Using VCAT


This article demonstrates how to navigate and use VCAT.

VCAT (Virtual Computing Access Technology) is a virtual computing system for students and faculty that is accessible from anywhere with a broadband internet connection. You will find software installed in all Tech Zone physical computer labs, as well as applications provided by academic departments. 

Access & Navigate App Store

This panel shares instructions on logging in and accessing the VCAT app store. 

Instructions

  1. Log in to VCAT. 

    VCAT Login

  2. Select Log In, then enter your NetID and password.

  3. The first time you log in with your NetID and password, the VCAT App Store may take longer to launch as your profile is being created. 

Navigating the VCAT App Store:

The App Store is where you access all the applications and desktops available to you via VCAT.

For each application or desktop, you will see the name of the application, the application type, and a “launch” button. 

App Store

Type of Application:

  • Streamed App: These apps are installed on a server in the cloud and “streamed” to your local computer through a web browser.
Sort and Search App Store

Alphabetically

When you log into VCAT for the first time, apps are sorted alphabetically by default. For subsequent logins, apps will be sorted based on frequency of use. To sort alphabetically, click Sort Alphabetically found in the top right.

 

Sort

Most Used

After your first login, apps are sorted by frequency of use by default. The most-used apps appear first. You may also click Sort Most Used to sort by frequency.

Search for an Application:

When you search for an application, the system reads the word(s) in your search term as a string of characters (rather than as separate words), and searches for occurrences of the text string anywhere in the application name or the publisher name.

For example, the search term “le” would include the results “Blender,” and “Mendeley Desktop.”

Search

Instructions

  1. Enter your search term in the Search box and press Enter.
  2. The App Store will refresh, displaying only applications that match your search.
  3. Click the App Store icon to clear the search and return to the full App Store.
Launch and Log Out of App Store

Launch Apps or Desktops

To launch an App or Desktop:

  1. Locate the app or desktop you want to launch.
  2. Click the Launch button next to its icon.


Launch App

Disconnect from App

  1. Click on the Windows Start icon in the bottom left
  2. Select the power button
  3. Select Disconnect

Disconnect App

Log out of the App Store:

To prevent unauthorized access, you must log out of the VCAT App Store when finished with your session.

  1. Click on your email drop down found in the top right
  2. Select LOGOUT. You will be returned to the login screen.

Log out

Save your Work

Files you save to your Desktop, Documents, or U: drive will stay on VCAT for up to a year after your last use. Using Cloud storage is convenient to save your work in VCAT automatically.

You can also transfer files manually using the File Upload and File Download buttons located at the top. 

 

Instructions

  1. Log in to VCAT.
  2. Launch your application.
    • If your virtual application opens at launch, minimize it to see the virtual desktop.
  3. Locate and open the Cloud Mounter application on the virtual desktop.
    • Choose Existing Connections to save your work with an account if you have previously connected one.
  4. The University provides the following Cloud Storage Options to students, faculty, and staff.

  5. Name your drive storage.
  6. Click Connect Now.


  7. Enter your UA email address.
  8. Enter your NetID, password, and NetID+.
  9. Apporto (VCAT) will ask for permission to access your account. Select Continue.

  10. Once your account is added, you can find it in File Explorer. 
  11. Select This PC > Network Drive.