Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Hard Drive Failure is Common
It could happen like this: You turn on your computer and you see “A disk read error occurred Press Ctrl + Alt + Del to restart”. You try to restart it and you just get the same error. This may indicate your hard drive has suddenly failed. The message can vary but the result is the same, your computer will not boot.
The hard drive is the heart of your computer, it holds every program and file in your computer. Hard drives have spinning platters and a read head similar to how a record player has a record with its arm and a needle. These moving parts are very delicate and when something goes wrong, your data can be lost in an instant.
Do not use system restore disks. Reinstalling Windows does NOT fix this. Do not try to fix it yourself because you have a higher risk of losing your precious photos, documents, and music.
If your computer is having any of these symptoms, take it to a computer professional and have them straighten it out. A proper diagnosis is required. The cause may be other than a failed hard drive. If your drive has failed, we can replace it and have your computer running again. Repairing computers is our specialty. Our normal service area is Pompano Beach in Festival Flea Market Mall.
Contact Computer Services Tech for an appointment.
Windows 10 – Why you should upgrade, and soon!
Windows 10 was released July 29th, 2015 as a free upgrade to anyone with a qualifying device. As of May 5th, 2016 Windows 10 was on 300 Million active devices. Why should you upgrade? First and foremost, your device will be more secure. It will work better with other security programs and enhance your overall protection. Your software will also run at a more efficient rate, making time on the device more productive and enjoyable. It is more customizable than older versions of Windows and has more user aid options. Lastly it is not overwhelming for even the most novice computer user.
With the first anniversary of the Windows 10 release comes new information. As of July 29th, 2016 the Windows 10 upgrade will no longer be free. New devices purchased up to and after that date will come with Windows 10 as the standard operating system, however, if you have an existing device that is not yet upgraded we recommend doing so before the cutoff date.
We have experienced that the majority of people who perform the upgrade on their own find issues with the system after it is complete. This is not a user error or a downfall of the Windows 10 system. It is more that the upgrade its self does not preform the proper tasks to update completely. There are many programs and settings that need to be optimized in order to complete the update process and not have problems. We recommend going to local and trustworthy computer repair shops to have them install and optimize the update process.
Computer Services Tech is happy and eager to assist its customers in completing this exciting new change.
Is my computer eligible?
The only requirements are that a) your device is compatible, and b) you’re running genuine Windows 7 Service Pack 1 (SP1) or Windows 8.1 (Update). You can only upgrade to Windows 10 free if you do so within 12 months of release (that’s July 29th 2016). Upgrade outside this period and you will have to pay the standard retail costs: $119.99 for "Windows 10 Home" and $199.99 for "Windows 10 Pro".
Windows 10 was released July 29th, 2015 as a free upgrade to anyone with a qualifying device. As of May 5th, 2016 Windows 10 was on 300 Million active devices. Why should you upgrade? First and foremost, your device will be more secure. It will work better with other security programs and enhance your overall protection. Your software will also run at a more efficient rate, making time on the device more productive and enjoyable. It is more customizable than older versions of Windows and has more user aid options. Lastly it is not overwhelming for even the most novice computer user.
With the first anniversary of the Windows 10 release comes new information. As of July 29th, 2016 the Windows 10 upgrade will no longer be free. New devices purchased up to and after that date will come with Windows 10 as the standard operating system, however, if you have an existing device that is not yet upgraded we recommend doing so before the cutoff date.
We have experienced that the majority of people who perform the upgrade on their own find issues with the system after it is complete. This is not a user error or a downfall of the Windows 10 system. It is more that the upgrade its self does not preform the proper tasks to update completely. There are many programs and settings that need to be optimized in order to complete the update process and not have problems. We recommend going to local and trustworthy computer repair shops to have them install and optimize the update process.
Computer Services Tech is happy and eager to assist its customers in completing this exciting new change.
Is my computer eligible?
The only requirements are that a) your device is compatible, and b) you’re running genuine Windows 7 Service Pack 1 (SP1) or Windows 8.1 (Update). You can only upgrade to Windows 10 free if you do so within 12 months of release (that’s July 29th 2016). Upgrade outside this period and you will have to pay the standard retail costs: $119.99 for "Windows 10 Home" and $199.99 for "Windows 10 Pro".
What type of Laptop should I buy?
Choosing a laptop is mostly
about the use that you need it for, as well as your financial criteria, of
course. The following information can help you make your choice.
For Entertainment (Music and Movies)
Choose a laptop with a big screen (over 15”) with high definition (preferably 1920×1080) and a HDMI output. It is better to also have a big HDD (over 500GB) as well as a Blu-ray player.
For Carrying in a Long Period of Time
Choose a laptop with a small screen(up to 14”), light (less than 2 kilos) and with a big battery span (at least 5 hours). If you want it mainly for getting your emails and go online, then a netbook would be a better solution, as netbooks have a slower processor and smaller memory but they are cheaper.
For Video-Image Editing and Games
Choose a laptop with a big screen (over 15”) with a big screen resolution, a strong processor (e.g. i7), efficient memory (4GB and more) and a significantly big HDD capacity. Also, the screen card should have an independent memory.
For Entertainment (Music and Movies)
Choose a laptop with a big screen (over 15”) with high definition (preferably 1920×1080) and a HDMI output. It is better to also have a big HDD (over 500GB) as well as a Blu-ray player.
For Carrying in a Long Period of Time
Choose a laptop with a small screen(up to 14”), light (less than 2 kilos) and with a big battery span (at least 5 hours). If you want it mainly for getting your emails and go online, then a netbook would be a better solution, as netbooks have a slower processor and smaller memory but they are cheaper.
For Video-Image Editing and Games
Choose a laptop with a big screen (over 15”) with a big screen resolution, a strong processor (e.g. i7), efficient memory (4GB and more) and a significantly big HDD capacity. Also, the screen card should have an independent memory.
Friday, November 25, 2016
Computer Repair Services and Prices
All computers will eventually need services and repairs. There are some user services that can be performed by those with average computer knowledge; however, repairs are best left to professional technicians. Indeed, most people do not know that the computer must be opened and physically cleaned at least once per year. Dust collection traps heat inside the computer’s case. Excess heat affects the stable operation of electronic components, and can lead to their ultimate demise.
Some of the more common computer repair service prices are based on hourly technician costs. Typical hourly rates range from fifty dollars to seventy-five dollars per hour. However, after the initial hour, some companies will begin billing at rates based on the closest five or ten minute increment. These rates are further affected by the size of the company hired to perform computer repairs or services. Additionally, some companies offer flat rate charges for various services.
Common Services
Common services include software installation, operating system upgrades, setting up a new PC, network setup, file and data backup/recovery, memory upgrading, upgrading/adding a hard drive or optical drive to the system, installation of computer case fans and processor coolers, video card installation, and physically cleaning the inside of the computer. These services are performed on working computer systems, and will usually take two to three hours. Services such as these will cost around $160.00, depending upon the technician’s hourly rate. Moreover, some service and repair companies will offer a coupon discount for first-time customers, and may even offer promotional discounts at various times.
Common Repairs
The most common repair problems are due to viruses, spyware and electronic maintenance issues like hard drive defragmentation and Windows registry problems. Blue screen errors, printer problems, error messages, internet connectivity issues and computer freeze-ups are also typical repair problems. Electronic maintenance typically takes two to four hours to complete, and can cost from $120.00 to $250.00. Virus and spyware removal costs are dependent upon the seriousness of the infection and the magnitude of the damage they caused to system files and data. Costs can run from $75.00 to more than $300.00 for severe cases. Connectivity issues and error messages can take several hours to fix. Costs for these repairs usually run from $80.00 to $175.00.
Check out our Prices....
Some of the more common computer repair service prices are based on hourly technician costs. Typical hourly rates range from fifty dollars to seventy-five dollars per hour. However, after the initial hour, some companies will begin billing at rates based on the closest five or ten minute increment. These rates are further affected by the size of the company hired to perform computer repairs or services. Additionally, some companies offer flat rate charges for various services.
Common Services
Common services include software installation, operating system upgrades, setting up a new PC, network setup, file and data backup/recovery, memory upgrading, upgrading/adding a hard drive or optical drive to the system, installation of computer case fans and processor coolers, video card installation, and physically cleaning the inside of the computer. These services are performed on working computer systems, and will usually take two to three hours. Services such as these will cost around $160.00, depending upon the technician’s hourly rate. Moreover, some service and repair companies will offer a coupon discount for first-time customers, and may even offer promotional discounts at various times.
Common Repairs
The most common repair problems are due to viruses, spyware and electronic maintenance issues like hard drive defragmentation and Windows registry problems. Blue screen errors, printer problems, error messages, internet connectivity issues and computer freeze-ups are also typical repair problems. Electronic maintenance typically takes two to four hours to complete, and can cost from $120.00 to $250.00. Virus and spyware removal costs are dependent upon the seriousness of the infection and the magnitude of the damage they caused to system files and data. Costs can run from $75.00 to more than $300.00 for severe cases. Connectivity issues and error messages can take several hours to fix. Costs for these repairs usually run from $80.00 to $175.00.
Check out our Prices....
How to recover a deleted file from your Computer
How many times have you realized that you have accidentally erased a critical file from your computer? Well, there is good news, because if you act fast you might be able to recover the file.
Step One
Check your recycle bin to see if the file is still there. The Recycle Bin holds files before deleting them, thus permitting you to restore them should you change your mind. To restore a file, open the Recycle Bin, right-click on the file, then select Restore. The file will return to its original position on the hard drive.
Step Two
Stop accessing the drive. If your files cannot be found in the Recycle Bin, save or delete nothing on your computer. You will have better chances of finding the file if you don’t save anything new.
Step Three
Come to our store, we will perform Data Recovery to retrieve the file or multiple files from your hard drive within minutes or longer depending on how large the files are.
Step Four
If your system does not boot up, don't worry.... we'll take your hard drive out from the case, set it up on our enclosure and recover the files.
Step One
Check your recycle bin to see if the file is still there. The Recycle Bin holds files before deleting them, thus permitting you to restore them should you change your mind. To restore a file, open the Recycle Bin, right-click on the file, then select Restore. The file will return to its original position on the hard drive.
Step Two
Stop accessing the drive. If your files cannot be found in the Recycle Bin, save or delete nothing on your computer. You will have better chances of finding the file if you don’t save anything new.
Step Three
Come to our store, we will perform Data Recovery to retrieve the file or multiple files from your hard drive within minutes or longer depending on how large the files are.
Step Four
If your system does not boot up, don't worry.... we'll take your hard drive out from the case, set it up on our enclosure and recover the files.
Windows 10 Update Features
The Windows 10 Anniversary Update is brimming with new features. Explore some of the big ones below.
Cortana—Your digital agent
Cortana—Your digital agent
Cortana is ready to help you in more places in Windows 10, including the lock screen. When your device is locked, you can still check your calendar ("What's my schedule for tomorrow like?") or ask Cortana important questions ("Can you beatbox?").
And forget about writing tasks on your hands just to remember, say, your dad's birthday—create reminders based on location, time, and even people. Cortana can help you remember to wish your dad a happy birthday at a specific time, or remind you to pick up a cake when you're at the grocery store.
Rule the web with Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge has so many updates, we need a list to cover them all:
- Use extensions to personalize and protect your browsing with add-ons like Office Online, Microsoft Translator, and more.
- Enlist Cortana to show you similar image suggestions on Bing searches, or even the lyrics to a music video you're watching.
- Pin individual tabs to the Start screen for easy access.
- If you have a touchscreen device, browse more briskly by swiping left/right to go back/forward to different webpages.
Get creative with Windows Ink
Windows Ink puts the power of Windows in the tip of your tablet pen, enabling you to write on your device just like you do on paper, create sticky notes, draw on a whiteboard, and easily share your analog thoughts in the digital world. Windows Ink is integrated into apps like Maps, OneNote, Microsoft Edge, and Office.
A new Start
The Start menu is the place to find all your apps and programs. Personalize your Start screen to show you the apps, tiles, and layout you need to be your most productive self.
Select the Start 
button, and then Settings > Personalization > Start to tinker with your Start screen and make it yours.
Improved notifications in action center
Action center has moved to a new location in the far right corner of the taskbar, and sports a new look that gives you the power to organize your notifications however you see fit.
You no longer need to open action center to see how many notifications you have—the number on the action center icon shows you how many notifications are waiting for you. Other apps pinned to the taskbar can also show the number of notifications you've missed.
Do more on the lock screen
Cortana isn't the only new feature on the lock screen—you can now play music while your device is locked to control the action from start to stop. Media controls appear at the bottom right corner of the lock screen, along with a picture of the album art from the song currently playing.
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