This is our mini-knowledge base of questions we get asked a lot.  If you have a question and haven’t been able to find an answer elsewhere on the site, try here!

QUESTIONS

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1) Is there anything I should try before I call you?

2) What can I do myself to keep my computer running happily?

3)  Do you come on site and do you charge a call-out fee?

4)  I just want to get a new computer, why should I call you?

5)  When I've got a problem, why wouldn't I get my mate/brother/daughter/etc to fix it for me because they know a bit about computers?

6)  I have a problem that's not exactly computer related but could you still help me?

 

1) Is there anything I should try before I call you?

Sometimes all you need to do is give the computer a chance to fix itself. Turning everything off completely, then turning it all back on again might fix the problem. Turn on all the external devices first, turn the computer back on last and see if the problem recurs. If something won't turn on, check the power cable - at both ends! However, if these simple steps fail to fix the problem then please call, and we’ll come and sort it out for you.

 

2) What can I do myself to keep my computer running happily?

Ensure that you download and apply the latest updates for your operating system on a regular basis. You should also apply updates for common add-on products such as Adobe Reader, Adobe Flash Player, Java, etc.  An anti-virus suite should be installed (yes, even on a Mac) - there is good free software available for non-commercial use and commercial packages are still a lot cheaper than the cost of removing even a single infection. Prevention really is better than cure.

 

3)  Do you come on site and do you charge a call-out fee?

Yes, if a problem can't be resolved remotely then I do indeed come to you.  Like most on site services, I need to charge for travel. The call out fee is a flat rate that includes the first half-hour of on site time, and applies to locations within the Melbourne metropolitan area.  We do also have some regional clients - call me to discuss your needs if you’re outside Melbourne.

 

4)  I just want to get a new computer, why should I call you?

It is very easy to go into a shop and buy a computer. However, it is much harder to buy the right computer.  You could easily be sold one that is far more powerful and expensive than you need, or one that is reasonably priced but missing some vital feature. You may get sold the wrong operating system. Or maybe you would have been better off with a Mac.  Once you have it, you’ll need to work out how to get your files, settings and email off your old computer and onto your new one. I help you make a purchase that is right for your needs and budget, and then get you up and running on it with a smooth transition.

 

5)  When I've got a problem, why wouldn't I get my mate/brother/daughter/etc to fix it for me because they know a bit about computers?

Would you let someone who ‘knows a bit about it’  fix your brakes, or repair your fridge?  While they may have the best of intentions, if they don’t have the right tools and experience, their efforts can make the situation worse, and remedying it far more complex and expensive.  However, if you've already gone down this path and things have gone badly, it's not too late to call me to salvage the situation.

 

6)  I have a problem that's not exactly computer related but could you still help me?

I have helped clients with a myriad of issues, all involving technology but not necessarily computers. Digital televisions, iPods, and mobile phones are but a few examples. Give me a call and we can discuss the problem and see if I can be of any help.