Things to Try Before You Call for Computer Service

This article is not an endorsement for "do-it-yourself" computer repair. If you are unclear or unsure about the nature of a technical problem, take the safe route and call the experts. The ramifications of "fiddling" with your computer can be severe. The advice provided in this article is just that - advice.

• Fix #1: Reboot

  Your computer is constantly sending bits of data back and forth between its devices - between hard disks and RAM, CD-ROMs, printers, disk drives, the monitor, and so on. Eventually, a time will come when the data sent from one point will not match what is expected at the other point. Your computer may not be able to make sense of this discrepancy and decide to shut down the trouble-making program or return an error about the device you are trying to use. Although they try to be, computers are not perfect. They all hiccup from time to time.

  In many cases, when that annoying "general protection fault," "illegal operation," or "unable to print to the specified port" message appears, you can correct the problem by simply shutting down the computer and rebooting. Rebooting allows your computer to reset and remove itself from the trap into which it has fallen. You should always save your work whenever possible, or be willing to sacrifice your data.

  Rebooting should only be used to correct infrequent problems. If you notice that your word-processing program always crashes when you save documents or that your network connection drops out several times a day, the problem is chronic and demands the attention of Technical Support staff.
  
  

• Fix #2: An Ounce of Prevention

  Two common sources for technical problems are virus infection and hard drive errors. There are several software programs available on the market that will scan your computer and report possible infection, allowing you to remove the virus before it can do damage. These utilities will also monitor Internet downloads and files on diskette, catching infected files before you access them. Check out our 'Virus Information' link on the right side of this page for further information. One drawback to running anti-virus software in the background is that it may interfere with some legitimate computer activities.

  There are utility programs available that will analyze your computer and give you a fitness report. These programs may find physical damage and data corruption, repair and recover damaged files, or optimize the computer's use of your hard drive.

  Of course, you should ALWAYS back up your data to a safe diskette. You never know when you'll need it, but eventually, the time will come.
  
  

• Fix #3: Know Your PC's Limitations

  The newest programs available for your PC, from office productivity to games, often have one common element: resource greed. The latest version of any program invariably requires more memory, hard drive space, and processing power than its previous version. The demands of that new software you installed may be too great for the hardware. The system requirements printed on software packaging should be treated as bare minimums. The chances for better performance and error-free operation improve with an upgraded or a newer, more powerful PC.

Knowledge is Power: What You Should Know Before Calling

You're stumped. There is no obvious reason for the problem you are experiencing. Like it or not, you will have to call Technical Support. Before you pick up the phone, be sure you know the following:

• Error messages. The defaulting program or operating system will almost always provide an error message to "explain" the problem you are encountering. It is not important that YOU understand this jargon, but be sure to write the error message down EXACTLY as it appears on the screen. This message will provide the technician with important clues as to the nature of the problem.
• Know the circumstances. What were you doing when the problem occurred? You should be able to tell the technician what programs were running and what activity you were performing at the time of the error. You should also let the technician know if this is a recurring problem. Also, let the technician know if you have changed anything recently in your computer.
• Know your equipment. The operating system, amount of memory, processor type, and amount of free disk space of your computer may all be factors in causing the problem. Have as much of this information as possible on hand.
• Try not to speculate. It is tempting to try and diagnose the problem yourself, but this can often mislead the technician and turn a simple problem into a baffling mystery. Providing only the facts is the best policy.

Conclusion

You don't have to be a computer expert to get expert help. By following these general guidelines, you will reduce the frustration associated with calling for service. By making the tech's job easier, you allow them to do their job and they'll reach a resolution that much faster. And since you have to pay for most technical support, having the information BEFORE you call will save you time and money.

Here is another great 'How To' source: http://http://reviews.cnet.com

If, after reading this page, you're still having computer problems, please call us at 248-890-8774. We're here to help.