As of today, I am officially no longer available for computer repair or consulting. I’ve been making a strong move into the web and graphic design field and I just don’t have the time to juggle the old with the new. I’ve got to move forward.

If you need any technical help in the future, let me make a few recommendations:

1. Do NOT go to the Geek Squad. They are overpriced and mostly hire kids straight out of high school with an A+ Certification at best. That’s not to say that the employees don’t know what they’re doing or won’t do a good job. They do and they will but they only see a fraction of the price you’re going to pay for repair and you’ll pay way more than they’re worth.
2. Ask around. More often than not, there is a someone you know who does this kind of work for a living and could use the extra cash. They will also typically charge about half as much as retail repair shops like Geek Squad or CompUSA. Check out Craigslist or mention that you need some work done within your circle of friends. Trust me, someone knows a nerd that needs some work.
3. Do NOT expect free service or advice just because it’s a family member or friend.  One of the things I’m really looking forward to putting behind me is the near constant onslaught of people wanting me to fix their computers for free! Really? You’d gladly pay a stranger but expect me to do it for free because we’ve spent Thanksgiving together? I really don’t mind helping people out unless it’s expected. Just keep in mind that this kind of work takes talent and time and both of those are worth something. I’m a big fan of the bartered lunch, a bag of my favorite candy, or homemade cookies, but that’s me.  The point is to show appreciation beyond a thank you.
4. Stop being a cheap skate. It just may be time to buy a new computer. Don’t hand off your 10 year Compaq Presario to a technician and expect a miracle. The average computer life span is between 3-5 years. Most manufacturers won’t even offer a warranty past 3 years because they know it’s bad business. Computers aren’t built to last forever. So if you’re having problems, maybe it’s because it’s time to invest in a new rig.

So that’s it. I’m pulling the plug. If you’d like some work done on your website or need a new logo or graphic work then shoot me an email.

Thanks everyone!