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| Everyday Tips from the ComputerMom |
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Well, at least the sun is still shining. Welcome to social distancing April - the world is on hold, and we are each self isolating in our own little space. A very different world from just a month ago.
I am still working to keep your systems running. As a tech support specialist, I'm considered an essential worker. However, although I can make emergency house calls (in gloves and a mask), I have moved most of my business to remote support, the topic of my first article, and drop off services.
With so many people working from home, there are shortages of equipment and delayed shipping, so my next article discusses some shopping strategies in this new normal. I end this issue with another Facebook roundup, Covid-19 specific.
Stay well, everybody. This too shall pass.
Regards,
Julie Marto
PS - New drop off procedure at my house - Leave your system at my door, and ring the bell. I will wait until you are back in your car to pick up the system. All computers will be sanitized with an alcohol based solution, and I am using my own mouse and keyboard, even on laptops.
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 Announcing Remote Support
As promised in last month's newsletter, I am now offering remote support services for both PC and Mac. If you can connect to the internet, I can most likely fix your problem remotely.
In order to initiate a remote session, you will need to download and run a small program called Splashtop SOS. The link to download the program can be found on this page on my website, or I can email it to you. I can talk you through the download and installation process if necessary, or I can email a document to you with detailed instructions for different browsers.
Some examples of issues I can solve remotely include:
- pop-up and adware remediation
- virus/malware removal
- general system troubleshooting and optimization
- email setup and troubleshooting
- software installation and troubleshooting
- printer, webcam, and other peripheral problems
- backup problems
- operating system and driver updates
- new system installation and set up
My remote services are very similar to my on-site services - they are one-on-one sessions by appointment only. I charge by the hour, and I will remain on the phone with you throughout the session. After the session I will send you a bill via Paypal Business Services - you can pay me by credit card, or mail me a check.
Since I don't have to travel between clients, I am able to provide same day services in most cases. So please give me a call if you are having any issues! |
 Home Office Upgrade Options
With so many people working from, and schooling from, home, there's been a real tech supply crunch. With Mom, Dad, and kids competing for the household computers, older systems are being given serious use for the first time in a while, and found lacking. New computers, monitors, and webcams are sold out locally and online, and Amazon has eliminated prime shipping for tech items, some of which show a
delivery date over a month out. So, what should you do if your home tech just isn't cutting it?
First of all, I am still doing
drop off services. I know I harp on it, but
nothing improves an old computer like an SSD upgrade. Additionally, I can still upgrade Windows 7 systems to Windows 10, and most of them will run it just fine. So, before deciding to replace an older system, give me a call to evaluate your old computer. I'll let you know if it's worth upgrading and keeping it in service for a while longer. I keep a selection of different sized SSD's in stock, and since I am making very few house calls, I can offer a 24 hour turnaround in almost every case.
But what if you actually need a new system, and fast? Here are some suggestions for you:
- Stores like Staples, Best Buy, Costco, and Microcenter are still open, offering free shipping, and sidewalk pickup. Pickings can be slim, but they do replenish their stock. If you need a new system in a hurry, your quickest option is to search local inventory and buy on-line for pickup at the store. Expanding your search to multiple local stores increases the chance you will find a suitable product, and you should check for open box and floor models as well.
- Amazon may be pushing deliveries out a month, but there are other online electronics retailers that still offer quick delivery. BH Photo offers free 2 day delivery to Massachusetts, and has a great selection of electronics to choose from. Adorama Camera's free shipping states 7-10 business days, but my experience is that items arrive in just a couple of days as well.
- If you need a Mac, iPhone or iPad, Apple has closed all its stores but is offering free shipping on all products. You want to make sure to buy a standard configuration, and should expect to receive it within a week.
- It can be difficult to navigate the online options at Dell, and every configuration seems to have a different delivery date. However, the Dell Outlet only lists items that are in stock. Again, you can expect delivery from the Outlet in a week or less.
As always, if you have any configuration or other questions about a potential purchase, just give me a call or send me an email. And I am happy to set up your new system for you, either as a drop off system migration, or via remote support.
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 Facebook Roundup
With so much going on in the news, I posted more than I usually do on my Facebook page this month. For those of you who don't follow me on Facebook, here are some of the stories I shared.
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