FAQ
How long will it take you to fix my computer?
What are your rates like?
Why is it when you reinstall Windows I lose all my programs?
I lost my original Windows CD or my computer didn't come with one. Can you still reinstall Windows?
What's the difference between your custom built computers and one I can buy from Dell, Compaq, etc?
How often should I backup my data?
What is a virus and how did it get here?
How can I avoid getting another virus?
What is a motherboard and why are they so important?
Why do hard drives fail?
Why does memory fail?
My computer is very important, can you put a rush on fixing it?
Why are battery backups important?
Q: How long will it take you to fix my computer?
A: Many factors determine for how long we may have your computer. Among these factors is how many computers we already have that are in front of you in "line" as well as the severity of your issue and whether special order parts are needed. That said, turn around is typically between 1-3 days.
A: Our standard bench fee is $45 and includes basic diagnostics. More advanced work is billed at $99/hour and our laptop tear down fee is a flat $85.
Q: My computer is very important, can you put a rush on fixing it?
A: For an extra $50, we can/will move your computer to the front of the line and get it fixed as quickly as possible.
Q: Why is it when you reinstall Windows I lose all my programs?
A: Programs are not simply the single executable file that you click to open them. They are made up of many files as well as some entries in the system's registry that allow the files to talk to each other. When the program is initially installed, all these entries are made allowing the program to work. Therefore when we reinstall Windows, it is imperative that you have the installation media for those programs you wish to have back.
Q: I lost my original Windows CD or my computer didn't come with one. Can you still reinstall Windows?
A: Yes. As long as your computer has a genuine Windows label with an associated key (25 Hexidecimal characters), we can reinstall your Operating System without a problem.
Q: What's the difference between your custom built computers and one I can buy from Dell, Compaq, etc?
A: First and foremost, we offer a 3 year warranty standard on all our computers. The other major brands only offer 1 year from the factory, a 3 year extended warranty will cost you something north of another $100. Secondly, because we offer a 3 year warranty, we are using only the best individual components. We don't want your computer to break any more than you do.
Q: How often should I backup my data?
A: As often as you ask this question. You can't possibly back your data up too often. If it's important to you, you should have a backup. This includes documents, pictures, Quicken data, etc.
Q: What is a virus and how did it get here?
A: Viruses come in many shapes and sizes now. There are "viruses", "spyware" and "malware". All are malicious and annoying and have many things in common. They are all extremely annoying, can slow down your computer and can also destroy data, harvest personal information or worse. Usually they are relatively harmless, but it is important to have a good Spyware program (like SuperAntiSpyware), a good Malware program (like Malwarebytes) and a good anti-virus (like Avast).
Q: How can I avoid getting another virus?
A: PAY ATTENTION! When you're surfing the web, be conscious of the links you click. The most frequent reason people get infected is by opening up email attachments or clicking on a "bad" link on the internet.
Q: What is a motherboard and why are they so important?
A: A motherboard is the main board in your computer that everything else hooks into. Network, video, memory, processor - they all plug directly into your motherboard. When your motherboard goes bad, your computer usually won't start up, or if it does it is extremely slow and throws you multiple errors.
A: Hard drives fail because of heat buildup, shock, excessive force or other similar event. Hard drives are one of the last remaining parts of the PC that contain moving parts inside. These moving parts make it more vulnerable to heat, wear and related issues. The industry is moving toward SSD's (Solid State Drives) with no moving parts, but they are still far more expensive than their Hard Drive bretheren.
A: Memory usually fails because of electric shock (power spike) or static electricity. Electricity is a computer's best friend and it's worst enemy.
Q: Why are battery backups important?
A: Battery backups do two things. 1. Protect from surge. 2. Provide a little power for short power outages (less than 5 minutes). Surge suppression is very important and can literally save your computer's life in the event of a power surge/spike. The power backup helps because when your computer shuts down abnormally, it is unable to go through its complete shut down process which can contribute to file fragmentation, loss of data and even component failure!