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| Computers are often a way for the elderly to keep in touch with family and friends, or connect with other people. |
The following are commmonly asked questions about TADNSW's Computer Support Service. If you do not find the information you need, please ring (02) 9912 3400 and
choose option 1 or email us at css@tadnsw.org.au .
The helpdesk is open from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm Weekdays.
Why is the service called the TAD / RA Gale Computer Support Service?
What happened to the Computer Loan Service?
Am I eligible?
How can I get a refurbished computer?
What are my payment options?
How long do I have to wait before my computer arrives?
Does my computer come with a warranty?
What does "Microsoft Authorised Refurbisher" mean?
I do not know how to use a computer, can you teach me?
Do you offer client support for your computers?
What computer training courses should I attend?
How do I get on the Internet?
Is my computer protected from viruses?
Where do I get help for the software on my computer?
Can I load my own software on my computer?
What if I need extra software or equipment to meet my needs?
Why is the service called the TAD / RA Gale Computer Support Service?
The RA Gale Foundation provided ongoing funding for 14 years to TAD's Computer Support Service and this acknowledges their support.
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What happened to the Computer Loan Service?
Rapid advances in technology and the tendency to upgrade computers sooner has meant that we have had to rethink our service. We previously loaned refurbished computers out at a cost to our clients, but now that we are Microsoft Authorised Refurbishers we are able to offer quality computer systems for a similar price but for purchase rather than on loan. Clients who apply from October 1st, 2008 onwards will be integrated into this new system. All aspects of this service are covered in our Consumer Guide.
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Am I eligible?
To qualify for a computer you must either have a disability or be in receipt of a support pension. You are required to provide a copy of your pension card with your application and you must declare that you an eligible recipient to receive the Microsoft Software. Don't worry, so long as you have a Centrelink pension card you are eligible.
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How can I get a refurbished computer?
You must apply to purchase a computer. An application form is downloadable. Otherwise, please contact our office on 1300 663 243 and choose option 1. Alternatively, email css@tadnsw.org.au
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What are my payment options?
You can do this a number of ways. You can make a single payment by cheque, credit card or money order. Alternatively you can pay instalments by credit card, this must be in four regular payments and you have up to 4 months to pay. If you are paying by credit card we will send the computer to you once you have paid 50% of the amount owing. If you are not paying by credit card you must make full payment before we can send the computer to you.
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How long do I have to wait before my computer arrives?
You are required to pay for the computer before it can be delivered to you. We will prepare and deliver your computer within a few weeks of receiving your final payment. If you do not live in the Sydney metropolitan area your computer will be delivered by Australia post.
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Does my computer come with a warranty?
Your computer comes with a two (2) year Service Agreement which means that TAD will repair or replace your computer for up to two years (conditions apply). This is a back to base repair service which means that you have to return the computer to TAD's workshop, at your expense, for it to be repaired. Please read the Consumer Guide for more details about the Service Agreement.
After the initial two years of service support you can continue your service agreement for a small annual fee. When you service agreement is about to expire we will send you a reminder.
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What does "Microsoft Authorised Refurbisher" mean?
| The Community Microsoft Authorised Refurbisher (MAR) program authorises eligible refurbishers to install a range of software on refurbished computers for eligible recipients. |
| Through the program, Microsoft provides authorised refurbishers, such as TADNSW, with Microsoft media, special certificates of authenticity (COAs), and Eligible Recipient agreements. |
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By reducing the cost of obtaining genuine licenses for refurbished computers the Community MAR programme makes the equipment more affordable and useable for eligible recipients. The Community MAR Web site provides information about the program for refurbishers, computer owners and recipients. We recommend you read the Microsoft Eligible Recipient Agreement and the TADNSW Consumer Guide before applying for a computer.
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I do not know how to use a computer, can you teach me?
If you require extensive instruction on the use of your computer, please contact our support staff so they can suggest an appropriate service.
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Do you offer client support for your computers?
Yes, we offer client support. You may ring our support desk during business hours from Monday to Friday.
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What computer training courses should I attend?
Introductory tours are supplied with Windows. You can access these tours by clicking of START then click on HELP and select "Tours and Tutorials"
All computers come with Microsoft Digital Learning Curriculum Suite pre-installed. That will help you with the basics of operating your computer.
If you are new to computers it is a good idea to do a ‘beginners computer course’ which will introduce you to the basic building blocks of computing and knowing them will substantially improve your computer enjoyment. The availability of these courses will vary depending on where you live. Ask at your local library, read the community notices in your local paper or call your local TAFE for more information.
You can also consider a TAFE course like the following Information Technology for Students with Disabilities TAFE Course (Certificate I)(PDF 426kb).
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How do I get on the Internet?
You need to subscribe to an Internet Service Provider (ISP). An ISP is someone who allows you to access the Internet through their equipment (server) and charges you a fee for using this service.
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Is my computer protected from viruses?
Your computer has AVG Free Edition anti-virus software installed and has been thoroughly checked for viruses before being sent to you.
The main source of viruses is through e-mail and files downloaded from the Internet. If you are connected to the Internet it is very important that you regularly update the anti-virus software. Your computer has been set up to update your anti-virus files each time you access the internet. You may also update these files by manually accessing the AVG website.
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Where do I get help for the software on my computer?
Most software have a Help function. This can usually be accessed through the the right hand side of the menu or by pressing F1. You will have a couple of choices: click on Contents and Index then browse around to find the answer to your question or problem.
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Can I load my own software on my computer?
You may load any software that is legally licensed to you, subject to the availability of space on your hard drive and the limitations of your hardware. Some software may not run on your computer. Before you buy any software you should check that your computer is capable of running the software. If you are not sure how to do this, call the help desk for advice.
TAD does not support software that is not installed by us. We also reserve the right to charge a fee for the cost of transporting the computer to and from your home for repairs.
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What if I need extra software or equipment to meet my needs?
We don't provide any special equipment or software, but we are more than happy to help you set them up.
If you want the computer set up for your disabilities, we need to know a little bit about you. We also need to know about people who provide you with health care services so that we can talk to them if we need to consider your special needs. We do all this so that we can create the right settings on the computer for you.
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