Frequently Asked Questions

At Tech Hub, we see a host of strange issues with technology, but we also encounter very common problems and questions that students, faculty, and staff run into while at Ohio State. Below are some of them:

 

What is the advantage of shopping at Tech Hub? What's the difference between shopping with you and someone like Apple, Costco, etc.?

The main perks of shopping with us are our academic discounts and the convenient location on main campus. We will repair an eligible device regardless of where you purchased it, so no worries if you bought a laptop or iPad from someone else. That being said, we will sell you AppleCare+ just the same as the Apple Store. If you find better deals than our education pricing, that's okay. We are here to be convenient for you!

 

Where are you located on campus? Where can I park?

We are underneath Tuttle Parking Garage, which is paid public parking. If you have the CampusParc "A" pass, you can also park in the Northwest Garage. We are near Knowlton School of Architecture, the Ohio Stadium, and Oxley's by the Numbers. 

 

Do I have to make an appointment?

Nope! We are walk-in only. Stop by whenever you have a chance and we are happy to assist you!

 

I need help with ______. Where do I go?

There are TONS of resources on campus for a variety of needs. A non-exhaustive list includes:

  • BuckeyeBar in Thompson Library can help with OSU tech support, such as problems with Duo Mobile, CarmenCanvas, eduroam Wi-Fi, and more.
  • Digital Unions provide 3D printing, recording spaces, and general computer labs on campus.
  • STLP (Student Technology Loan Program) offers loan devices at no cost to students with financial need. They are currently based in Enarson Classroom Building.
  • ResNet handles internet connectivity in all of the residence halls on campus, including for smart devices that have a separate Wi-Fi network.
  • Tech Hub is an Apple Authorized Campus Store and Authorized Service Provider. We additionally service Dell laptops, sell miscellaneous accessories, and can provide basic troubleshooting. We're also a cool place to eat lunch, study, play board games, and take a break between classes.

 

How do I check if my Apple device has AppleCare+? Can I repair my device without AppleCare+?

We service MacBooks, iPads, and iPad accessories (pencils and keyboards) under AppleCare+. We can also handle out of warranty repairs, but they are generally very expensive! An iPad or iPad accessory can essentially not be repaired without AC+ due to the cost being about the cost of a new device. You can verify your AppleCare+ coverage here.

 

Do you sell used or refurbished laptops?

No, we only sell new devices. We occasionally have a couple open box products that have been returned for reasons unrelated to functionality, which are discounted 10% from our regular price. We also have some leftover stock of discontinued devices that are discounted. You still need to be an OSU student, faculty, or staff member to purchase these devices. Additionally, these products are usually not able to have a protection plan added to them.

 

Do you accept trade-ins?

Unfortunately, we are unable to take any devices for trade-in.

 

What antivirus or anti-malware software do you recommend?

Our professional recommendation is a free anti-malware program called MalwareBytes. There is a paid version that will auto scan your device for malicious files, but all you need is the free version that you can use to scan your laptop if you believe you have a virus. We strongly oppose paying for antivirus software like Norton and McAfee because they frequently slow down your computer and send unwanted pop-up notifications.

 

Do you carry cases and screen protectors?

We have neoprene sleeves for laptops in sizes ranging from 13 inches to 15 inches. They are meant to be used as an extra layer of protection (mainly from liquid damage). We also carry the keyboard cases for iPads that act as a folio cover for the screen and back. We do not carry any hard shell cases or screen protectors for electronic devices.

 

My iPad is frozen or not turning on. What do I do?

Forcing the device to restart is often an easy solution to this. If you have an iPad without a home button: tap volume up, tap volume down, and hold the power button until the Apple logo appears. If your iPad has a home button: hold the home button and power button simultaneously until the Apple logo appears.