Helpdesk

You can make a graphical connection to calypso using what is called "X11". With it, you can run programs that have a graphical interface (such as Gregor for Unix) and manage your files via a more friendly graphical interface than the standard Unix command line.

However, the setup of such a connection is a little bit more involved that your standard ssh connection.

Configuring X-Win

First, you need a program called X-Win32, which provides the actual graphical display. If you don't already have it installed, please see contact the helpdesk for assistance.

Once it's been installed, first run the configuration program, usually found in Start->Programs->X-Win32->X-Config. Click on the Add button to configure a session.

In the subsequent dialog, you'll be asked what connection type you would like to use. Select the XDMCP option, and then click the Next button.

In the next dialog, enter calypso for the Session name, select Broadcast for the XDMCP type, set the Window mode to Single, and check the Launch New Window option. Once you're done, hit the Save button.

Now, go Window tab, and select Single for Window Mode. Click OK when you are done to complete the X-Win32 configuration.

Now, you can run X-Win32. Nothing will happen yet- the X-Win32 icon will appear in your system tray and you may see a blank gray screen that you can hide for now.

Connecting and tunneling with ssh

To actually make the connection to calypso, you will need to ssh to it first. For this, you will need "SSH Secure Shell". This is installed on most computers in our department. If you can't find it under your Programs menu, then contact the helpdesk for assistance.

If you haven't already configured a "profile" for calypso, select Add Profile..." from the Profiles drop down menu, then give it a name (ie "calypso"). Once the profile has been created, you can go to the Edit Profiles option.

The profile editor may look different, depending on your version of SSH Secure Shell. Make sure you select the "calypso" profile you created above. The important configuration option is the hostname, which should be "calypso.genetics.ucla.edu". The username is convenient but not necessary.

The other important option is called "X11 Tunneling", and in this version of SSH Secure Shell appears in the Tunneling tab. Check the box to turn it on.

Once you have set these options (hostname and X11 tunneling), you can save by clicking OK. Now you are ready to connect. Select calypso from the Profiles drop down menu and you'll be asked for your calypso password. Once you've succesfully logged in, enter the following command to begin your X11 session:

gnome-session

Once your session has begun, you can hide the SSH Secure Shell window.