1. Can I use the HP mini computer and software throughout my years at Wheatland Center?

 

Yes. While the rapid pace of computer technology guarantees that more advanced units will be available before you graduate, your unit will be powerful enough for your classroom work throughout your career at Wheatland Center. The available software will be usable in upper level as well as entry-level work. Of course, just as upper level courses require different textbooks, you may need additional software as you move through the curriculum.

 

2. What if I already have another model or brand of mini/laptop computer?

 

You will be able to use your own laptop upon review by the tech office for compatibility.  All school rules apply when using a personal laptop at school.

 

3. Can I have my mini computer this summer?

 

Yes. All minis will be collected at the end of the school year for general maintenance, cleaning, and software installation purposes. Students will receive their minis again after completion of this maintenance for continued use in the summer.

 

4. What about insurance against theft or breakage through carelessness?

 

Your mini computer is very portable and very valuable, making it an attractive target for thieves. Insurance options are outlined at the end of this document. The best insurance is to take care of your mini. Do not leave your mini in the building, classroom, concourse, or car unattended. Always know where your mini is Above all, take your computer home each night.

 

5. Does Wheatland Center provide maintenance on my HP 110-3018

mini computer?

 

Yes. The Help Desk will coordinate maintenance for students. Students enrolled at Wheatland Center will be covered by a maintenance agreement for items described in the HP warranty agreement and Accidental Protection Plan. Please consult the warranty agreement so that you understand what is and what is not covered.

 

6. What will I do without a computer in my classes if my mini unit is

being repaired or while I am replacing it if it is lost or stolen?

 

Wheatland Center School stocks a limited number of mini computers that

can be loaned out on a first come, first-served basis. You will be able to apply for a

loaner unit in Room 195, the same area where you will go for service on your mini computer. If you are in possession of a loaner, treat it as if it were your own computer. You will be responsible for any damage to the unit or for its loss.

 

7. If I purchase software in addition to the available software provided

through Wheatland Center, will the Technical Help Desk staff load it for

me?

 

If an application is deemed educational and relevant to student learning, the help desk will help you load the software onto the mini.  If an application is deemed for un-educationally relevant purpose the software will be denied and not loaded on the mini.

 

8. Do I need a printer?

 

You need not own one since printers are located near classrooms, in the computer labs at school. Printing should be kept to a minimum, as teaching strategies will facilitate digital copies of homework.

 

9. Will I need to buy a modem?

 

No. A modem is not needed; access at school and at home is through a wireless network.

 

10. How do I connect to the Internet at home?

 

You may connect to the Internet using a cable Ethernet connection or wireless

Ethernet connection.

 

11. Will there be facilities to back up the files I create on my mini?

 

Yes. When you save your documents to the My Documents folder, your files are automatically saved to the school storage server.

 

12. What if I want to add options to my mini later?

 

Only the Wheatland Center School District is authorized to add options and upgrades to your mini computer via request through the tech office.

 

13. What if I want to run another operating system on my mini?

 

Only the operating system chosen by the Wheatland Center School District will be authorized to run on a student-issued mini computer.

 

14. Will I be given a new battery if mine goes bad?

 

Defective batteries will be the responsibility of the manufacturer. You will be responsible for charging your battery and proper battery maintenance.

 

15. What has the school done to help prevent students from going to inappropriate sites?

 

We have a software product designed to help monitor all Internet sites that students attempt to access. This software blocks inappropriate sites and also logs a history of every site that each user opens. All students who attempt to find inappropriate sites will be directed to the Principal’s Office.

 

16. Are Student Minis subject to school “snooping”; what if they bring their mini in for repairs and “objectionable data” is detected?

 

Inappropriate material on minis should be reported to the classroom teacher, assistant principal, or Help Desk immediately upon identification.  Students who have “objectionable data” on their mini but have failed or chosen not to report it, will be referred to the Principal’s Office.