Frequently asked questions
Here are answers to a few questions you might have while installing or using Scheduler. If your question isn't answered here, please stop by the forums.
Where is RPI Scheduler?
RPI scheduler is available at www.rpischeduler.com.
University Scheduler is a scheduler program based on RPI Scheduler, but for any school.
What are "extra" courses?
If you don't know what courses you want to take, University Scheduler allows you to view schedules which include any of the courses you mark as Extra. It works like this:
- The Scheduler will find all schedules with the required (non-Extra) courses you selected.
- The Scheduler will try adding each Extra course to those schedules. If the course fits, this schedule will be added to your list of possible schedules.
- The final list of possible schedules will contain
- all schedules containing required courses only, and
- all schedules with every combination of extra courses.
What do all these warning messages mean?
University Scheduler is based on the Java Platform, which provides a secure way to download and install programs. The warning messages you see when first installing the Scheduler are a result of security precautions that Java takes when installing new software, to protect your computer from viruses and worms.
You should read each warning dialog carefully, and press "Yes" for each one to install the Scheduler.
Who is Keith Lea, and why do I need to trust him?
When you start the Scheduler, you may be asked to trust Keith Lea's digital signature before running the program.
Keith Lea is a senior at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He is the lead developer of University Scheduler and the maintainer of this website. For more information about Keith, you can visit his website.
The Java Platform asks you if you want to trust Keith because he has digitally signed the Scheduler program. Java requires that almost all applications must be digitally signed, and when you use a Java-based program, Java makes sure that you trust that program to be run on your computer. This is a safety precaution that Java provides to prevent viruses and worms from attacking your computer.
I use Norton Firewall. How can I get the Scheduler to work?
If you use Norton Firewall and you can't get the Scheduler to run, you should try disabling the firewall, and try running the Scheduler again.
I found the schedule I want. Now what?
The University Scheduler will not actually sign you up for courses. You must do this yourself through your school's registration website or your advisor.
What happened to Satyanash Scheduler?
RPI Scheduler used to be called Satyanash Scheduler. The Scheduler was renamed mainly because most people couldn't pronounce or remember the word "Satyanash."
University Scheduler evolved from RPI Scheduler as a general purpose course scheduler.