Alertus
Description: The Alertus Desktop Client software provides VCU computers with the ability to display alert messages from the VCU Alerts webpage. These alert messages are similar to the text messages that VCU Alerts subscribers receive on their mobile phones. Only critical alert messages regarding campus safety will be transmitted to a computer which has Alertus Desktop installed. When the Alertus software receives an alert message it will display it full screen on the computer monitor. Currently, the software only receives alert messages when connected to an on-campus network, or via Rams VPN.
Platform: Windows and Mac
Cost: No Charge
Alertus Desktop Client
The Alertus Desktop Client (ADC) software provides VCU computers with the ability to display alert messages from the VCU Alerts webpage: https://alert.vcu.edu/. Only critical alert messages regarding campus safety will be transmitted to a computer which has the ADC installed.
Alertus Desktop Screen
This is an example of an alert message that is sent to a computer that has the ADC installed. Once the computer receives the alert message, it displays it full screen taking priority over other running apps. The user may click the dismiss button to acknowledge the message. Or they may wait until the message automatically times out.
Desktop Client for Windows
The Alertus Desktop Client for Windows is available for download. You will need to login and complete the registration form to access the software download link. Installation and uninstallation instructions are also provided.
Alertus for Windows » Download
Instructions for Windows
After clicking Download, the Alertus program will be sent to your Downloads folder in File Explorer on your computer.
Install Alertus
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Locate Alertus.exe file in your Downloads folder.
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Double click on the .exe file.
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Wait for the installer to complete the installation process.
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Click OK when the installer is done.
Uninstall Alertus
If you wish to remove Alertus from your computer, perform the following steps.
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Go to the Start button >> Settings >> Control Panel.
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Select programs or Apps and select Alertus.
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Click Uninstall.
Desktop Client for Mac
The Alertus Desktop Client for Mac is available for download. You will need to login and complete the registration form to access the software download link. Installation and uninstallation instructions are also provided.
Alertus for Mac » Download
Instructions for the Mac
After clicking Download, the Alertus program will be sent to your Downloads folder on your computer.
Install Alertus
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Locate alertus.dmg in your Downloads folder.
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Double click the dmg file to open it.
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Then double click the pkg file.
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Click the Continue button twice.
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Click Continue once the install finds the config file.
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Click Continue to agree to the license terms.
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Click Install. You will then be prompted to enter your Mac computer password to allow the application to install the program.
Uninstall Alertus
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Click on the Spotlight search tool (magnifying glass in top right corner of the screen).
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Type Terminal in the search box and press enter.
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Type the following command into the terminal pkill -9 “Alertus” and hit enter.
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Now open Finder and drag the Alertus Desktop app to the trash can.
FAQs & Support
The Alertus Frequently Asked Questions provide information about Windows and Mac client for your computer. Technology Services provides support for the Alertus when needed.
Alertus Client for Windows
How do I know that Alertus is functioning properly on my Windows computer?
The software is represented by a yellow circular icon that runs in the system tray located in the right lower corner of your Windows computer. Open the arrow to see more icons if it is not visible.
If you right click on it, it will show the status of the software. It also shows any previous VCU
alert messages that have been sent to the computer (i.e. under Recent Messages).
How do I know when Alertus is not running on my Windows computer?
If the icon is red, that means the ADC is disconnected or experiencing a problem. Open the arrow to see more icons if it is not visible. Please contact the IT Support Center for assistance: 804-828-2227 or itsc@vcu.edu.
Alertus Client for Mac
How do I know that Alertus is functioning properly on my Mac computer?
The software is represented by a yellow circular icon that runs in the menu bar on your Apple computer.
If you right click on it, it will show the status of the software. It also shows any previous VCU alert messages that have been sent to the computer (i.e. under Recent Messages).
How do I know when Alertus is not running on my Mac computer?
If the icon appears red, the ADC is disconnected or experiencing a problem. Please contact the IT Support Center for assistance: 804-828-2227 or itsc@vcu.edu
Alertus Support
Technology Services provide problem solving support on the installation and use of Alertus on the Windows and Mac computer. If you need assistance, please contact the IT Support Center at 804-828-2227 or itsc@vcu.edu.