Who is eligible?
You are eligible if you are on a low income, the holder of a concession card and can pick up the computer from ComputerBank in Fairy Meadow. Fill in the application form supplied with this sheet. Your application must state why you would like a computer and include a supporting letter. We will accept a supporting letter from a Social service agency, case worker, support worker, education institution, psychiatrist, psychologist, government department or religious leader. Your support letter should include proof of low income and a brief description of why you need a computer. All information obtained by ComputerBank will be treated confidentially. We do not accept support letters from Doctors (GP’s).

The basic free ComputerBank system comprises:

• The Desktop computer hardware is usually a minimum Pentium III, running at 600Mhz, with 256Mb RAM, on a 2 – 8.4 Gig hard drive. It also has a floppy disk drive, min. 15” Monitor, a keyboard and mouse. These minimums may change from time to time, as we have parts available.
• Linux Operating System. – This is a form of Linux OS, and is a complete operating system. – THIS SYSTEM WILL NOT RUN WINDOWS PROGRAMS.
• The following free and open source software is installed:
• Open Office for word documents, spreadsheets, PowerPoint presentations, drawing, PDF Writer and Reader etc (compatible with Microsoft Windows)
• The GIMP imaging program and basic card and kids’ games.
• Mozilla web browser, Email reader and GAIM chat software. These programs will be useful if you purchase a modem and organise an internet connection.
• Touch typing tutor can be supplied if this required.
• The computer comes with free training to ensure you will be confident when you take it home.

Unlike Microsoft Windows computers there are no licence fees for the operating system, the desktop environment or any of the software on a Computerbank computer. The computers have been designed and built from the ground up by highly skilled volunteers at Computerbank. The computers are donated by organisations and individuals. The Linux operating system and most of the software included with it is available to use, copy, modify and distribute free of charge under the General Public License (GPL).

We do NOT supply Windows systems or windows software. We do not configure “dual boot” systems.

Extras available with the basic computer for a fee:

• $15 Sound card,
• $15 CD ROM drive,
• $5 - $20 External Speakers,
• $25 External Modem 56.5 Kb If you have a modem and an internet connection your Computerbank computer will let you browse the Internet, write and receive email and chat.

If you want any of these extras include a $10 deposit with your application. The deposit can be by money order, cheque (payable to “Computerbank Illawarra”) or by cash in person.

Internet Services
Computerbank can not provide a free internet service. Computerbank can help you find an internet service provider once your application has been approved. Organise your internet service before collection or delivery so that we can set it up for you. Instructions are provided in our user guide or you can bring your computer back at a later date if you are unable to do this. We find it time consuming setting up internet connections over the phone.

Printers
We do not provide printers. Some of the printers that work with Computerbank computers include
Epson C45: $65 (USB only) Epson C65: $109 (USB only) Epson C43UX: $80 - $100 (USB only) Hewlett Packard Deskjet 3820: $119.00 (USB or Parallel) HP Deskjet 3550: $50 - $100 (USB only) HP PSC1315 printer, scanner and copier in one: $130-140 (USB only) Prices from IT Supermarket at 26th June, 2005
When buying a printer not on this list check with us to make sure it will work with your Computerbank computer. Also check the cost of ink replacement – some ink replacements cost over $90.

Training and Support
Computerbank offers training to all successful applicants. Your current computer skills (or lack of) will not affect your eligibility; we will help you learn all you need to know to get going. We encourage you to attend at least one training session. We will book the training time with you when your application is approved.

During the first three months of receiving a computer Computerbank provides telephone and inhouse support on Fridays between 10am-4pm (subject to volunteer resources). We also provide Email support to users of our systems.

If in home training or support is required we charge $25 an hour plus GST and a call out fee of between $15-$30.

Other important Information

• We will call you when your application is approved and book your training sessions. If you are worried about the progress of your application we don't mind if you call us.
• Our voluntary service operates on a first come first served basis we cannot commit to your deadlines.
• All applications go onto a waiting list. The waiting list for individuals and groups wanting a desktop computer is around two months. The waiting list for the popular public access network is around four months.
• Computerbank is unable to deliver computers, please ensure you can organise your own transport for your computer (courier, friend, taxi, social worker, or other).
• If you have any additional peripherals (eg: printer, scanner, modem, etc) which need to be configured with the computer, they must be brought into the office one week before picking up your computer, otherwise we make no guarantee that they will work.
• If you fail to attend booked training sessions and you do not let us know in advance - you will be required to re-apply. Your application will return to the end of the waiting list.
• Our service is a volunteer service. When you come to Computerbank we would appreciate it if you could remember this and thank our volunteers for the work they do.

Community Groups
We can provide non-profit organisations with multiple computers for a low fee. If necessary, we can set up a network with a server. For more information on this service, click here for more information and an application form.

Application form
To obtain an application form, click here to download a form in pdf format,and send it to our mail address of PO Box 531, Fairy Meadow. Or you can send us a stamped self-addressed envelope and we will send you an application form by return mail.

To print out this information click here to obtain a copy in pdf format.