Frequently Asked Questions

What information does Minnesota Computers for Schools need when contacting Technical Support?

• Name, school/organization you are with, how and when to contact
• The MCFS program number. This number can be found on the back or side of the computer. It is also found on the Birth Certificate. This number will help MCFS to determine which computer it is and when it was purchased.
• The issue, be sure to include as much information as possible – how long you’ve been having these problems, if there is an error message, what it says, etc.

Is the only option to return my system for repair?
No. The problem you have may not require you to send you system in. We can send out replacement components (i.e. CD-ROM Drives, memory, and hard drives).

How long does it take to repair my system(s)?
In our warranty it states two to four weeks for a repair. If you send a system in for repair plan on that long.

What if our Minnesota Computers for Schools product are no longer under warranty?
MCFS will still do repairs if you are no longer under warranty. Cost will be discussed at the time of contact.

When the system(s) are sent in for repair is the data lost on the hard drive?
This depends on the issues of the system. If the issues are a bad power supply or a bad sound card you may not lose you data. However, if Windows has a corrupted file(s) or will not boot to the hard drive it might call for a new drive or a new image. We recommend that you back up your data prior to shipping the system in. You can back it up to an external hard drive or a CD-ROM.

Why can’t I get a Windows CD to reinstall the Operating System?
As a Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher, we are not able to provide the Operating System disk.

What happens if the new owner, the eligible recipient, needs to reload the operating system? 
Typically, eligible recipients remain in contact with their Microsoft Authorized Refurbishers for ongoing support and can contact the Microsoft Authorized Refurbishers if a major system failure results in the need for reinstallation of the operating system.”