PC repair services

Posted on 14 Jul 2008 at 12:13

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All in all, this is quite a mix of problems, but while the software issues are relatively trivial, the hard disk problem is potentially more serious. Essentially there are three problems with the laptop: Windows Update is broken; Windows is infected with some spyware; and there is a hardware problem relating to the hard disk.

The Windows Update problem is caused either by a corrupt Internet Explorer cache or local Windows Update data folder, and while the fix is far from obvious, a link on the Windows Update error page leads directly to a solution (http://tinyurl.com/3gu2qn).

Similarly the spyware, while somewhat insidious, is easily removed. The desktop warning appears to provide a link to an online fix, but the "cutting edge anti-spyware solution" offered in this instance is simply a scam to empty your wallet and install more malware.

However, the hard disk problem is harder to address. The drive itself is actually in perfect working order and will pass both a SMART test and the manufacturer's (Fujitsu) own quick and comprehensive disk fitness tests. The real problem lies with the IDE cable, which was subtly damaged when the disk was upgraded. The delicate connector that clips into a slot on the motherboard was accidentally bent during the upgrade process, leading to a less-than-perfect connection when the new drive was plugged in.

As a consequence of the cable damage, data can become corrupted when transferred to and from the disk. While Windows can cope most of the time, the corruption can lead to some seemingly random and truly catastrophic disk errors.

To ensure a fair test, the hard disk was imaged using Norton Ghost so that the laptop could be restored to its original, unhappy state once each repair service had worked its magic.

What follows is our customer experience when dealing with each of the four repair companies. We have evaluated them not only on their technical expertise but also on their telephone service, the manners of the engineers, the time taken and the costs.

Author: Julian Prokaza