Babson Virtual Lab
The Babson Virtual Lab was conceived to provide access to specialized applications that were previously available only in one of the Horn computer labs without having to go to a lab. By simply browsing to the virtual lab web site and installing the Softgrid client software, these applications can be run on your own computer.
Software titles currently available in the Babson Virtual Lab include:
- Adobe Photoshop Elements 3.0
- Adobe Photoshop CS2
- Adobe Illustrator CS2
- Macromedia Dreamweaver MX Studio
- DIA Flowcharting/Drawing Software
- GanttProject Project Management Software
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I use the Virtual Lab?
Before you can use the Virtual Lab, you will need to install the Softgrid client software (see the link below). Once you have installed the Softgrid client, simply browse to http://virtuallab.babson.edu and login with your Babson username and password. To run an application, just click on the icon to launch it. The first time you launch an application will take a couple of minutes as the application is downloaded to your computer. Subsequent uses will start up at normal speed.
How do I install the Softgrid client software?
You can install the Softgrid client software by clicking here and clicking Run.
How many users can connect to each application?
The Virtual Lab operates on a concurrent usage model. Therefore, each application has a limit to how many people can connect at one time. If you can't get at an application, try again later. If you continue to have problems running an application, please contact the IT Service Center. We will monitor the number of people using an application at one time, and will adjust license numbers as appropriate.
Does the Virtual Lab work from off campus?
Currently the Virtual Lab is only available from on-campus.
How does the Virtual Lab work?
The Virtual Lab is based on the Softgrid application virtualization technolgy from Softricity. In essence, Softgrid creates an environment on a computer in which applications run, without actually being installed on the local computer. The client software on your machine will talk to the Softgrid server, and allow you to run the application on your own machine. If you are interested in more information on the Softgrid technology, you can look at Softricity's website at http://www.softricity.com.
