PCAS (Print, Copy and Scan) Accounts are changing

PCAS USE

From 6 September PCAS (Print, Copy & Scan) account authentication will switch to the Bodleian Libraries username and password (which is also used to login to reading room PCs and Bodleian Libraries WiFi).

Existing PCAS accounts will need to be updated and an online portal and library staff will be available to facilitate this.

Why are we making this change?

Using the Bodleian Libraries’ login for PCAS will provide the following benefits:

  • Email addresses will automatically be imported for scan jobs. You will no longer have to use the touchpad unless you want to include an additional email address.
  • Accounts will be automatically set up for all new readers.
  • Separate authentication pop-up will not be needed for sending jobs from reading room PCs – PCAS will take authentication from the authentication used to log in to the PC.
  • One less account to remember for our patrons.
  • More flexibility for future development.

Initially accounts will not automatically be associated with university/Bodleian cards but we aim to develop this in future. Readers will be able to link their card to their account on the device as they can currently by presenting the card and entering the appropriate login details.

What will this mean for my current account?

From 6 September you will need to use the new account details and the old account will no longer work.

What about the unused credit attached to my account?

The balance from previous accounts will not transfer automatically across. From 6 September a simple balance transfer portal will be available online. It asks for the confirmation of the old and new accounts and any unused credit will be transferred across.

What if I can’t remember my old account details?

Support for balance transfer, and all other aspects of the changes, will be available from the PCAS support team at pcas@bodleian.ox.ac.uk.

How will I add credit in the new system?

The methods of adding credit will remain the same – the WebPay portal for credit/debit card top-ups, cash tops at libraries which handle cash, and the cash loader in the Bodleian Library.

Do I need to do anything now?

No, you can continue to use your current PCAS account. Account changes, and the balance transfer service, will only take effect after 6 September. It’s always good practice not to keep too much credit on PCAS accounts.

Are you making any other changes?

A new fleet of copiers will replace the existing machines offering a greener and more reliable service. The new copiers will come with ‘touch’ authentication rather than the existing card swipes. Copying and scanning guides will be posted at each device to help you learn how to use the new equipment and staff will be happy to help.

Prices have been reviewed and colour rates will be significantly lower. A colour A4 copy is reducing from 38p to 20p and A3 from 76p to 40p.

When will this happen?

The new copiers are due to be delivered week beginning 29 August. Deliveries across Bodleian Library sites will take place between 29 August-5 September and the new service will go live on 6 September.

During the implementation phase there will be no PCAS service Tuesday 30 August-Monday 5 September inclusive.

Apologies for this interruption but it is essential to ensure the transition of accounts. The changes we are making will ensure that that service interruptions will be not be necessary for any future developments.

Some Bodleian libraries may be able to provide alternative arrangements during this period. The SSL are currently investigating this and we will keep you informed prior to the downtime.

What support is available?

Front line staff will be on hand to answer questions and support will be available from our PCAS support team at pcas@bodleian.ox.ac.uk.

When the system goes live guides and handouts will be available in the library and posted at: www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/using/copy/pcas

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