User guide

PC Moderator ™ Installation and User Guide 13

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 identification number (F1-F8) 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. If you have more than one child using the computer be sure to choose

passwords that are not obvious (i.e. their name) or the same for all users (i.e. password). If

they want to change the password or if both you and they forget the password, you can

recall or change their password from the Setup Menu. If you have only one child using the

computer, you can simply press <Enter> when prompted for the user’s password in the

Setup program. Then they won’t have to remember a password or enter one after the Login

prompt. They can simply press <Enter> at the Password screen.

Battles With Your Children Regarding the PC Moderator

It is likely, especially if you have teenagers, that your children will not be happy about the

setting of limits on their computer use. There is little you can say to convince them that

this product is helpful to them except for research suggesting negative biological effects

due to nighttime computer use. Getting into an argument about the PC Moderator will not

be useful. Tell them that you have decided to set limits and will continue to do so until you

decide otherwise. It is important to be empathic and understanding of their frustration

while continuing to stand firm on your decision. Temper tantrums, yelling matches and

other forms of adolescent manipulation may result. Usually these will settle down quickly

followed by days of griping or attempts to coerce you into removing it. They might explain

that it conflicts with their programs especially those that use the <Scroll Lock> key. Very

few program use this key and many (especially games) allow the “remapping” (changing

the keys used for certain functions) of conflicting keys. If you are not sure about conflicts

or the compatibility problems reported by your child, please go to our technical support

section of our web site www.pcmoderator.com.

Once things have settled down, it is likely your child will be coming to you for some

additional bonus time. If you choose to offer bonus time, we suggest you do so only after

they have shown you their completed homework and/or chores. Explaining this to your

children from the very beginning is strongly recommended. Remember that bonus time

overrides the time ranges thus it may allow your child to stay on the computer later than

you expect.