Frequently Asked Questions

My problem still isn't fixed, does that mean I don't have to pay?
Not necessarily.  The best analogy we've ever heard for what our warranty covers was this one:

Computer technicians are similar to doctors.  Based on a given set of symptoms, your doctor theorizes a potential cause and runs tests to check his hypothesis.  Sometimes his first hunch is correct, but other times he may have to run more tests.  Either way, you would still pay him for his time.

Computer issues can be very complex and often involved a number of variables.  Sometimes the troubleshooting process (think diagnosis) has to run through several potentional problems before a solution is found.

In our clients defense, however, if a problem reappears because of faulty workmanship on our part or because the solution was not properly implemented, there is no additional charge if we have to come back to fix it.

Can I [insert task here] myself?
By all means!  Many tasks, like installing software, are very simple and we encourage our clients to boldly go where they haven't gone before (so long as they are comfortable, of course).

But, if it ends up not working out or they would rather have us do it from the get-go, that's fine too.  It's completely up to you.

Is it better to leave my computer on, or shut it down?
The theory is that the amount of energy used to start your computer is greater than the amount of energy it uses to run continuously.

That's not really the whole picture; it's more important to understand that, while modern machines, computers still contain good old fashion mechanics. Hard drives have platters that spin (picture a record player), LCD monitors contain backlights, fans have motors - you get the idea. All these components will burn out a lot faster if they are forced to run 24/7. Plus, shutting down your PC clears your RAM which will help make your computer faster - it is temporary storage after all!

So what's the bottom line? Shut down your computer when you'll be away from it for a while, at least before you turn in for the night.