Tips for Before You Call

Some of these tips are very basic, but they crop up all the time.

The computer (or printer or ...) won't turn on

  • Check that power is turned on and the cord connects firmly into the computer. Especially check the on / off button of the power strip, if you're using a one.
  • Where necessary, check cables between components. Sometime a GENTLE 'waggle' can help the connection, if nothing else it's a great diagnostic check.

The computer turns on, starts to boot OK, but then just turns off

  • Check that the computer or laptop is not overheating.
  • Clean the area where the fan sucks in the cooler air

The computer turns on, starts to boot, possibly successfully, but you hear a 'clicking' sound that's new, from within the computer

  • This is an indication that the internal hard drive is failing, either ....
  • Turn off immediately and seek help.
  • If your backup is not up to date, try to backup your data and then seek help

The computer turns on but beeps and nothing is seen on the monitor.

  • Check that the keyboard (and mouse) is connected firmly.
  • Check that the keyboard does not have a sticky key

The monitor is blank

  • First check for power. There will usually be a small, probably green, light somewhere on the case indicating power.
  • If you have a second computer, possibly a laptop, try switching monitors.

You've checked the basics

  • Do you have the disks (CDs or DVDs) for the computer and or peripherals - if not don't worry, we can get these pretty well all the time, but it can take longer and be a little more expensive.