Taking it to the Shop

During the course of a computer’s life it will at some point be in the need of repair. Computers are like cars in the sense that the more that you use them the sooner that they will need repair, but also in the sense that if you take care of them then they will take care of you. This week we are going to take a look at what your options are when it comes repairing your computer.
One important thing to be cognizant of from the outset is if your system is still under warranty. If it is then you have a few extra options. The first being that you may be able to resolve your computer woes calling a technical support help line established by the systems manufacturer or reseller. If this option is not available or fails to correct your ills, then you may be able to have your computer repaired or replaced at the manufacturers expense. To find out if you have these options you should read the computer’s purchase information. If you can not find your purchase information, you may be able to contact the seller and they may have your warranty information. You should be able to find their contact information on the computer’s container, the system itself, or on the seller’s website.
If you no longer have a warranty then your option would be to have it repaired by a third party vendor. I know everyone knows a guy or gal who is good with computers, but sometimes it is better to let a professional fix it. It is not uncommon for computer problems to become more severe and costly because the system was not sent to a professional for repair first.
Before taking your computer to a repair shop there are a few questions that you should ask them first.
Is there a fee to perform a diagnostic?
Is their work guaranteed in writing?
What is the fee for coming onsite?
Is there a travel time charge?
Are the technicians “A plus” certified?
These questions should be asked whether you are taking your computer to a large chain or a local business. You also want to check with the Better Business Bureau to see if the business has had any complaints. A recommendation from co-workers, family, and friends is also a good way to locate quality shops. Looking in the yellow pages for the biggest ad is not necessarily the way to locate quality shops. Quality computer repair can be found at large and small shops alike, but I have found that smaller repair businesses usually are more customer friendly and accommodating. The last things to keep in mind are to be as specific as possible when describing your problem, what you want fixed, and also to get several estimates before choosing a repair shop. Here are some local computer shops to get you started.
www.datadoctors.com
www.sws-electronics.com
www.ultramedia.net