General Questions

Protect your home computer!
Did you know that surge protectors wear out over time? Your surge protector will wear out over time as it absorbs power spikes. We strongly suggest that you purchase a new surge protector for your home computer every 3 to 4 years.

SVSU provides anti-virus software for faculty, staff and students. SVSU recommends your regularly scan your home micro for spybots and ad-ware. For free downloads see: Free Software Downloads.

Q. Who is elligilble for the Charter cable modem Cardinal-Link discount?
A1. SVSU faculty, adjuncts, staff, students (part-time and full time), alumni and retirees living in the state of Michigan.

A2. SPSD employees living in the state of Michigan.

Q. Does Charter have any restrictions on the use of their Internet service?
A. Yes! See Charter's: Appropriate Use Policy

Q. Where can I contact Charter regarding the Cardinal Link - Discount Cable Modem Service?
A. For customer service issues (loss of service, installation, billing, etc.) Contact Charter at the following direct number:

Business Services  1-800-314-7195

"2" (for business services)

"2" (for Tech Support)

"2" (for high speed internet)

Local Support:  989-746-4328 between 8 am & 5 pm (Monday thru Friday) and ask for ShayLa.

Q. What Cable Modem Services will I receive?

A.

1. Through the Cardinal-Link High Speed Internet Access you will receive a High speed Internet connection at a speed of your choice.
2. You will also receive 3 free "chartermi.net" e-mail accounts and 10 Mb of web space for free.
3. If you had a Charter Cable modem account prior to July 1, 2004 and would now like to activate your e-mail accounts and gain access to your web space, contact the Charter Communications Help Desk at the number posted above.
4. For more details, see: Costs & Speeds

Q. What does the modem cost? 

A. The rental cost of the modem is included in the monthly service charge. This also means the modem is owned by Charter and Charter is responsible for such things as lightening damage .

Q. If I do not have Charter service for television, can I get cable installation for just the cable modem service? 

A. Yes!!!

Q. How can I find out if Charter Communications can provide cable service to my home? 

A. Contact Charter Communications at DLGLDMIBayCityCCOTb@chartermi.com (or at the phone numbers posted above, but e-mail is preferred). Note: that no matter where you live use these one phone numbers, do not call your local Charter office.

Q. What happens if I order service and it isn't available at my home ? 

A. Charter will acknowledge your order and hold it. They will contact you as soon as service can be installed at your home.

Q. If I do not have Charter cable installed into my home, what is the cost? 

A.

1. Currently (as of 4/30/01), the physical installation of the cable to your house is free.
2. You will, however be charged $49.95 for installation of the cable modem, Network card (if needed), and activation of the cable modem service. You can, in most cases avoid this cost if you are willing to self-install the cable modem, network card, and any needed drivers.

3. Charter often runs installation specials so always ask Charter if there are any installation specials available.

Q. Can I have more than 1 PC at home online at the same time? 

A. Yes! You have Two Options:

1. You can "rent" additional IP addresses from Charter at $9.95 per month.
   
   OR
2. You can purchase a home "router" from a local electronics store such as Radio Shack or Best Buy. The only requirement is that the unit provides "IPSEC Pass-thru". four-port routers for the home that provide IPSEC pass-thru, and firewall services currently cost around $50.

Q. Will Macintosh Computers work with the Cable Modem? 

A. Yes!! If you have any questions contact the SVSU Support Center at 989.964.4225 or the SPSD Help Desk at 989.399.6750.

Q. How do I get support for my Charter Cable Modem Service? 

A. Contact the Charter Communications Help Desk at the numbers posted above. The Charter Help Desk is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Q. How fast is my current connection? 

A. Try a Speed Test .