounts that allow them to download programs and do other things that regular patrons can't do.