Saturday, March 1, 2008

Brother, can you spare a computer chip?

I got word from the Geek Squad this week that the James Family Super Computer's hard drive is melting (my term, certainly not theirs). I called Dell to see if it is still under warranty; the technical support agent's name I think was Bubba. I don't think Bubba was from around here. At any rate, it sounds like I can either ship the system to Antartica for repairs on Dell's dime (at least a month's time without the computer) or they will ship me the hard drive and "talk" me through the repair/installation of the hard drive myself.


Mamma Deacon hasn't stopped laughing at that one. We are reminded of the television commercial about the guy sitting at his kitchen table with a dull butterknife at his chest talking on the phone with the doctor who is instructing him on how to perform the necessary surgery. If this "repair" takes more than a hammer, two flat head screwdrivers, and a ratchet set with several pieces missing, I am in trouble. Holding tools while someone else does the repair work has never been a problem---actually using them myself in constructive ways does not seem to be my gift. My guess is my repair of the computer is likely the last option.

If it becomes viable, tickets to view the event will be sold to offset the cost of the year of psychotherapy I will need after the deed is finished.

2 comments:

Dr. Tony said...

Joe,
It is not as bad as it sounds. I had the same thing happen to me last year and the replacement of the hard drive was very simple.

HOWEVER, before you do that:
1 - Make sure that you have all the files that you have created and don't want to lose. You did back up your files, didn't you?

2- Make sure that you have all the appropriate installation disks that came with the computer when you purchased it. The hard drive that you get will not be formatted so you have to do that. You will be able to restore the operating system without too much trouble (but with several hours set aside)if you have those OEM disks.

The restoration process will take you back to where you were when you bought the computer. Any changes or updates will have to be made as you work through the process.

It is a daunting task but one that can be overcome.

On the other hand, if you don't have the OEM disks, you are going to have lots and lots of problems.

Good Luck,
Tony Mitchell

Sudie said...

I would like to buy 2 tickets, please.

Yes, please back up first