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Recycled Computers


The Computerbank computer

  • Computers start from $30, or $20 if you don't need an LCD screen.
  • All computers include an LCD monitor, keyboard, mouse and connecting cables and power cords.
  • All computers are refurbished and quality assured.
  • Three months back to base warranty.
  • Have Linux and useful open source software.
  • We don't put Microsoft Windows on our computers
  • A free user guide
  • 2 free training sessions at Computerbank
  • See our shop for details and costs of our faster machines.

 

What is on the Computerbank computer?

  • All our computers come with over 70 open source software programs.  Programs include word processing, spreadsheets, pdf maker, presentation slides, typing tutor, maths games, kids games, solitaire, sudoku, chess, web camera software, GIMP graphics, Dia for diagrams, Inkscape Vector Illustrator, Firefox, Skype, Wireless Mobile Broadband setup for several service providers.
  • The operating system is a customised Ubuntu Linux NOT Windows OS.

Who is eligible for a low cost computer?

  • Low cost recycled computers are available for community groups and people who have an Australian Commonwealth Concession Card or Health Care Card. We can also help if you are a student.

I am eligible - how do I choose a computer?

  • Bring your Australian Commonwealth Concession Card, Health Care Card, Student Card or proof of Asylum Seeker status to Computerbank on a Friday and Saturday between 10 - 5pm.
  • Choose a computer from our shop.
  • Fully working computers start at $30.  Faster computers (Core 2 Duo) with DVDs range up to $250
  • We will give you a one page application to fill out - so we can support you if something goes wrong.
  • There is no waiting list you can take your computer with you.

Do you have Laptops?

We have a very small number of laptops so they go to people who have a disability support pension card.  The only way a regular concession card holder can get a laptop is by bringing a support letter stating why the laptop is needed and why a desktop computer or a usb drive can't help you. Laptops start from $70, price depends on model or specifications of the laptop. We don't always have laptops available.

Our computer warranty

  • Our restored computers come with a three months back to base warranty. We extend the warranty to six months if the original operating system, Linux, is still installed on the computer. If you have a problem with your computer bring it back to us on a Friday or Saturday.  
  • The charge for repairs to machines after 3 months is $25 plus the cost of parts.
  • There will be charge if a Computerbank computer has been tampered with and items replaced or removed.  We charge $25 if the machine has become faulty after a Windows installation. We will not install Windows only the Linux operating system.

How do you help me if my Computerbank computer becomes faulty?

  • If you have a problem with your computer bring it back to us on a Friday or Saturday. Ring us before you come so we can give your problem priority.  Most repairs in the first three months after purchase are free. 
  • There will be charge if a Computerbank computer has been tampered with and items replaced or removed.  We charge $25 if the machine has become faulty after a Windows installation. We will not install Windows only the Linux operating system.
  • The charge for repairs to machines after 3 months is $25.

Opening hours

  • Opening times 10-5pm Fridays and Saturdays.
  • Don't forget to bring along your Concession Card.
  • Our address is 483 Victoria St (near Dyrburgh St), West Melbourne.

Will you deliver my computer?

  • No we are not able to deliver computers.  We don't have any volunteers available to drive around Melbourne.
  • If you don't have transport you will have to organise a family member, friend or social worker to pick up your computer from Computerbank in West Melbourne.

What is the free training Computerbank offers?

In our Saturday afternoon basic training session we show you:

  • How to use our Ubuntu/Linux computers.
  • We show you how to create documents, browse the Internet and to access our games.
  • We show you how to access the software on the computer. 
  • We show you where your documents and files are stored.  
  • We discuss the major differences between the Linux/operating system and Windows. 
  • We explain that documents and spreadsheets created on a Computerbank computer can be read and used on a Windows pc.
  • How to assemble the computer when you get it home.
  • The classes are small between 2 and five people.  Each person works on a computer in the training session.
  • Trainers are advanced Linux users who have a range of experiences in the field. Training guides will also be provided.
  • We do not provide Microsoft Windows software or training.
  • Training starts at 1.30 and continues until approximately 4.30. 
  • Because we only take 5 people in a session you must book with Computerbank to attend a class.  You can leave a message on 9600 9161 stating your name and the Saturday you would like to attend training. We will ring you back to confirm the date. 

Who can attend your free training?

  • Free training is offered in West Melbourne if you qualify and obtain a Computerbank computer.
  • You have three months from the time you get your computer to come to a free session.
  • Because we only take 5 people in a session you must book with Computerbank to attend a class.  You can leave a message on 9600 9161 stating your name and the Saturday you would like to attend training.  We will ring you back to confirm the date. 
  • Training starts at 1.30 and continues until approximately 4.30. 

What other training do you provide?

We have Show Me How Days.  These are run on the third Saturday of each month at 2pm.  If you have a Computerbank computer and wish to add a camera, a printer or have a question about any aspect of your computer,  bring your item in and we can show you how it works with your computer. 

We do not provide advanced Linux software training for free. Advanced training and computer building workshops can be provided to groups or in a one on one setting. We charge an hourly rate plus a call out fee if at your place.  Contact us at info@computerbank.org.au for more information.

There are also many free open source resources on the internet to further your knowledge.  You could try these links. Open Source Software and Linux Ubuntu information   There are also many open source software user groups where you can meet people and learn more.

Will you put Microsoft Windows on a computer I get from you?

No we will not put Microsoft Windows on one of our computers.  Computerbank computers come with the Ubuntu/Linux free operating system we have included lots of useful software.

You can surf the web, create documents, play games, work on graphics on our computers.

We are committed to using free and open source software. 

What printers do you have available?

We sometimes have low cost second hand printers available in our shop. 

What printers work with your Ubuntu computers?

Not all printers work with our Ubuntu operating system. See here for further information

Computers for overseas countries

  • We are a voluntary run organisation and have no funding for transportation to overseas countries.
  • Overseas groups applying for a computer/s will have to pay for and organise the pickup, transportation of the computers to another country and delivery at the destination.
  • Preference is given to people supporting Linux and open source software.
  • Computers are not always available for overseas submissions.
  • Application forms can  be obtained by sending a business sized stamped self addressed envelope to our mailing address at 483 Victoria St, West Melbourne, VIC. 3003.

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