User guide

6 PC Moderator ™ Installation and User Guide

Before Using the PC Moderator

Some mental health professionals believe that for certain individuals, excessive computer

use that causes problems in academic, occupational or social functioning may be

symptomatic of more serious mental health problems such as Obsessive Compulsive

Disorder (OCD), anxiety or depression (Woog, 2004). If you suspect a more serious

mental health issue or your child exhibits violence, drug and/or alcohol abuse, self-

injurious behavior or threats of suicide, CONTACT A MENTAL HEALTH

PROFESSIONAL IMMEDIATELY.

Talking To Your Children about the PC Moderator

Before your children use the computer with the PC Moderator, explain to them the purpose

and the conditions for which they are allowed the privilege of using the computer. Even if

your child has their own computer that was given to or purchased by them, using it your

home is still a privilege. Remember that you are paying for the electricity, Internet

connection and a place to use the computer.

Explain to them that the purpose of the PC Moderator is to allow parents to monitor and

set reasonable limits on computer use. Explain that it cannot be easily removed even if

they open up the computer since it is locked onto the VGA port. Explain that the key for

the lock will not be kept in the home so they should not waste time looking for it. Also let

them know that attempting to detach the PC Moderator without properly removing the

lock and cover might seriously damage the computer or cause them personal injury (i.e.

they attempt to cut the case or lock shackle).

Note: While the PC Moderator is constructed of 18 gauge stainless

steel and the padlock of hardened steel, nothing is 100% impenetrable.

That is why you will need to explain to your children before they use

the computer that if they tamper, destroy or otherwise remove the PC

Moderator, they will lose access to the computer for 3 weeks or longer

and if they persist, the computer may be removed from the home

indefinitely. We suggest that you also inform them in advance that if

they damage or destroy the PC Moderator or computer they will be

required to pay for or work to pay the cost of repair or replacement.

You will need to tell each child they have a unique login identification number (1-8) and

give them the password you have assigned them. We suggest you write this information

down on a piece of paper and give it to them. Tell them to destroy the paper once they

have it memorized.