Justin Drake Carroll Phone FAQs

The Different Types of iPhone Cases Explained

As the prices of phones continue to rise, you need to protect the ones you have now. You can protect your phone and prolong its life by using an iPhone case.

However, there are many iPhone cases in the market, so it can get difficult to choose one for your phone. Well, here’s a guide to tell you more about the types of iPhone cases and the different materials they’re made from.

Materials Used in Different Kinds of iPhone Cases

There are many kinds of material for your iPhones to shield your phone in different ways. Besides aesthetic appeal, iPhone cases are great for durability against heat and dust. Here are the common materials for the iPhone cases:

Plastic

Plastic iPhone cases are the most common, and it’s the first case that comes with your iPhone. This kind of iPhone case is durable and tough, which is great for many situations. If your budget is low, the plastic case is the most affordable option.

You can also customize the design, and it’s easy to hold. Note that the plastic case gives basic and limited protection. The color also can change once you expose the case to too much sunlight.

Leather

The biggest highlight for leather cases is that they age well over time. Unlike the other materials, leather cases become better the more you use it. If you tend to drop your phone, then leather cases are great for anti-slip since they’re quite grippy.

Leather cases have a great texture, which makes it easier to hold onto your phone. However, leather doesn’t offer much protection when you drop your phone.

Wooden

If you want an eco-friendly phone case for your phone, you can try out wooden cases. It comes in either real or faux wood materials. Wooden cases offer more protection, and it’s difficult to get it dirty.

Carbon Fiber

Carbon fiber cases are best for those who want a case with strong protection. This material is stronger than steel, but the cases are very light. The carbon fiber has a headlining trait with a unique look and grippy texture.

The majority of cases built from carbon fiber use military-grade Kevlar fiber. Although carbon fiber is the best choice, it is also the most expensive among the materials for cases.

Silicone

Silicone cases have a soft material made from a mix of petroleum and silicon. This material is soft and flexible, which many people consider it to be safer than plastic. Silicone is quite affordable, and it comes in many styles and colors.

The downside to silicone cases is that it’s not easy to clean. It also can get difficult to place and bring out your phone into your pockets.

Types of iPhone Cases

Many stores cater to iPhone cases, providing a wide range of styles. It adds to your phone’s aesthetic and protection. Some cases can strengthen your reception.

Below are some of the most common types of covers and cases in the market.

Flip Case

Flip cases are the most common cases, and you can find them in carbon fiber or leather. They are available in many colors so that you can match your case to your iPhone’s tones. The greatest downside to flip cases is that they get dirty easily.

It can trap lots of dirt and dust between the screen and the case. If it traps any small, hard objects, it’s likely to damage your screen beyond use.

Hard Core Case

These types of heavy-duty cases can get the job done when it comes to protecting your iPhone as a whole. If you’re looking for a slim phone case, then this type of iPhone case is not for you. Hardcore cases have top-quality materials that give your phone protection in extreme environments.

Transparent Case

Transparent cases help add a layer of protection, and they won’t hide your phone’s natural design. You can choose to have hard or soft transparent covers and plastic or glass cases.

Alternatively, there are bumper cases that are like transparent cases. However, bumper cases have a sheet of rubber surrounding the edges of the case. It helps produce safe sleeves and improves your phone grip.

Wallet Book Case

Your phone case can help you store your things in one place. Wallet cases have flip pockets that serve as a small bag to store things like credit cards. You can also place IDs, money, papers, and other valuables.

Wallet cases come in a variety of materials, from leather to silicone. You can choose those with minimal design or covers the entire phone.

Thin Fits Case

Thin fits are like your regular covers, but they are extremely thin. This type of iPhone case is ideal for you if you have smaller hands or you’re getting used to your large phone. They are thin, light cases that can still protect your phone when it falls.

Stand Case

Stand cases are ideal for those who no longer want to use their hands to hold up their phone. This type of case has small stands on the back to help prop the phone up. You won’t have to buy a phone ring holder to help place your phone in a better viewing angle.

Solar Charging Case

Solar charging cases allow you to charge your phone while on the go. There are solar panels at the back of the case which let you charge the phone as long as you have a light source.

Although they are convenient, it charges your phone at a slower rate compared to wall chargers. This type of case is ideal for those who are always outdoors or love the exposure from sunlight.

Battery Case

If you’re going for a more functional case, then a battery case can help you charge your iPhone while on the go. The battery case can help prolong the battery life of your phone.

It offers protection against any dead batteries, along with most physical damages. They offer plenty of functionality, but battery cases have a higher cost than leather cases.

Find the iPhone Case For You

It’s in your best interest to get a good case for your iPhone to protect it. Choose among the best types of iPhone cases and get the right one for you today!

Are you looking for iPhone repair services? Get in touch with us and check out what we can offer you!

Justin Drake Carroll Phone FAQs

Should You Put Your Phone in Rice After Dropping It in Water?

So you dropped your phone in water, now what? After the panic subsides, your first thought might be to put your phone in rice. The rice hack has been around for many years, but does it work? Well, the answer might surprise you. 

If you’re curious to know whether or not you should put your phone in rice after dropping it in water, continue reading the content below.

What Is the Phone in Rice Trick?

According to the phone in rice hack, you’re supposed to put your phone in rice after it falls into water. The myth is that the rice absorbs the water and dries your phone out without damaging it. Unfortunately, this isn’t true.

In fact, putting a water damaged phone in rice does more harm than good. The reason being is because starch, dust, and small bits of rice can get lost in the crevices of your phone, such as the opening for the headphone jack. 

Don’t Put Your Phone in Rice: Alternative Methods

You might be wondering what to do with your water damaged phone if you shouldn’t put your phone in rice. Well, there are some tricks that’ll help to prevent your phone from becoming ruined:

Take Preventive Measures

Your first order of business after dropping your phone in water is to turn it off as soon as possible. Next, remove your phone case and take out your sim card. Keep the SIM card door open so the water doesn’t stay trapped inside.

Lastly, wipe off the outside of your phone. After you’ve completed these steps, focus on drying your phone out. 

Use Silica Gel Packets

If you want to preserve your water damaged phone, use silica gel packets instead of rice. Silica gel packets are found in many items—like shoes—because they help to absorb moisture.

Luckily, they can do the same for your phone. Place several of them under your phone or on top of it. Let it sit for a few hours while the silica gel packets draw in the water.

Keep in mind that although gel packets absorb water, they may not fix the issue with your phone. Depending on the severity of the damage, it’s best to get your phone fixed by a professional. 

Air Dry

Allowing your phone to air dry might seem too good to be true. But most of the time if you drop your phone in water, allowing it to air dry is an effective method. Put it on a flat surface on top of a paper towel and let it dry out in a warm environment. 

You can also allow a fan to blow over it to help with the drying process. After 24 to 48 hours, turn the phone back on. But avoid switching it on while it’s going through the air-drying process. 

Again, you might not want to risk doing your own repair after you’ve dropped your phone in water. Instead, take it to a professional repair shop, like Fruit Fixed, and we’ll take care of it.

How Does Water Damage Occur?

Water damage usually happens through the open ports of your phone, like the speakers, microphone charging port, and headphone jack. There are some phones that provide covers for the charging docks, but that doesn’t make it waterproof. Even if you find a way to cover all the openings of your phone, water could still get through. 

If you drop your device in the toilet or a puddle of rainwater, the water usually creates the most damage once it infiltrates the internal circuitry. That’s why you should turn your phone off and remove the SIM card when you drop it in water.

Doing so cuts off the power before the water gets into the circuitry. It’s also a good idea to remove the battery too—only if the battery on your phone is removable.

Furthermore, you shouldn’t shake your device or use a hairdryer to draw out the water. Both of these methods could ruin it further by pushing the water deeper inside the phone or causing heat damage. There are also other harmful hack methods for drying a water damaged phone out that you should avoid, like letting your phone sit in the sun. This is a terrible idea, especially since water can create rust on the inside of your phone. 

As you can see, there aren’t too many solutions for fixing water damage at home. But taking your phone to a professional right away can help to save it.

How to Know if Your Phone Is Water Damaged

Sometimes you can drop your phone in water, and it’s fine. Other times it’s completely ruined. However, certain phones will let you know how bad your device is damaged.

Many smartphones have a liquid contact indicator sticker that changes colors when it comes into contact with water. It’s usually located under the SIM card slot or under the battery, depending on what type of smartphone you have. If it shows severely damaged, take it to a technician as soon as possible.

Let Us Fix Your Water Damaged Phone

If you’ve dropped your phone in water, don’t put your phone in rice. Sometimes DIY methods aren’t effective, and there could be more extensive damage to your phone than you realize. So, let our expert Fruit Fixed technicians help out instead.

We provide a variety of repair services for smartphones, tablets, and computers. 

If you have any questions for us, call 804 698-0004 or check out our online repair tool for more information.

Justin Drake Carroll Phone FAQs

How to Clean an iPhone Charging Port: The Complete Guide

Did you know that the average battery life of smartphones is 10-17 hours?

If your iPhone performs lower than these averages, it might be because of a problem with your iPhone charging port. In most cases, it’s dirty and needs some cleaning. But with no prior experience, you might feel scared to do it on your own.

With this guide, you’ll learn how to clean an iPhone charging port. That way, whenever your smartphone charges slowly, you can try this solution to solve the problem. Read on and find out more.

1. Use a Q-Tip Method

iPhone charging ports get dirty as time passes. That’s why you must clean it periodically to avoid building it up. Aside from Q-tips, you can also use paper towels and cotton rounds, rolling its corner to make a gentle, non-abrasive, and dry tip.

To start, you must get a paper or cotton product that you can roll or small enough to go inside the port. After that, put the tip into the port and move it around carefully. Ensure that you get all the edges before reinserting the charger cable into it.

Jiggling the paper around slowly enables you to make debris and dust cling to it. This can also dislodge the same particles, making them fall out of the port. This frees smaller pieces of connections the iPhone needs to charge faster.

Take note, never put chemicals like cleaning supplies onto the material inserted into the port. It’s because your iPhone will get internal damage. With the cheapest iPhone model priced at $399, you can’t afford to make unnecessary replacements.

2. Paper Clip Method

This method is as simple as the Q-tip way, but it carries some risk. After all, you might scrape and damage some of the port’s internal sensitive touchpoints. But as long as you aren’t too aggressive, you’ll be okay.

This method can also use small pins, paperclips, and needles. Put the thin metal inside the port and jiggle it with utmost care. This will help in loosening the dirt and other debris that might lurk within.

Do your best to find where dirt is and get rid of them with the thin metal. If you feel like you knocked it loose, shake your phone to bring it out. Once done, reinsert the cable and see whether it charges faster.

If it doesn’t work, you can learn how to fix a dysfunctional iPhone charging port with our guide here. Do this to ascertain whether it’s the right time to call in the experts.

3. Compressed Air Method

An important consideration when cleaning an iPhone port is the risk of damaging it more by putting in foreign objects. It’s because the port has fragile touchpoints used for attaching the charging cable. If you end up damaging these, the charger might stop working, regardless of how clean it becomes.

That’s why this method is the safest since it’s the only one without the potential of damaging any internal machinery. Start by looking for a can of compressed air and hold it upright.

When doing this, be careful not to put the nozzle inside or too near the port. Once it’s in an optimal position, press the nozzle and use bright, light bursts of air spray. After the last burst, wait for a few moments before putting the charger table into the port again.

An important reminder is to resist blowing into the port using your breath. Hot air coming from your mouth won’t benefit the charging port’s points of contact. It does more harm if you blow sharply into the port.

4. Get Professional Help

If you have the time, you can get out of the house and go to the nearest Apple Store. Experienced employees know the best methods of cleaning the charging port safely. They also have the right tools to accomplish the job, like minuscule vacuum cleaners.

If the Apple Store is too far for your comfort, go to a repair shop or business specializing in mobile gadgets. They also have the tools and expertise necessary to deal with the charging port’s delicate parts. Sometimes, paying a fee for this type of repair is better than replacing the phone because of untoward damage.

How Does Dirt Get In There?

Your iPhone port becomes dirty for many reasons. It often depends on your home and work environment since dust particles and lint can accumulate inside it. A day out in the dust won’t matter, but you’ll notice the impact as months and years go by.

A more obvious reason for this is when you dropped it in the dirt. If you use it even when exposed to dust and mud, your charging port becomes clogged. That’s why you must take precautions and shield your iPhone from these environments.

How Does a Dirty Charging Port Affect Performance?

A dirty port could mean accessories not recognizing your iPhone. Also, the charging cable might not fit as snugly, meaning your iPhone won’t charge as fast. The worst part is when it becomes loose and prevents data transfer from happening smoothly.

What Do You Do When Cleaning Doesn’t Work?

If you still have problems after fixing your charging port, consider replacing it instead. You can either do it by yourself or pay a professional to do it.

The former is riskier since you must look for the right connector for your hardware and a set of tools. If you look at its interior, you’re likely to find lots of screws and other parts that you must remove. That way, you can access the connector’s assembly and replace it.

Learn How to Clean an iPhone Charging Port Today

These are some methods on how to clean an iPhone charging port. Use these tips if you’re confident enough with your skills.

Do you need more cleaning tips for your iPhone? If you do, we encourage you to go through our library of guides today. You can start with this post and learn how to remove sand from your phone.

Justin Drake Carroll Laptops

Why Is My Computer Fan So Loud? The Basics Explained

You’re working late at night and burning the midnight oil to beat a deadline. Then in the middle of your work, a certain noise breaks the silence in your room. Upon investigating, you discover the noise is coming from your PC or Mac computer.

Interestingly, there are many kinds of noises that your computer may generate. Most of the time, these noises say that there is something wrong with your device.

Then you realize that it was your computer fan buzzing. You ask yourself why is my computer fan so loud?

Continue reading below as we break down the mystery behind the loud computer fan and how to deal with it.

Why Is My Computer Fan So Loud? Understanding the Culprit in Macs

A noisy computer that disrupts your concentration at work will make you ask why is my computer fan so loud? Answering this question involves looking at the possible culprits. 

However, it is best to answer it depending on the type of computer you are using. If you are a Mac user, Apple explains that fan noise happens when your Mac or other devices are working intensively. 

This can happen if you’re playing high-end video games. The same thing goes if you’re running certain applications like HD video editors.

In such cases, the fan works double-time to generate additional airflow. In turn, this helps improve the ventilation inside your device. It keeps the computer from overheating.

However, if the fan is creating substantial noise even if the Mac is not working on intensive tasks, then that can be a sign of an underlying issue.

Sometimes, there is something that blocks the vents of your Mac. The vents work to expel hot air and bring in cool air inside the unit. 

Using your Mac on top of certain surfaces can block the vents. These surfaces include your bed, pillow, couch, or even your lap. 

How About Loud Fan Noises in Windows PC?

As for your PC’s loud computer fan, the same thing goes if your desktop or laptop is working intensively. However, the environment where you’re using your PC can also be a culprit.

Do you have pets at home? Do you live in a place where the air is dusty? Then these factors will contribute to the inefficiency of the computer fans. 

Too much buildup of dust and other contaminants can hinder the fan’s performance. 

The same thing goes if your PC or laptop is relatively old. If you cannot remember the last time you cleaned your computer, then it’s likely that several years’ worth of dust is what’s causing the fan to make loud noises.

What You Can Do for Your Mac

Taking your Mac to a trusted computer repair center may be wise, but if you don’t have the luxury of time, you can troubleshoot it first at home. For starters, check the tabs and apps that are currently running on your Mac.

From there, close the ones that you don’t need at the moment. It is common for people to forget to close some apps and tabs that they no longer use. Doing this will lessen the workload of your Mac, as well as its fan.

To check the tabs and apps that you can close, open the Activity Monitor and hit the CPU tab. If you are a Chrome user, expect to see it as one of the leaders in using up a lot of your Mac’s resources.

Since the vents are the main battleground, you need to clear up the sides and back edge of your MacBook. As we mentioned earlier, using your laptop on your bed or pillow can impede proper airflow.

If the fan remains noisy, you may need to open up your Mac and clean the fan. Grab your trusty small Phillips-head screwdriver and unscrew your Mac’s bottom panel.

Thereafter, clean the fan and the vents using compressed air. You can also use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe away the dust and debris that accumulated over the years.

If the noise remains persistent, reset your Mac’s System Management Controller (SMC). Follow these steps for resetting your SMC.

How to Solve Fan Noises in Your PC

In case you’re using a Windows computer, your first line of action is to rule out extensive memory usage. Open your Task Manager and check the current memory consumption. From there, check the apps or programs that are using most of your CPU memory.

The key is to find an app that consumes 100% of your computer’s CPU memory. When you spot such an app, close it immediately. The average load percentage of apps and programs should be between 10% and 20%.

Next, you want to clean your computer’s fan. If you’re not doing it regularly, make it a habit to clean it once a month. Like with the Mac, you want to clean the fan and the vents of your computer. 

As for the cleaning materials, use some compressed air. You also need some isopropyl alcohol and a clean, soft cloth for wiping. Additionally, you may use some lubricant or grease on the fans.

This will help reduce the friction that contributes to the noise that you hear.

Last but not least, you need to cool down your computer. Check the room temperature and keep it between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Also, revisit how you position your laptop or computer. Make sure nothing is blocking the air vents. To increase airflow, try placing a piece of small stick beneath your laptop.

Creating this small elevation will go a long way in improving the air that goes in and out of your laptop.

Let’s Fix Your Faulty Computers, Today

Now that you know the basics behind a loud computer fan, you no longer need to ask “why is my computer fan so loud?” But if the problem persists, then we will gladly extend our assistance.

We offer reliable repairs for Mac, PC, and other devices. Connect with us today and experience top-notch computer repair services. Let’s fix those problems and get your devices up and running again!

Justin Drake Carroll Phone FAQs

This Is How to Remove a SIM Card From an iPhone

Do you own an iPhone? Did you open your device this morning only to find the message that your SIM card is invalid? Or do you experience SIM card errors far too often lately? 

Then you may need a timely SIM card replacement.

Generally, people don’t replace SIM cards. These cards can last several years or even over a decade before they require a replacement. As for the reasons to replace your SIM card, there are a few. 

But the more important concern is to learn how to remove a SIM card properly.

Continue reading below as we break down the steps for removing an iPhone SIM card the right way.

How to Remove a Sim Card From Your iPhone 4 (and Later Models)

As we mentioned earlier, removing a SIM card from your iPhone involves some steps. And if you’re using an iPhone 4 or any later model (including all the X models), here’s how you pull it off.

First, hold your device upright. You want the screen of your iPhone facing you. Next, find the SIM tray of your device.

You will find this near the center of the right edge of your smartphone. In case you have an iPhone 11 or an iPhone X, you will find the tray a little bit closer to the bottom-right edge.

After finding the tray, take the SIM eject tool that came with your device. In case you lost the tool, get a thin paper clip and straighten it. Insert the end of the pin into the hole then gently push it in. 

Continue pushing until the tray ejects. Thereafter, pull the tray outward and lift the SIM card off the try. 

Before installing a new SIM card, look at the orientation of the card. This will help you insert the new one seamlessly and avoid scratching the sensitive part.

Also, there are newer iPhone models like the iPhone 11 and X models that feature dual trays for NANO SIM cards. If you own any of these phones, be sure to remove the correct card from the dual trays.

A pro tip is to look for the name of the carrier on the SIM card. 

And as you insert the new SIM card, keep in mind that it will only fit the tray in one direction. This is because the SIM card comes with a notch. Hence, if you feel some sort of resistance, it means the SIM card is facing the wrong direction or if it’s backward.

Removing the SIM from Original 3GS (and Earlier Models)

If ever you’re using an iPhone 3GS or any of the earlier models, here are the steps to follow. Like with the newer iPhones, hold your smartphone upright with the screen facing you.

Go to the top of the edge of your device and find the SIM tray. You will find this right at the center, beside the Power button.

Get your trusty SIM eject tool or straightened paper clip and insert it into the small hole on the tray. You should find this hole on the tray’s left side. After inserting the end of the clip or eject tool, gently push it inward.

As soon as a portion of the tray comes out, slowly pull it outward. Remove the SIM card gently and place the new SIM on the tray. Again, check the orientation of the SIM card and see if it matches the correct direction of the tray.

Complete the process by pushing the tray into the smartphone. If you feel any resistance, check the orientation of the SIM card and adjust the position accordingly.

Key Considerations When Removing Your SIM Card

As we earlier said, there are a few instances that merit a replacement of your old SIM card. Furthermore, there are also some risks that you may encounter should you decide to discard your old one.

First, there is the risk of damaging your device. If you are someone who doesn’t have a steady hand, you may damage not only the new SIM but also your iPhone. Some people have a heavy hand, which results in forcing the clip or ejecting tool too hard.

When this happens, you risk damaging the tray or other similar components. In turn, you will void the warranty if ever your smartphone is still under one.

Hence, you will have to look for a trusted iPhone repair center to fix the problem.

But if your device is no longer under warranty, then you can proceed with the SIM card replacement without much worry. However, you need to be careful when inserting the ejecting tool. 

Protecting Your SIM With a PIN

Apart from learning how to remove a SIM card, you should also learn how to protect your SIM card using a PIN lock. A SIM PIN lock is an excellent way of protecting your data and account information from unwanted access.

This is different from the usual passwords that you apply to your device. A password can lock your smartphone but it doesn’t protect your SIM.

The same thing goes if you’re using filesystem encryption. Learn how to set up a SIM PIN lock on your device.

Additionally, you need to be extra careful when performing a SIM card lock. There is a risk of botching your SIM card lock if you don’t do it properly. 

It can render your SIM card obsolete. It will also leave your device useless until you insert a new SIM card. But if you do it correctly, it will be one of the wisest decisions you can make with your smartphone.

Let’s Fix Your iPhone, Today!

Learning how to remove a SIM card is a simple yet essential skill any iPhone user should learn. Not only will it ensure the safety of your device, but it will also get you back on track faster when it comes to your iPhone usage. But if you’re dealing with more serious issues with your device, then you came to the right place.

We offer comprehensive iPhone repairs at friendly prices. Get in touch with us and tell us more about your iPhone concerns. Let us look into your device and let’s get it running, ASAP!

Justin Drake Carroll MAC

This Is How to Clean a MacBook Screen the Right Way

Considering that a MacBook can cost upwards of $1500 depending on the kind you buy, it is a great idea to handle your MacBook with the utmost of care. In fact, the most expensive MacBook Pro costs $6,700!! Wow. If you are spending that much on your MacBook, you would want to ensure that it doesn’t break down in a couple of years.

Then how to clean a MacBook screen so that it doesn’t incur any damage, and remains usable for years to come? There are some great tips in this article that will ensure the same.

Getting a MacBook screen repaired is not that expensive, depending on the place you go to. The estimated cost of repairing a MacBook Air screen is about $448 if it’s a straightforward repair with no extraneous factors. It’s always better to be safe rather than sorry though. Read on to see how you can clean your MacBook screen easily and harmlessly. 

1. How to Clean a Macbook Screen 101 – Shut Down Your Computer First

It is important that you shut down (completely) your MacBook while you are cleaning a MacBook screen. Do not put it to sleep or hibernate. Shut it down completely. Also, unplug the power adapter before you start cleaning a MacBook screen. This is important because the moisture from the wipes you are using or the spray cleaner might be able to get into the computer, even if you are careful.

This could cause the screen and the electrical unit of the MacBook to be damaged if it’s plugged in and the power is running through it. You could even get shocked if the power adapter is still plugged in. For your safety and your MacBook’s safety as well, please unplug the computer and switch it off before starting the cleaning process. 

2. Use Approved Optical Fiber Clothes or Soft Lint Clothes to Clean Your Screen

If you are wondering about how to clean a MacBook screen safely without damaging it, it’s important to use only approved materials to clean it with. Do not use paper towels or the sleeve of your t-shirt. Also, do not use abrasive materials, like dish towels, and terry cloth towels. It could damage your screen because of its rough nature.

There are specially formulated electronic wipes, optical fiber clothes, or soft lint clothes that are made to be used on LCD screens, like the screen of your MacBook. You probably got a couple of these soft clothes with your spectacles, if you use them. They also come with sunglasses. These are ideal to use on your MacBook screen. 

3. Don’t Ever Spray the LCD Spray Cleaner Directly Onto the Screen

If you are using an LCD spray cleaner or a plasma cleaner, DO NOT spray it directly onto your screen. The moisture could get into your screen and could damage it. You must spray only small amounts onto the approved cloth that you are using, and then use that damp cloth onto your screen. 

Even if you are using water, again, do not put the water directly onto your screen. Put small amounts onto your cloth and clean your screen that way. That will keep your MacBook screen safe from any unintentional harm.

Also, do not use any alcohol-based cleansers. Any kind of alcohol-based product can harm your screen. It is not suitable for cleaning your MacBook screen.

If you do end up getting moisture into your screen, do not switch it on. Go to an approved Apple repair center, and get your MacBook looked at right away. Otherwise, you could cause further damage to your screen and computer without realizing it. Better to let an expert deal with it. 

4. Be Gentle With Your Screen While Cleaning It

Your MacBook screen is made of a delicate material that doesn’t take well to abrasive, harsh, aggressive motions. When you are cleaning your screen, be gentle about that. Use small circular motions while applying gentle, light pressure and clean from top to bottom, and left to right. 

Remember, you are not cleaning your car or your motorbike. This is a delicate piece of machinery. Be as gentle with it as you would be with a baby or a kitten. 

5. Clean Your Screen at Least Once a Week to Keep It Working Smoothly

To get the best out of your MacBook, you must take care of it regularly. Do not wait until it starts malfunctioning to take a look at it.

Clean your MacBook screen regularly, so that you are not stuck looking at grime and dirt on your screen, rather than the beautiful LCD screen or Retinal display that you paid hundreds of dollars for. 

Follow all the steps above, and clean your MacBook screen with care, gentleness, and love. This will ensure that your MacBook lasts for a long time to come, which is exactly why you bought a MacBook vs. a PC or a Chromebook. Right?

6. Do Not Clean Your Macbook Screen When You Are In A Rush

If you are in a hurry or a rush, if you have somewhere to get to, or if you are feeling impatient, do not clean your MacBook screen then. You will end up pressing too hard, or not turning off your computer, or making some other mistake. Take it easy, and take a deep breath before beginning. Also, go gently through the process.

Remember, you are dealing with a piece of electronic equipment that’s worth hundreds of dollars.

You Are on Your Way to a Clean, High Functioning Macbook Screen

With the six tips above, you have become an amateur expert on how to clean a MacBook screen properly. If you follow the tips to a T and do not fudge with it, your MacBook screen will last you a long time to come.

One of the advantages of a MacBook over other computers is that if you treat them well, they will last much longer than other laptops and computers. That’s why more and more people are choosing them over other kinds of computers.

If you are interested in other tips to take care of your electronic devices, please check out our blog for more.

Justin Drake Carroll Gaming Systems

PS4 Won’t Turn On? This Is What You Should Do

Have you ever heard about the yellow light of death? If you have experienced it, then you know the pain of dealing with a PS3 that won’t turn on, no matter what you do. Luckily, there were some tutorials that would guide you into fixing it, but sometimes you still had to take it to your local tech experts. 

Fortunately, the newer versions of the Playstation have fixed this. Unfortunately, there are still problems that make you cry out, “Why is my PS4 not turning on?!” Today, we will discuss why your PS4 won’t turn on and what could help.

Ps4 Won’t Turn On

There are many reasons why a PS4 is not turning on at all. Some of the causes are simple fixes, while others may be a bit more in-depth and may require help from tech experts. It may simply be some dust in your console to faulty hardware. 

Let us start with the easy troubleshooting tips and work our way to the more technical ones.

Disconnect the Power Cord

Yes, it may seem like an obvious solution, but it is an effective one. What you do is disconnect the power cord found in the back of your PS4 for about 30 seconds. Then plug in back in and try turning it back on. 

When you connect it again to your PS4, make sure it’s plugged in well. Since the power cord is a bit sturdy, it can be easy to plug it incorrectly.

Did it work? If not, let’s move on to the next step.

Connect to a Wall Outlet

In today’s age of technology, we usually have so many devices that need to be plugged into either charge or even get it to turn on. That is why we usually use a power strip. But the convince of a power strip has its downside, as it does not regulate power flow. Meaning that your PS4 may not be getting enough power.

Try connecting your PS4 directly into a wall outlet to see if it turns on. If it doesn’t, try different wall outlets in your home to check that it is not a problem with a faulty wall outlet. If it still doesn’t work, don’t worry! Let’s keep trying to find a solution.

Power Cycling

This method is a little less known. What does it involve? Simply hold down the power button of the PS4 for about 10 seconds, and while doing this, your PS4 will flash a blue light, after which it will shut off.

After it shuts off, unplug the power cord and leave it alone for 20 minutes. Yes, the PS4 also needs a break from being used! Once the time has passed, simply plug the power cord back in and turn it on.  

Can’t find the power button? Don’t worry. It is not a traditional button, so it can be a little tricky to find. Facing the PS4, find the SONY logo, and right underneath it, there is a thin strip with a power symbol on it. 

Is your PlayStation is still not turning on, no problem! We still have a few more solutions that may help.

Dust 

Since the PlayStation4 has a fan, it is very common for it to accumulate dust. And dust is a very damaging substance for any device with fans, as it can clog up the vent making your PS4 overheat or straight up not turn on. So what to do first in order to clean your PS4? 

First of all, do not blow on it! By blowing on it, you risk spit particles damaging your console. Also, don’t use a vacuum since it can create static, potentially frying your components. What you must do first is unplug your PS4. What do you need to clean it?

What you need is a can of compressed air and a small brush. Next, we find the air intake of the PS4, which is on the top side. To make sure you are on the correct side, just check if the PS symbol on the front is correctly oriented and not upside down. Then, carefully use the compressed air and gently brush off as much as you can in the air intake.

Hopefully, this worked but if not, keep reading for more solutions!

Running It on Safemode

Now you may think, “but if my PlayStation doesn’t turn on, how will this work?” It is possible to turn it on through Safemode, as this mode disables certain parts of a PS4, thus allowing it to boot up. How do you do it?

First of all, hold the power button until you hear two beeps. The second beep is usually 7 seconds after the first. Next, plug in your PS4 controller to your PlayStation with a USB cable. Press the PS button in the center of your controller.

If it boots up into safe mode, then the cause is most likely a software problem, not a hardware one.  

Here you will have different options, and the first you should try is updating the Playstation. If that does not work, then repeat the steps to get back into Safemode and try rebuilding the database. Note that doing this erases everything on your Playstion, so perform this with caution!

After rebuilding the database, it should restart your PlayStation.

Still Not Turning On?

If none of the aforementioned solutions has helped and your PS4 won’t turn on, it´s time to seek the tech experts. They will be able to open up your PS4 and check thoroughly what the problem is.  If you still have a warranty on your PS4, then you may try to contact support. But being a big corporation, it may take them a lot longer to fix your console.

That is why it may be faster to contact your local tech experts, not only can we personally attend to your problem. We also have low prices. Feel free to contact us to get the help you need from experts in all things tech!

Justin Drake Carroll MAC

How Long Do MacBooks Last? The Complete Guide

If there’s one type of laptop you should invest in, it’s a MacBook. Each model of the MacBook outdoes the previous iteration. Whether you want a MacBook Air or a MacBook Pro, you will not be disappointed with the quality of these powerful and versatile machines. But, you know that these MacBooks are expensive computers. You want to make sure when you buy one that it lasts a long time. So how long do MacBooks last?

It all depends on how well you look after your MacBook. We’ve prepared this guide on how to understand your MacBook and how to maintain it.

The Guide on How Long Do MacBooks Last

First, you want to decide which model of a MacBook you wish to buy. You also want to consider whether you want to buy a new MacBook or an older one. The best decision is always to purchase a new MacBook.

However, if you are on a budget you can consider a used model. Make sure you purchase from an authorized retailer so that it is still in good condition. If there are any issues with a used MacBook you can bring it in for a repair.

Here’s what you need to know about how long a MacBook can last:

When It Needs Replacing

There comes a point when you will need to replace your MacBook. For example, if your MacBook does not have the capability to use the latest Mac OS, then you will need to purchase a new MacBook. When apps are updated, they often require the latest OS. If you find that most of your apps aren’t working, it’s time to replace your MacBook.

If you find that your Mac is unreliable and always has to shut down to “renew” its energy then you have to replace it. If you are unable to update any of the components, because they are no longer available or manufactured then you need to replace the MacBook.

As a result, if you decide to buy a used MacBook, you want to purchase as recent a model as is possible. 

Why The Latest OS Matters

So why does the latest operating system matter for your Mac? Can you still use Mac OS X Tiger which is one of the oldest Mac OS systems?

The problem with using an older OS is that they are more vulnerable to security threats than are the latest OS. Many of the latest applications will only work on the latest OS. 

You will also notice that the OS will not have any updates. As a result, if there are any frustrations you have with it then you are stuck with these frustrations. The only solution is to upgrade to the latest OS. If your Mac cannot handle the latest OS, then you need to purchase a new Mac.

Lack Of Power

MacBook’s are known for their awesome power. If you find that the MacBook is working slowly for more-demanding applications such as iMovie or Garageband, etc. then you might be in need of a new MacBook.

If you find you cannot even do basic things such as searching for items in Finder without your Mac working slowly, then you definitely need to replace your Mac.

If you find that even after you clear space on your Mac, that it still behaves slowly then you should replace your Mac.

So what can you do to improve your Mac’s longevity? Let’s have a look at a few methods.

Free Up Space

If you find that your Mac is working slowly, the first option is to always free up your hard drive space. You should invest in an external hard drive and routinely add your files to the hard drive. You can also add your files to a cloud storage solution.

You should also delete files that are unnecessary. If you have applications that you no longer use, delete them. If there are old documents or other media that you won’t need, then you should delete them.

Freeing up space is often the easiest way to speed up your Mac. If your Mac works efficiently, this will prolong its lifespan. It’s only when it still works poorly after having free space that you need to replace it.

Prolong Your Battery

If your battery is abused, this can shorten the lifespan of your Mac. The first thing to do is make sure that you don’t keep your charger connected when your battery is fully charged. You should also only charge it when the battery life comes under 10%.

You should also turn off the computer when you aren’t using it. It’s convenient to keep it on at all times, but this is harmful to your MacBook. Turn it off at night and turn it on only when you are going to use it. 

If you are taking a break from using your Mac, you should put it to sleep. If you are going to be away from your Mac for several hours, you can turn it off. 

You also want to consider ocassionaly disabling aspects of your Mac to prolong its battery life. This can include lowering the brightness, disabling Siri, turning off Bluetooth, and disabling Wi-Fi when you don’t need to access the internet.

Keep It Up To Date

You want to always keep your Mac up-to-date. This means that you should always update the OS when one is available. The same rule applies to your applications. 

If there are possibilities to upgrade the RAM or any internal hardware of your Mac, you might want to consider this as well. As long as you make sure that the software is updated, you can ensure that your Mac will have more security and more power.

If you find that you have a new Mac and it still has issues, then you should consider taking it to an expert. 

As you can see, there is no set answer on how long a MacBook lasts. It all depends on how well you maintain it.

Look After Your MacBook

Now that you know how long do MacBooks last, you can know when to replace one. You also know how to take care of your Mac to make it last longer.

If you want to buy great Apple products, you should check out our catalog!

Justin Drake Carroll iPad

This Is How to Improve iPad Battery Life

Over the course of owning and using an iPad, you might find the battery life steadily decreases, and it needs to be charged more and more frequently. However, there are many tricks you can make use of to help improve your iPad battery lifespan.

So how long does an iPad battery last? And how can you increase iPad battery life?

Keep reading for our suggestions on how to get the most out of your iPad battery life.

Check Battery Usage

When trying to improve your battery life, the first step is to check the current health of your battery and find out which apps are draining the most power. To do this open ‘Settings’, then ‘Battery’, and then ‘Battery Health’.

Here, you can see as a percentage the maximum capacity your iPad has. A brand new iPad with 100% battery capacity should last 10 hours without needing to be charged.

Tap ‘Show Detailed Usage’ from the Battery page on your iPad to get an insight into which apps consume the most battery power. Consider uninstalling the apps which drain your battery but are not essential to have downloaded to your tablet.

This will make a big difference to your iPad battery usage.

It’s also worth mentioning a common misconception here: closing your app windows does not save you battery power! It is only when the apps are actively running a process (such as downloading a file or playing a song) that they consume battery power. 

Adjust Connection Settings

It’s important to be aware of the different connection settings on your iPad. If you leave these settings enabled when not using them, this can be a huge drain on your battery power.

For example, if you are at home watching a movie on your iPad via your WiFi connection, you can turn off your cellular data, Bluetooth, and location services. Equally, if you are using your iPad to read a book in the park, you can turn your WiFi off in addition to the other connection settings mentioned. This will make a huge difference to your battery life.

These settings can be accessed by opening ‘Settings’, then clicking into each specific connection and turning it off. Scroll down a little to ‘Privacy’ to turn off your location services.

An even quicker way of doing this is to tap these buttons from your control center (swipe up from your home screen) or even by turning on Airplane Mode.

Low Power Mode

A simple way to save battery power on your iPad is by turning on low power mode. You can do this by heading to ‘Settings’ then ‘Battery’, and toggle on ‘Low Power Mode’.

You’ll find your iPad automatically prompts you to do this when you get down to 20% battery, but if you know you’ve got a long day ahead of you without many charging opportunities, why not enable this from 100%?

Turning on low power mode will pause background processes such as checking for new mail and refreshing background apps. Automatic downloads will also be paused if you have this setting enabled.

Change Auto-Lock and Screen Brightness

Next up are a couple more setting changes that can make a significant difference to your battery life. First, let’s take a look at the auto-lock function.

This setting controls the duration of inactivity after which your iPad will lock and the screen will turn off. You can change this by going to ‘Settings’, then ‘Display & Brightness’, and selecting ‘Auto-Lock’. Here, you can choose how soon you want your screen to lock after inactivity.

The shorter the period, the more battery life you will save!

Changing the brightness of your screen will also help extend the battery life of your iPad. Of course, the amount you can adjust your screen brightness by will be determined by your lighting conditions. Sitting outside in the sun will require higher brightness, but this can be reduced in darker indoor settings.

You can also turn on auto-brightness, which means the iPad will automatically sense the level of brightness you need depending on your environment. To turn this on, tap ‘Settings’, then ‘General’, and ‘Accessibility’. From here, tap ‘Display Accommodations’ and toggle on the ‘Auto-Brightness’ option.

Software Updates

Another important point to be aware of when extending your iPad’s battery life is making sure your software is up to date. You can check this by going to ‘Settings’, then ‘General’, and selecting ‘Software Update’.

Here you can see if a new update is available, and also allow your iPad to automatically update when a new version of the software is released.

Staying up to date with the latest software is important because Apple’s engineers create better battery-saving technology with each update they introduce. Also, some features such as low-battery mode are only available with the latest iPad updates.

Reset iPad

Battery life slowly decreasing is of course not as big an issue as getting your iPad wet. However, there might come a time when restoring your iPad to factory settings is the best option.

Resetting your iPad can sometimes give it a new lease of life – just make sure you have backed your tablet up before starting this!

To reset an iPad, hold down the power button and the home button at the same time. Keep doing this until the Apple icon appears on your screen. You can then follow the on-screen instructions to restore your apps and settings.

To reset an iPad Pro, hold down the power button and either of the volume buttons at the same time. Then follow the same instructions as above for resetting an iPad.

Now You Know How to Maximize Your iPad Battery Life

By following our Fruit Fixed top tips, you can now get the most out of your iPad battery life. If after implementing these changes you still find the battery drains quickly, it might be time to get a technician to check it out.

For more information about how we can help you repair your device, select your iPad model for more information.

Justin Drake Carroll iPad

This Is How to Clean an iPad Screen Without Damaging It

Did you drop your iPad on the ground or did crumbs from your movie snack smudge all over the screen? It’s time to learn how to clean an iPad screen before the dirt and debris cause bigger issues. You’ll want to get it done quickly since it is an expensive device, after all. 

However, you shouldn’t dive in with rubbing alcohol and the first piece of cloth you find. You might not clean it right. You even run the risk of damaging your iPad!

Don’t panic, however, because we’ve got a guide right here to show you how to clean your iPad screen. Read on below to learn how to do it right, step by step:

When Is It Time to Clean an iPad?

When should you clean your iPad screen? How often should you give it a proper wipe down?

You should clean your iPad screen at least once a week. This will prevent oil, dust, and debris build-up from damaging the screen. If you leave your screen dirty for too long, the little bits of dust and oil could cause permanent damage.

You’ll start to see scratches and dents that won’t come off. You could also see thumbprints or uneven spots on the screen. Prevent these by cleaning your screen at least once a month – give it a basic wipe down at least once a week too.

Tools Needed for Cleaning an iPad

Learning how to clean an iPad screen starts with getting the right tools for the job. You’ll want to start by getting lint-free cloth. These are fabrics that don’t leave tiny pieces of fabric after wiping. 

Tissue, some towels, and paper don’t qualify. Even paper towels don’t work well. After wiping your screen a bit, these materials will leave bits and pieces behind. 

Microfiber wipers are the most common types of lint-free fabric. People working at the Apple store or other repair shops use these when wiping down screens and other delicate surfaces. 

Don’t use any alcohol or traditional screen cleaner fluids. Unlike the screen for your laptop or TV screen, an iPad features an oleophobic covering. Most cleaner fluids will ruin this covering, so instead use plain water to clean your iPad screen.

Oleophobic Screen Precautions

What is an oleophobic screen covering? It’s a thin layer on top of the screen that makes the iPad oil resistant. This is the reason you can simply wipe off fingerprints with a dry cloth. 

Unfortunately, the coating doesn’t last forever. It will wear down over time and you’ll notice liquids won’t simply roll off the screen anymore. To keep the coating on as long as possible, avoid using traditional cleaning fluids. 

Water is still the best cleaning solution for an iPad and iPhone.

You may find a few cleaning solutions that work specifically for devices with oleophobic coating. Be careful with these, however, and make sure to test them with older devices before using them on your iPad.

How to Clean an iPad Screen

Got everything you need? Now it’s time to start cleaning an iPad! The process is simple, and we’ve even broken it down into four easy-to-follow steps:

Unplug and Power Down

Start by turning off your iPad – power it down and then unplug it. This requires a hard shut down and not simply putting the device to sleep. This is important because you don’t want the device to short-circuit.

Remember that you’ll be using water to clean the screen. If even a tiny bit of water sprays into a plugged charger or into the device’s ports while it’s running, you risk blowing something inside. You’ll need professional aid if your iPad or iPhone charging port stops working.

Dry Cloth Wipe-Down

Once you’ve shut down the iPad and disconnected all the cables, get a microfiber cloth and wipe the screen down. Don’t get it wet yet! Give the screen a quick wipe down to push off dust and debris. 

Afterward, grab the cloth and start wiping the iPad in slow, small circular motions. 

When done, give the screen another wipe down. Look for areas where dirt and debris or scratches are still visible. If you can still spot a few, it’s time to move on to the next important step.

Dampen and Clean

Take your microfiber and dampen it with plain water. Don’t use hot or ice-cold water – use room-temperature water. 

Again, wipe the screen using soft, circular motions. This will help wipe off the remaining dirt without damaging the oleophobic coating or the screen surface underneath. Be gentle with your motions because pressing down too hard could damage your iPad screen.

Dry Wipe-Down

The final step is to dry your iPad screen. Get a dry portion of your microfiber – or get a different cloth entirely – and give your screen one final dry wipe down. Make sure to soak up all the moisture from the previous wipe down. 

However, there’s still a possibility you’ll find scratches or other issues with your screen even after a proper cleaning session. The next step isn’t to dump all sorts of questionable cleaning fluids! Instead, you should bring your iPad screen to a professional.

Bring It to a Professional

One of the purposes of cleaning your iPad is to make it look brand new. However, cleaning also ensures you don’t end up with dead pixels on the screen. It also helps you find deep scratches, non-responsive touchpoints, and other potential cracks or signs of damage.

Bringing it to a professional can also help determine if the screen needs replacement or other repairs. We’ve got you covered on that end!

Get All Your iPad Maintenance and Repairs Done Here!

If you don’t know how to clean an iPad screen, this basic tutorial should help you get it done without further hiccups. However, if you want professional cleaning, maintenance, or repairs, don’t hesitate to approach us!

Whether you need iPad repairs or maintenance for other devices, don’t hesitate to get in touch! We’re your one-stop shop for all your gadgets, from iPads to video game consoles.