CSU Online & Distance Learning
Frequently Asked Questions about Remote Access
General Problems With Remote Access
I'm at the authentication login screen. Why do I get one of these messages when I click the submit button?
- "Invalid PIN"
You entered your PIN incorrectly. Try entering the information again. If you receive the "Invalid PIN" message again, contact Access Services (970-491-1842 circadm@catalog.library.colostate.edu) using the email link or phone number provided on the screen where you input your PIN. They will delete your PIN and notify you to create a new PIN. If you are a first time user, go to https://catalog.library.colostate.edu/patroninfo/ Follow the instructions to establish your CSU Libraries' PIN. - "Sorry, cannot locate patron record"
Try entering either your first or last name only, and your ID number with no spaces or hyphens. If you get this message again, contact the Distance Learning Team. - "403 Forbidden"
Only CSU students and employees can use resources from off campus. This message usually means that your status on our system is another category, such as a community borrower not currently enrolled for classes. If you receive this message and you are a currently enrolled student or a CSU employee, contact the Distance Learning Team.
The authentication login screen only asks for two pieces of information, not three. Is this correct?
- No. You should see a login screen like this that asks for your name, CSU ID and PIN. If you see a different login screen, contact the Distance Learning Team for help.
Problems with Web Browsers & Internet Service Providers
Do I need to set up a proxy server on my computer?
- No, you do not need to configure your Web browser to use databases and electronic journals from off campus. When using the databases listing, FindIt (SFX) or Citation Linker from outside the CSU network, you will be automatically asked to authenticate yourself after clicking links to restricted databases or electronic journals. You do need to have your computer set to accept cookies.
Why doesn't the AOL/CompuServe/NetZero browser work for off-campus access?
- These products do not work with our proxy server.
- See specific information for AOL users
Requesting Materials
How do I request books and copies of journal articles? (for Distance Learners, Extension & State Forest Service employees)
- See our page on Research from a Distance.
- Many journals, newspapers, and magazines are available online through Library databases and electronic journals.
If you have more questions...
Please contact the Distance Learning Team.
Phone: (970) 491-6952