BUHS Reminds Students to Use Chromebooks Correctly

Bishop Union High School is having quite a problem with students charging accessory devices (phones, pads, Bluetooth accessories, etc.) using the USB ports on their Chromebooks (which Chromebooks don’t support). The practice can cause power problems, and not just the need simply for new batteries. It seems charging from the CB’s can fry a chip on the motherboard (resulting in the need for a completely new motherboard). As damaging the CB’s like this constitutes a violation, and, as it could result in a charge of $3-400 on their school account, my guess is that most students might like to change their habits.

Here are some questions and answers from Mr. Thornburg.

Q.) How did this become a problem?

A.) The Chromebooks where never intended to be consumer machines, it is not supposed to be your average laptop. They were never intended for that kind of use, when you treat them like consumer machines that is when the problem started

Q.)  How many times has this happened before?

A.) The school has around 600 machines and at least 100 has been effected, this is due to the  fried circuits.

Q.) Can this issue be improved?

A.) Yeah, sure it can be improved, we are getting the word out.

Q.) Do you plan on upgrading the Chromebooks in the future?

A.) Yes we do plan on upgrading Chromebooks in the future, as of now we are taking Chromebooks over spring break for warranty.  We are retiring Chromebooks at each class, freshman’s will receive brand new Chromebooks.

Q.) What is the shelf life for the Chromebooks?

A.) No one knows, I would say around 3-4 years.