WHAT'S NEW

March 2010

Need A Nerd

The Federation of NZ SeniorNet Societies Inc has successfully created a preferred supplier relationship with Need A Nerd for its members.

Need A Nerd is specialist onsite computer and technology support company that sells, supports, and provides advice on anything techie from computers to mobile phones.

So in basic terms a Nerd or Nerdette comes to our customers to support:

• a residential customer who has a simple problem such as a loose computer cable, needs a new computer or their current computer to run faster, or their video / dvd set-up, or

• to a small / medium business who requires a review of their computer infrastructure, a new Server installed, remote access from home, or even a fax machine set-up.

The Nerds are specialist mobile technicians that have all the tools required to perform any techie task at a businesses or in the home. Our Nerds have people skills and they talk in terms you can understand!

Need A Nerd has company owned and franchise territories in Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Rotorua, Taupo, Napier, Hastings, Gisborne, Palmerston North, Wellington, Christchurch and Invercargill. We already have existing relationships with SeniorNet in some of these locations.

March 2010 Initial Offer

As a special offer to mark the commencement of the relationship Need A Nerd will come to your place to provide a complementary review (warrant of fitness) of your computer system and provide recommendations on how to improve what you have. Just call 0800 63 33 26.

The benefits that Need A Nerd will provide all SeniorNet members are:

• Need A Nerd is sponsoring The Federation Of NZ SeniorNet Societies Inc

• Need A Nerd offers all SeniorNet members a preferred rate of $89 per hour (incl GST).

• Provide technology articles for your newsletters

• Local managers will love the opportunity to be guest speakers at your local meetings

• Need A Nerd will provide flyers for each training centre so it is easy to find us

You can contact Need A Nerd using the following methods:

• Call 0800 63 33 26 (0800 Need a Nerd)

• E-mail service@needanerd.co.nz

• Click on the banner advert on the www.seniornet.co.nz site and this will take you to a quick form on www.needanerd.co.nz

Your local Need A Nerd manager will be in contact with your local training centre. Please note the areas that Need A Nerd is located in.

Need A Nerd is very excited about assisting SeniorNet members with their technology needs.

Have a Nerdy Day!

March 2010

Windows 7 - How to do a fresh install from an Upgrade version of the software.

This information is sourced from a newsletter received from WindowsSecrets.com - John Selby from Whakatane SeniorNet is a subscriber to the Newsletter and has made this information available to SeniorNet members.

To avoid any suggestion of violating the newsletter copyright I have paraphrased the information rather than copy and paste it, and I've added some comments of my own.

WARNING: The usual cautions apply about backing up all your data to some place outside the HDD you're working on, before doing anything major such as upgrading or re-installing an operating system.

1. Can you do an "in place" upgrade from Windows XP to Windows 7?
   (This question included simply because there was some misleading information circulating which led people to believe that you couldn't "upgrade" from Windows XP to Windows 7). Answer:- Yes, you can just go ahead and use the upgrade disk and it will "probably" install without any problems.

   If you start the Windows 7 installation while you already have your existing Windows running, (using the upgrade key that came with the upgrade disk), it is highly likely the installation and on-line validation will proceed without any trouble.

   BUT: The technical gurus warn that installing a new operating system on top of an old one is like building a new house on old foundations.

   There's a risk that the new system could be undermined by stuff left over from the old one.

   Many of the reported problems people are having with Windows 7 installations are associated with in-place upgrades over existing XP or Vista installations.

   Some of your existing applications may not behave properly afterwards.

   Best chance of reliability is from a clean install.

   But, a clean install means you then have to re-install all the applications you need on the new operating system.

   Better check first that they will run on Windows 7, and that you have the original installation disks.

2. Can I do a "clean" install of Windows 7 from an upgrade disk?
   Answer - Almost certainly Yes.
   1. If you want to do a clean install, using the HDD containing your current version of Windows, proceed as in 1) above, but you can reformat your HDD at the beginning of the installation process. (Remember the warning about backing up all your data, as the reformat wipes out everything on the HDD).
   2. If you want to play safe and keep your existing HDD aside in case something goes wrong, you can install a new HDD in its place, and disconnect or remove the old one. In this case you won't have Windows running, and will need to boot from the upgrade DVD and follow the on-screen instructions. It's highly probable that the installation will proceed smoothly and validate, even though you had no existing copy of Windows on that drive.

3. What do I do if the installation won't validate?
   If your try to use the validation key and then see a pop-up message saying "The product key is not valid," just go ahead and do the installation without the validation key, choosing to validate later.

   There's a choice of methods to achieve validation.

   1. Phone Microsoft for assistance.
      They are apparently keen to help people having problems with installing Windows 7 and are likely to sort it out for you over the phone. The number to call is 0800 676 334

   2. or ... Use Windows 7 to validate itself.

   Once you've finished the install, shut down and re-boot the new installation. Once it is running, insert the upgrade DVD again as though to re-start the installation all over again. This time, don't choose "Custom" as you are upgrading to Windows 7 from Windows 7. Put in the validation key when prompted and the installation should proceed OK, and validate itself next time you go on-line.

4. Is it legitimate to use the upgrade disk like this?
   Answer:- It appears to be so.

   The newsletter points out that Microsoft have made it very easy for people to use the upgrade disk in this way, and that their system happily goes ahead and validates such installations as genuine.

   The newsletter also quotes the following relevant part from Microsoft

   EULA:-

   "To use upgrade software, you must first be licensed for the software that is eligible for the upgrade. Upon upgrade, this agreement takes the place of the agreement for the software you upgraded from. After you upgrade, you may no longer use the software you upgraded from."

   So, if you're happy to give up using your existing copy of Windows in favour of the new Windows 7, it appears you will be in the clear. For more information contact John Selby selby@xnet.co.nz

November 2009

SeniorNet gets Sorted

From 1 November 2009 SeniorNet is partnering with the Retirement Commission to help our members get their personal finances sorted. Using learning resources and calculators on the Commission's excellent website - sorted.org.nz - we're hoping members will be able to learn a little about using calculators online and at the same time glean a few tips about managing your money!

Over the coming months the Retirement Commissioner Diana Crossan will also be speaking at our regional meetings, you'll be able to pick up Sorted's free booklets at SeniorNet's Learning Centres and we'll be looking to help the Commission test some of their new calculators. If you're interested in joining a SeniorNet testing panel email us.

Click here to view our new Sorted.org.nz Calculators page

October 2009

Microsoft Windows 7 operating system now available

The much awaited new Microsoft Operating System has now been officially launched. Windows 7 is the replacement operating system for Windows Vista.

SeniorNet members can enjoy significant discounts by ordering through the Federation from this website.

Prices listed below are for SeniorNet Federation members only. If you wish to order simply click onto the product and fill out the order form then send the email

Before you decide to order it would be wise to check-out the links below.

Here is a link that might be helpful in deciding what edition would be best http://windows.microsoft.com/en-NZ/windows7/products/compare

Here is a link that might be helpful in guiding you on the system requirements needed for your computer to use Windows 7 http://windows.microsoft.com/systemrequirements

Here is a link that might be helpful in guiding you how to upgrade from Windows XP to Windows 7 http://windows.microsoft.com/en-NZ/windows7/help/upgrading-from-windows-xp-to-windows-7

	Product	Code	Retail Price Includes GST	SeniorNet Price Incl GST & delivery	Saving	Click to order
	Windows Professional 7 DVD	FQC-00133	$599.00	$485.00	$114.00
	Windows Professional 7 Upgrade	FQC-00134	$499.00	$420.00	$79.00
	Windows Home Premium 7 DVD	GFC-00025	$389.00	$345.00	$44.00
	Windows Home Premium 7 Upgrade	GFC-00026	$249.00	$220.00	$29.00
	Windows Ultimate 7 DVD	GLC-00181	$599.00	$510.00	$89.00
	Windows Ultimate 7 upgrade	GLC-00183	$499.00	$445.00	$54.00

October 2009

Your Family’s History

Your Family’s History is an introductory handbook written by John MacGibbon as an extension to talks he gave this year at the National Library, about researching, writing and publishing a family history. The book draws on his long experience in genealogy, and as a professional writer and publisher.

Information on how and where to do research is particularly aimed at people new to genealogy. People who want to take the next step and publish their work, willfind John’s professional advice on writing, layout, working with graphics, publishing and printing particularly helpful.

The handbook is strong on the computer and networkingaspects of genealogy. The author started out in the mid 1990s before much was available on the Internet, and he had to use systems such as FidoNet, Compuserve, Telnet and Usenet. Since then there's been a huge explosion of Internet resources and the booklet gives useful pointers in this area.

Other computer-type advice includes backing up data (both 'on the ground' and in the 'cloud'),setting up a special project blogsite, using Evernote as a searchable repository for research notes, and using software for genealogy databases, writing, graphics editing and book production.

There is also advice on using digital cameras in research and image production.

Your Family’s History is a 40 page, A5 booklet, containing 11,000 words and 24 illustrations. It is available from the Ngaio Press website (www.ngaiopress.com/familyhistory.htm) and on TradeMe (search for the book title). Or send a cheque to Ngaio Press, PO Box 29-010, Wellington. The price is $15 plus $2 postage.

October 2009

The Easirest for Laptop Computers

October 2009

Tenth Year Celebration Horowhenua

The Horowhenua SeniorNet Learning Centre with its base in Levin celebrated its tenth year of operation in traditional style.

A gathering of many of those who have been involved with the centre were on hand to commemorate the occasion. A magnificent cake was baked and iced with the SeniorNet embellished on the top.

The high point was when Des Spence (the very first ever member of the Learning Centre) cut the cake (he's a bit shy, so Helen (another tutor and our first female on the committee) held his cake-cutting hand. Des is still an active member of SeniorNet Horowhenua.

In the afternoon an Open Day was held in the classroom and quite a few members of the public came through, some 'old' members were re-recruited and new people signed up for classes a mighty day was had by all.

Many thanks to Bert who led the planning of the day.

October 2009

Fun Short Course Available From Clyde at the Horowhenua Learning Centre

I have a short set of How-to-Trace in Word...no extra tools needed. It's good for quilters and I use it when I need an image of something I want to 'decorate' my way.

I recently had an email from a woman who has an on-line set of tutorials about MS Paint. I had sent here one of my fun exercises in Paint and she asked if she could use it on her site. She did and gave me credit for it. This was flattering and I was pleased to share the fun.

The tracing set is fun and useful for some. It began with a student whose wife (a quilter) had a scan of a magazine photo of a child's quilt that she wanted to re-create. Using Word, I could isolate each section and trace the shapes of the pieces...paste them in a separate document and square by square she could have the shapes to use.

We have a lot of quilters in the club and there are several ways that MS Word can help them even without extra software.
So.. if you would like to have a copy of the notes please email me Clyde Dawson clydawson@xtra.co.nz.

October 2009

Adaptive Technology Solutions

We provide assessments, training & products for people with a range of disabilities, including sensory, physical and learning disabilities, to make it easier for them do things like reading print & using their computer in order to help them achieve their goals in work, study or leisure.

Click here for more information www.adaptivetech.co.nz

August 2009

SENIORNET HUTT CITY CELEBRATES A DECADE

It seems only yesterday that a Probus Club talk by Grant Sidaway explaining the SeniorNet story sowed the seeds for a Learning Centre in the Hutt. Following a jam packed public meeting, the first classes got underway in 1999 thanks to a great deal of help and input from SeniorNet Wellington. Since then we have progressed remarkably; membership remains steady at the over 450 mark and well over 3000 Hutt seniors have now become more computer literate. At our AGM on the 22 July we had a very special meeting celebrating our anniversary and were delighted that we were joined on the day by, not only our own members, but representatives of other local SeniorNets. Several members reminisced about the past decade including Jack Hazlett of SeniorNet Wellington who has done so much for the movement. We believe one of our outstanding contributions to SeniorNet was the design of the SeniorNet Administration Program (SNAP). It is significant that many of those who volunteered 10 years ago are still involved today and they, like many others, are looking forward to the next 10 years.

Anniversary cake made by one of our members and the Chairman's wife Christine Meredith about to cut the cake flanked by the Chairman Wayne (Left) and Deputy Chair Brian Thomas.

July 2009

SENIORNET UPPER HUTT INC - LIFE MEMBERSHIP FOR GEORGE HARVEY

SeniorNet Upper Hutt Inc.started life at the Citizens Advice Bureau Rooms in Upper Hutt but moved, in late 1998, to Bonnie Glen Crescent hall where meetings started at 2.30pm. The first AGM was held on 17 November 1998 attended by 50 members and guests. The numbers soon grew and a few of those members are still with us today. In those days members were allocated a number and among them was Number 113 in the name of George Harvey.

From the beginning George has held a variety of offices for the club : Building manager in 1999, Tutor in 2000, 2001 and on, teaching Word Processing, Internet & E-mail and Scanning, He was Chairman in 2002 and 2003 and has been on the committee in some form or other since then, being given the title of Technical Liaison Officer in 2005.

Late in 2000 when the Council decided we could no longer have Lemchen Hall, George was one of a group of members who set out to find other premises. In early 2001 we were installed at the CIT, what a great place that was! However it wasn't long before a certain MP came along and deemed the CIT should go to Petone and once more we were on the hunt for new rooms. Our steadfast band of volunteers including George found us a room at CITEC in Messines Road, Trentham where we moved to in March 2002 only to be kicked into touch by the Hurricanes a short time later. Back on the road again due to George and Ron McInteer and the generosity of Peter Richardson, lawyer, in December 2002 the club was offered a place in King Street and I think the longer serving members will all agree they were the best club rooms ever. But now you know that didn't last and we are now in City Arcade, Main Street, Upper Hutt.

George has met with Mayors, MPs, and CIT Bosses to find space so that the SeniorNet Club can continue. During all these moves George, along with Kerian Hibbs, Ron McInteer and Bob McCullough, set up and serviced the computers.

George has attended several Regional meetings. He has given a great deal of time to helping others by going to their homes and sorting out computer problems. It has become part of his life.

At the AGM on 12 May 2009 the SeniorNet Club of Upper Hutt Incorporated was delighted to award Life Membership to George Harvey.

July 2009

Winners of the TelstraClear Competition

Carol McFarlane from Tauranga has won the draw for the $150 TelstraClear credit. Vouchers have been sent to Carol – Congratulations!

Canon wireless printer winners:

Group 1

Marlborough Sounds

Group 2

Sorry a lot of centres entered but one of the centres in this group attained the 100 points to be eligible, many came close though!!

Group 3

North Canterbury

Thanks for all the effort in taking part in this competition it has resulted in an additional 292 TelestraClear/SeniorNet registrations which in turn helps to fund the SeniorNet Federation.

The Federation is most grateful to TelstraClear for their support and funding of our Federation.

June 2009

NZGA/Age Concern NZ Conference 2009.

The conference of the New Zealand Association of Gerontology and age Concern will be held at the Wellington Convention Centre 7th – 9th October 2009. The theme for the conference is ‘Living in an Ageing Society’.

Registration open now visit www.confer.co.nz/ageing2009

June 2009

SeniorNet members save on travel insurance.

Thinking of Travel? Take us with you.

SeniorNet members now save at least 44%* on travel insurance.

Click here to buy online today - it's fast, easy and secure!

AIG Travel Insurance is your ultimate travel companion to protect you and your family on your next trip.

Product Benefits include:

• Unlimited cover for overseas medical & hospital expenses
• Financial Default cover
• Stolen & lost luggage
• Trip cancellations and flight delays
• Accidental Death
• Rental Vehicle Excess and much more,
• 24/7 Access to AIG Travel Assist™, for emergency assistance

So wherever you're going on your next holiday, take us with you.

*The savings are calculated by comparing with AIG New Zealand's full price premiums as detailed at www.aigtravel.co.nz current at date 15 April, 2008. Savings do not apply to pre-existing medical assessment premium. Insurance products and services are provided by American Home Assurance Company (New Zealand Branch), trading as AIG New Zealand, incorporated with limited liability in the USA, a member of American International Group, Inc. You should read the Policy Wording and Schedule of Benefits carefully and consider these in light of your personal circumstances prior to making any decision to acquire the product. SeniorNet acts as referrer of AIG New Zealand. 08/01328

June 2009

Social Networking

Socialise is a place to come and socialise online in safe, easy to use surroundings. It's a fun, vibrant website dedicated to keeping things nice and simple! Email facilities are provided and are a simple way to keep in touch one to one. You can add friends, send smiles/kisses/winks to other members and utilise search facilities and who's online lists to socialise as much or as little as you like. Forums are a great place to have your say and some great laughs with other members. Topics are varied and always interesting. Virtual chatrooms give users an area to 'stand' online and have real time conversation in a well moderated relaxed environment. Being able to have a conversation with someone else online, sitting in a café is such a unique thing to do. A lot of people like using the chatrooms to socialise with friends or family overseas. It's one way they can 'be together' and have a free catch up without ticking up toll charges! In the virtual rooms you can sit, drink, dance, smile, lay on the beach and much more. If you would like to meet another Socialise member, you also have the option of inviting them on an outing through the easy to use booking system which is dedicated to keeping things safe for our users. Socialise also has regular meet ups and gatherings for those who are interested in meeting other members in person. These usually consist of having a meal together in a small group, so is a nice non-threatening environment for online users to break the ice. On Socialise there is no pressure or hurry to do anything. You can do as much or as little as you like and there are always moderators around to help you with any queries you may have, so don't be shy to ask for help. Socialise prides itself on being one of the safest online neighbourhoods in New Zealand to login and socialise!

March 2009

Citizenship and Remembrance

Citizenship and Remembrance is a recently published book that deals with NZ World War 2 veterans.

Based on the private archives of the association and the recollections of its members, this book catalogues how the ‘24 men’ fostered and nurtured the loyalty and comradeship they forged while serving overseas in World War 2. Always focused on fundraising for welfare projects, they kept in touch with countless newsletters and social events. This New Zealand style veterans’organisation has served the community with the men organising venues, transport (and beer), while the ladies’committee took charge of teas, lunches, and raffles. Illustrated with photographs, newsletter excerpts, cartoons and oral history it is a glimpse of everyday life in post war New Zealand.

Price: $40 (includes package and postage) - click here to download an order form.

March 2009

Take the Teacher Home

Computer courses for beginners on video CDs.

Computer training at home is made easy by Take the Teacher Home computer tutorials. Click-by-click lessons, covering Windows XP, Internet & Email and Windows Vista.

If you've been to live computer classes, these video CDs complement your teacher's lessons and enable you to practice at your own pace, whilst following along with a teacher on your computer screen. Pictures, mouse actions, big arrows, everything! Each stimulating and enjoyable lesson demonstrates clearly every action you need to do to become confidently computer savvy.

Senior Net members get 10% discount.
You can read more, see a demo and order Take the Teacher Home at: www.easycomputing.co.nz.

Please use code no: sennz to get you discount when ordering.

March 2009

Safer in your Home with a Personal Alarm

Have you ever thought how nice it would be to have a personal alarm in your home that provides you with security and peace of mind and at NO cost to you through WINZ ?

Personal alarms are simple to use, enable you to live independently with confidence, provide 24 hours a day, seven days a week service all 365 days a year and enable people to remain and live in their own home amongst familiar and comfortable surroundings thus giving you a quality of life that is happier.

At the push of a button you have access to ambulance, police and fire. We make certain that you always have someone available to talk to, someone who can help with immediate access to all services.

We can discuss your options with WINZ and get you on your way to being safer in your home.

Call Cristina on 0800 660 166