Frequently Asked Questions about the Freshmen Tablet PC program:
Can I purchase a tablet for my son from another vendor?
No. We are purchasing and imaging all tablets through a package from our preferred vendor. This way each computer comes to us with a specific set of accessories and software/hardware configuration for a set price.
What if I see the same tablet cheaper at another vendor, can I buy it and bring it in to Brophy to be set-up?
No. We are purchasing and imaging all tablets through a package from our preferred vendor. This way each computer comes to us with a specific set of accessories and software/hardware configuration for a set price.
Can I upgrade my son’s tablet?
You are welcomed to upgrade the tablet by adding hardware or software as you see necessary. That said, the Tablet PC that you purchase is very adequately equipped and powered so that it is productive as a tool that your son will utilize throughout his school day. Know that anything (software or hardware) that is added to the machine has the potential to interrupt the machines main purpose and any interruptions (e.g. missed assignments, PC not working) that are determined to be caused by actions of the student, including those caused as a side-effect of “upgrading”, are regarded by Brophy College Preparatory as unexcused.
Are there upgrade options available and if so what are they?
A wide variety of upgrades are available. Some of the most popular choices are additional memory (RAM), a docking station to use at home, a carrying case that differs from the Brophy standard backpack, a wireless access point (router) to allow for wireless Internet from home. Several other options are available. Feel free to contact Mr. Mark Pettit at (602) 264-5291 ext. 6264 for specific questions/concerns.
What if I don’t want to use Brophy’s Operating System image?
In order for your son’s tablet to be ready for class use it must be configured to Brophy’s image so that he has access to programs and network information.
How do I connect my son’s tablet to my home network?
Connecting your son’s tablet to your home network depends on a few variables, such as Internet connection, router make/model, and security availability. The first place to start before trying to connect is to speak with our network administrator, Mr. Wess Housh. He can explain which software the tablet uses to connect to your network, and also he can help troubleshoot your specific set-up.
Can I install home software or hardware applications on my son’s tablet?
Yes. If a problem were to occur because of a third party installation of software or hardware not included in original image, Brophy is not liable for loss or corruption of data.
Will that be covered under the warranty, or what are the ramifications if something goes wrong?
Depending on what the problem is, most hardware malfunctions are fixable either on site, or by sending the tablet to a service provider. Certain accessories are not covered under the warranty. If the issue is a software or operating system malfunction, Brophy’s technology team will re-image the tablet to its original state and the student is liable for all work that is lost and/or missed due to the malfunction. It is for this purpose that all students should regularly back up their data to CD, DVD, or other storage device and leave a copy of that backup at home.
Is anything not covered by the warranty?
Certain accessories are not covered under the warranty, including, but not limited to the stylus pen, the power adapter, and extra battery.
What is the procedure if my son’s tablet is broken?
Depending on the particular issue, your son’s first point of contact is with the teacher, who will determine which particular member of the technology staff the student should see. Hardware/Software issues are dealt with by Mr. Mark Pettit. Network/Wireless issues are dealt with by Mr. Wess Housh. Blackboard/Web issues are dealt with by Mr. Blair Cook.
Who owns the tablet?
The tablet hardware is owned by the family who purchased it. Some of the software that is used on the tablet is licensed and purchased by Brophy, and is therefore the property of Brophy. All network and Internet access is the property of Brophy and its use falls under the agreement laid out in the student handbook.
What are my son’s responsibilities with the tablet?
To avoid loss and theft; to not damage it seriously; awareness of installation; to follow the technology policies set forth in the student handbook; completing homework/assignments/projects on time, regardless of tablet functionality due to student error (exceptions are only granted due to Brophy network issues); to have their laptop everyday; come to school everyday with fully charged batteries; also to charge at every opportunity available; backing up of information; maintenance and organization of their tablet and work environment
What are my responsibilities as a parent with the tablet?
To make sure that they have insurance in case of loss or theft; consistently checking up on their student’s work; making sure that their son is abiding by the policies set forth in the student handbook; making sure that their son is following safe Internet policies; especially for those parents who are more “tech-savvy”, it is recommended that the parents take time to navigate through the basic Tablet PC and OneNote tutorials so that you might be able to assist your student if he runs into issues while working at home. Assistance is also always available in the Technology Workroom in Keating Hall.
How are the students going to carry the tablet around campus?
As part of the package for freshmen, your son will receive a special bag that is designed to hold the tablet and other materials that might be required for class, such as paper, binders, books, pens, etc.
Will there be space available for students to store the tablet during/after school?
With the scaling of the number of books that are necessary for freshman, it is our hope that a student be able to fit his tablet bag into his locker with a lock to store his tablet while participating in extra-curricular activities. It should be noted that under no circumstances should a student give his locker combination to any other student.
Who owns the tablet when my son graduates?
The family who purchased the tablet owns the tablet after it has been paid for in full.
Will this computer last my son through four years?
Yes, the projected life cycle for this particular model from the manufacturer is four years.
Will this computer last my son after four years?
The tablet, depending on wear and tear, should last your son for more than four years, but the projected life cycle for the tablet is four years. Students are also covered by the four year warranty to cover damages, which should help to extend the life of the tablet.
Is financial aid available for purchasing a tablet?
Yes, financial aid is available for students who apply and qualify.
How do I go about applying for financial aid?
Financial aid applications are available and to be turned in to the Business Office in Romley hall.
How do I go about applying for financial aid?
Financial aid forms can be either picked up in the Business Office, or you can contact them at 602-264-5291, extention 6229, and request one. Also a representative is in the admissions office today and has the forms, and can answer questions for you.
What if I don’t qualify for financial aid, are there any other resources available to me?
There are no other sources of funding to cover the cost of the tablet through Brophy. You can contact your banking institution, and they may be able to help you with a loan program to cover this cost. For example, Brophy's banking institution Chase Bank was contacted, and they do have loans available in this area, if the family qualifies under their criteria.
- Current students at Brophy can purchase a Toshiba Tablet PC through the school for use in their classes. These students will experience great benefits by using a Tablet PC for their classes, but it should be known that their classroom curriculum will not yet be modified to integrate the Tablet PC. That will come in the years ahead.