what u must know

the majority of computer repair shops are staffed with either incompetents or out-right crooks. (See: PC-World). Much like the old T.V. repair business or some auto repair places that are run by folks that know little more than you about TVs or cars, or if they are technically inclined, they may realize their customers are easily fooled into paying for repairs they don't need.

As PC-World found out in their recent undercover study of both nationwide computer service centers and small "Mom and Pop" computer shops, that somewhere around 80 or 90 percent of them either couldn't fix the problem or sold them hundreds of dollars of unneeded parts. That's eight or nine out of ten!

In my opinion, incompetents should get out of the business and the crooks should be drawn and quartered. After spending over 25 years designing, building and servicing all types of computer systems, I have absolutely NO respect for those who would degrade my profession. See: Watch Out! for a sad but so typical story.

How Can I Tell the GoodFrom the Bad?
That's the sixty-four-thousand dollar question! Just because a computer shop looks sharp and well-organized does not insure they are competent and honest. Conversely a dark messy shop doesn't necessarily indicate any lack of talent or skills.

One of the best ways to find quality computer service is to ask around, and one of the best places to ask is the local ISP "Internet Service Provider". ISPs deal with hundreds of service needs, from their customers, each year. Ask the local ISP if they sell or service computers! If they do, their advice may be somewhat suspect. If they don't, you can bet they know the best computer repair places around. If you are a customer of a local ISP give them a call, if not, check your yellow pages and call two or three local Internet Service Providers.

A few more things that may help you find a competent technician to entrust with your computer:
Ask them how long they have been in business. 10 years is a good start!
Check with the Better Business Bureau about a particular computer business.
Make sure you receive ALL your old parts back.
You may even want to put a distinctive mark on some of the more expensive components inside your computer, such as; the hard drive, the main board, memory, video card, etc. (Please note: Before you open your computer see Under the Hood).

Ask for a written statement about how they will treat your computer and it's data. (See our following policy statement, as an example.)

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