“For the Price of Fixing my Computer, I Could Buy a New Computer?”
By Jerrold Schiff
 The number one statement every computer technician hears when he mentions that he chargers for his services: “For the price of fixing my computer, I could buy a new computer.” It does not matter if you give a flat rate price or an hourly price. It seems expensive. But what does it really cost to buy a new computer, rather than fix an “old one”? Fixing a computer can cost between $70 and $210. Buying a new computer can cost between $400 and $700 (modestly), add in software and printers, then add hours of setup and cabling. Not to mention lost data and precious time! Let’s say $300? Details!
Step One: Computer selection. While it may seem that there are only 4 or 5 computer manufacturers out there, each computer is differs. CPU speed, hard drive size, amount of memory, and warranties. Add “research time” and “buying time” plus “set up time” to your costs.
Step Two: Software and printers. A computer comes out of the factory “as is”. That means all your programs and printers have to be reloaded. If you have changed operating systems (say from XP to Windows 8), then you may have to buy new programs, or even a new printer. Add software (Microsoft Office is $250), Quickbooks etc. Add a new printer and printer cable.
Step Three: Data. How do you get your data from the “old” or “infected” computer over to your new computer? How do you know that you aren’t copying the virus WITH the data? How do you know which data to transfer, and where it is located on the old computer? How do you set up your email and internet, your routers and passwords?
Step Four: If you have managed all on your own so far, you’ve done well. If you have transferred your data over to the new computer, you’ve done exceptionally well. BUT if you have transferred over the virus that caused the problem in the first place??? You are back to square one.
Hire a computer professional. We are worth it!
About the Author
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| Jerrold Schiff, Schiffkey Consultants Inc.
Apopka, FL 32703
4077722081
Contact Author: request info
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