Justin Drake Carroll Repair

4 Important Steps to Take Before Getting Smart Phone Repair

Americans lost $13 billion through traditional identity fraud last year. Theft of personally identifiable information made it all possible for fraudsters. 

Securing your personal data is crucial to defending yourself from predators. But what should you do when your entire life is stored on your phone and then it breaks?

In most cases, you can still keep the data that is important to you and send your device in for smart phone repair. However, before bringing your phone into the shop or mailing it in, there are a few steps you can take to secure your data.

Don’t lose your photos, texts, and emails simply because you need your phone fixed. Here are four steps that you should take before submitting your phone for repair.

Back up Your Smart Phone

If someone looked through your phone, what would they see? If you’re like most people, your phone is full of photos, your daily calendar, personal emails, and nearly every other detail of your daily life.

Typically phone repairs like screen replacements can be completed without any data loss. However, when it comes to broken phones, there is always a chance of losing something.

This is why creating a data backup is a crucial step to take before sending your phone in for repair.

If your phone is automatically set up to be backed up to cloud storage, you should be able to check the backup file to determine it is current. If so, you’re good to go.

If your phone doesn’t have a backup, however, you’ll need to create one.

The easiest way to do this is through the cloud. If you have an iPhone, you can back your data up to iCloud. If you have an Android phone like a Samsung, Google Drive will be the default cloud backup.

If you’re not able to take advantage of a cloud backup, you should save your photos and other data to a computer or external hard drive. If you don’t take this crucial step, your data may be lost.

Take Out Personal Information

Confirming that all of your data is stored on the cloud or a physical drive is just the first step. Once that is complete, it’s time to remove personal information from your smart phone.

The quickest way to do this is to reset your phone to factory settings. That means all of your data will be removed and your phone will be in the same state as it was when it left the factory.

With a factory reset, you can be sure that none of your passwords are available and that you aren’t logged into any private accounts.

If you aren’t comfortable with resetting your phone, the next best security step is to delete data and sign out of accounts. If you are using an iPhone, that also means turning off the “Find my iPhone” feature.

At the very least, you should remove any data that you wouldn’t want to accidentally fall into the wrong hands. This means any information that could help someone answer security questions on your behalf too.

Even though you will be sending your phone to professionals for repair, theft or accidents are sometimes unavoidable.

Remove Your Security Lock

The person repairing your phone will likely need to unlock it to ensure the repair was successful.

Since you have removed all of your personal data, you can remove the password as well. Otherwise, you can keep a simple password to give to the repair person.

To do this on an iPhone, you’ll need to go into your phone setting and scroll to the Face ID & Passcode section. Turning your passcode off will require that you enter it first for confirmation.

On an Android phone, access the Settings app and then the Lock Screen section. You’ll need to enter your passcode before turning it off completely.

Remove SIM Card and Accessories

Now that your phone is almost a blank slate, you’ll need to remove the SIM card if one is installed. If you examine your phone, you’ll likely see a small pinhole where you can insert a paperclip.

If you’ve never removed the SIM card from your smart phone before, you can do an internet search to learn how. Each phone model will differ in the location of the SIM card slot.

If you’ve installed any accessories on your phone, you’ll also need to remove them. This might include cases, protective covers, or additional storage cards.

What Else to Know About Smart Phone Repair

Once you’ve secured all of your data, be sure to physically protect your phone. Get it repaired as soon as you are able to prevent further damage. If you are experiencing a broken screen, it’s especially important to keep it secure.

While smart phone issues are common, it doesn’t hurt to read about the issue you are having. Repair is typically best left to a professional, but additional knowledge may help you from having problems in the future.

After your phone has been repaired, confirm everything is functioning as it should. Be sure to load your data back on your phone as well.

Get Your Phone Fixed

If you’re dealing with a broken phone, you’re not alone. Most people deal with a broken screen or another component at some point. 

Worried about a smart phone repair? Most issues can be easily and quickly fixed by a professional, without the need to replace the phone.

Check out our smart phone repair options. We’ll have your life back in the palm of your hands in no time!

Justin Drake Carroll Apple

How to Improve Apple Watch Battery Life in 7 Easy Steps

The Apple Watch is an incredibly popular device. Ever since it was first released back in 2015, the smartwatch has become more and more well-known and well-loved. It’s got to the point that Apple now sells more watches than the Swiss watch industry.

However, if you use your Apple Watch a lot, you might have noticed the battery draining pretty fast. You need your watch to last you all day, so how can you boost your Apple Watch battery life? 

In this guide, we’re going to take a look at what you should and shouldn’t do if you want to make your smartwatch’s battery life last you all day, every day. Put these tips into use, and you’ll be able to enjoy your watch without ever having to second guess the battery again.

Are you ready to learn more? Then read on!

1. Limit Your Cellular Use

Ever since the Apple Watch Series 3, cellular data has been available on the Apple Watch. While this is a massive boon for many users, overusing this feature can quickly drain the battery life.

The same logic applies to this as to your smartphone battery. Using 4G, 5G, or even 3G will drain your battery faster than using wifi. It’s a lot more efficient to connect your watch to your iPhone via Bluetooth or wifi.

If you notice that your battery is draining abnormally fast, you should consider whether you’re making the Apple Watch use cellular technology to communicate with the phone. If you are, then you should try to avoid this if at all possible.

2. Stick to a Minimalist Face for Longer Battery Life

The ability to change your Apple Watch’s face is one of the coolest features that the device has to offer. You can decide exactly what you want the watch to look like, and tweak it daily to suit your mood if you like.

The only issue with this is that some faces use more battery life than others, just as some smartphone wallpapers use more battery life. 

If you’re not going to be near a charger for a while and want to preserve the battery life, you should switch to a minimalist face that uses fewer colors and animated elements. While the animated watch faces look great, they can chug your battery like there’s no tomorrow.

3. Turn Off the Wrist Raise Function

The Apple Watch comes with a feature that can turn the watch on when you raise your wrist. While this works great in theory (after all, who doesn’t raise their wrist to look at their watch), in practice it can lead to a much more pronounced drain on your battery.

Think about all the times that you raise your wrist and it’s not to look at your watch: driving, drinking tea or coffee, eating, gesturing. All of these can lead to a drained battery and, ultimately, a battery replacement.

To turn this feature off, grab your iPhone and go to the Watch app. From here, follow these instructions:

  • Open the “my watch” tab
  • Go to general
  • Go to “wake screen”
  • Turn it off with the slider

When you’ve turned this setting off, you’ll need to tap your watch to view the face.

4. Update watchOS

While it’s not a definitive answer to battery drain issues, sometimes updating watchOS can solve your problems. There’s always the possibility that a new update has stymied battery life.

If this is the case, then Apple almost certainly knows about the issue and will release an update in no short order to solve it. If you’ve recently noticed that your battery is draining faster than it used to, you should check for a watchOS update.

If there is one, install it, and see if that solves your problem.

5. Remove Unused Apps

We’re willing to bet that you don’t regularly use every app that’s on your Apple Watch. If that’s the case, then removing them should be one of your top priorities. Most apps will still run in the background and communicate with your iPhone, which can lead to a draining battery.

Think about the apps that you actually use on your watch. Which ones could you do without?

Then uninstall the ones that you rarely use. You can always put them back on if you change your mind, so why not give it a try?

6. Disable Siri on Your Watch

The “Hey Siri” feature on the Apple Watch can be pretty handy, but if you’ve got your iPhone with you, it’s not something that you can’t live without. Having this feature enabled will mean that your watch is listening to hear those magic words and spring into action.

Turning the feature off will mean that your watch is a little less active when you’re not using it. To turn this feature off, get your iPhone and follow these instructions:

  • Go to the Watch app
  • Open the Siri section
  • Turn off “listen for ‘hey Siri'”

7. Turn Off Haptic Alerts

Haptic alerts use a whole lot of your Apple Watch’s battery. Vibrations use a lot of battery due to the relative size and weight of the device versus the motor, so turning these off can really help.

To do this, you’ll need to grab your iPhone again and follow these steps:

  • Go to the Watch app
  • Open the “my watch” tab
  • Go to “sounds and haptics”
  • Turn off haptic alerts

Use These Tips to Improve Your Apple Watch Battery Life

If your Apple Watch battery life isn’t what it once was, these tips can help you get it back into peak condition. If you’ve tried these tips and your battery is still draining fast, you should consider having one of our expert staff take a look at your watch battery to see whether it needs to be replaced.

We have several locations and will be happy to see you at any of them. If you have any questions for us, please don’t hesitate to contact us by calling 804-698-0004.

Justin Drake Carroll iPad

Should I Get My iPad Repaired or Replaced?

It’s not a secret that Apple dislikes third-party repair shops. Together with Microsoft and Google, it has been actively fighting right-to-repair laws for various reasons.

However, when Apple’s repair prices are too steep, should you replace your device every time it has an issue? Of course not.

As a consumer, you have the option to have your iPad repaired by a third-party service provider. Regardless, think about whether you need a repair or a replacement. Keep on reading to see everything you need to consider.

1. What’s Wrong With Your iPad?

First, consider the type of repairing your tablet needs. It will determine how much you’re going to spend on it. You’ll also discover if the cost is worth your while.

If the issue lies in the software, it’s easy and cheap to repair. If you dropped it from a skyscraper, however, it may be irreparable and you have no choice but to replace it.

Always go to a professional first, especially if you don’t know what’s wrong with your iPad. Go to an Apple service center or a third-party shop with a high standard.

2. Consider the Costs of Repair and Replacement

For peace of mind, get your iPad repaired by Apple itself. It ensures all replacement parts are original and your phone receives high-quality work. Expect the same from Apple Authorized Service Providers since they always use genuine parts and approved techniques.

However, it’s quite expensive when your device is no longer under a warranty or when the warranty doesn’t cover the damage. For example, the out-of-warranty service fee for an iPad Pro can go as much as $749. The most affordable service fee they have is for the iPad Mini, coming at $199.

If you paid extra to have AppleCare+, you’ll still have to pay a service fee. It’s much lower since you only have to pay $49, no matter the type of damage.

iPad Repair by a Third-Party Service Provider

You can choose to go to a third party to get a much lower price. You’ll trade your peace of mind since you won’t know the source of the replacement parts and the quality of their work.

It might also void your warranty and any extended coverage. Apple might also choose not to service your iPad anymore, even when you want to pay for it.

It’s because unofficial parts can be disastrous to the device and user. A low-quality replacement part can damage the whole unit.

If your problem is a cracked screen on your iPad or a dead battery, though, you don’t have to worry anymore. A third-party shop will repair or replace it. Doing so won’t void your warranty anymore.

One way to get some peace of mind is to go to a trusted business. They must have experience repairing iPads and a lot of happy customers.

DIY iPad Repair

Some people go the DIY route as it saves more money and they choose what parts to work with. However, this presents more problems.

If you have no training in repairing the particular model of your iPad or even tablets as a whole, you’re likely to cause more damage. You’re going to end up paying more for the subsequent repairs. Having a professional fix the initial problem is cheaper in comparison.

Furthermore, you may not know for sure what’s causing issues with your iPad. A broken screen is pretty easy to spot, but an internal problem is hard to diagnose.

That said, DIY repair kits remain to be the cheapest option. Although, you have to take a lot of unnecessary risks.

iPad Replacement

The cost of an official repair without a warranty is almost the same as a brand new iPad. Should you get a replacement instead?

A rule that people often follow is that if the repair costs two-thirds of the cost of a new unit, buy one instead. This way, you get all the benefits of a new iPad, like a warranty, upgraded specs, and new features.

Transferring your data from one device to another isn’t even an issue with Apple devices as long as you have a backup. As such, it’s pretty easy to get a new unit when your old one isn’t usable anymore.

3. Look at Other Factors

Let’s face it—the cost is the most important factor when deciding whether to get a repair or replacement. However, consider other factors to see if the savings are still logical or not.

Age of Your iPad

A replacement is a solid option for when you’re due for an upgrade. If you’ve had your iPad for over four years, buying the latest model is more sensible than repairs. It might completely break down soon after, wasting your money and time.

Cost of Your Time

Speaking of time, people who lead busy lives might find sending off their iPad for repairs too time-consuming. Some types of damage require days or even weeks of work.

Some people don’t have much time. If their iPad is important to their work, they’ll lose money. In these cases, it’s more cost-effective to buy a new one instead.

Sentimental Value

You can’t put a price on anything with sentimental value. If your iPad has an important engraving, or it’s a gift from your late grandfather, you might find it easier on your heart to let experts repair it. Remember, some things are worth the extra effort and money.

Get Your iPad Repaired by a Professional

If you decide to have your iPad repaired, you must go to a trusted third-party shop. It’s the more cost-effective route. Choose the right provider to ensure that you’ll get high-quality parts and service.

Choosing a trusted professional is the key. Contact us today and let us know the type of repairs you need.

Justin Drake Carroll iPhone

5 Signs of iPhone Water Damage and How to Fix It

Did you drop your phone in the toilet or spill juice on it by accident? Did you have to answer a call while it was raining? We’ve all been there. To make matters worse, Apple’s warranty doesn’t cover water damage. The good news is that iPhone water damage isn’t a permanent conundrum.

The first step, however, is to identify when your phone is suffering from water damage. To help you out, here are five clear signs you need to look out for:

1. Check the LCI

One of the most obvious signs of water damage is your iPhone’s Liquid Contact Indicator (LCI) color. It should appear silver or white, depending on your iPhone model. It will turn red if your phone has severe water damage and needs immediate repairs.

The location of the LCI depends on the model of your iPhone. Models from the iPhone 5 onwards place the LCI by the SIM card slot. For older models, you’ll find the LCI by the headphone jack. 

Your phone’s LCI is the main indicator of significant water damage. If it hasn’t turned red yet but your phone is already experiencing the other symptoms listed below, take your phone to a repair shop before the damage spreads.

Keep in mind that a red LCI spells doom for your warranty. Apple doesn’t repair phones with a red LCI since it indicates water damage. Despite advertisements claiming it’s a water-resistant device, Apple won’t cover water damages so you’ll have to seek repairs from third-party professionals.

2. Boot Up Issues

How can you tell if your phone is suffering from water damage if the LCI didn’t turn red yet? Fortunately, there are a few other symptoms of water damage to look out for. A common one you might experience is a boot-up error.

A phone with water damage might randomly turn off and on again. When it does, you might see nothing but a blank white screen. It won’t move on from this phase, locking you in a white screen.

Some people refer to this as the White Screen of Death, meaning your phone died and you need to repair and reboot it. The downside is rebooting your phone from this will erase all the data and files saved on it. This is why you should always back up important files on iCloud. 

3. Warning/Error Messages

Dealing with a dropped phone in water doesn’t always lead to immediate problems. You might not even know your phone has water damage because it won’t look problematic. However, you could start getting error messages when doing things that normally work.

For example, you might get an error messaging after plugging in your iPhone to charge. It’ll state that the cable isn’t compatible with your phone even if you’re using an official iPhone charger. 

This can happen even with Bluetooth devices. If the water damage reached your phone’s inner components, it won’t be able to detect and pair with Bluetooth devices. This includes headsets and speakers. 

Did you get an error or warning message after plugging something into your phone’s charger port? If you did, immediately un-sync your iPhone and remove the cable. It’s time to seek professional repair services.

4. Other Ports Stop Working

You might also have a broken iPhone if the other ports break. Modern iPhones have a single USB-C port for charging and connecting headsets. However, if you own an older model, you can still find a separate 3.5mm earphone jack.

If that also fails to read your headset or earphones, it’s likely there’s an internal problem. Of course, it could simply be your earphones. Test whether or not it’s the phone by plugging in different earphones to the 3.5mm port. 

Did all of the earphones fail to work? Do you hear constant static regardless of the earphone inserted? If you experience any of these problems then you could be looking at water damage. 

The best way to make sure is to bring your phone to an expert and have it checked. It could simply be a damaged earphone port or it could be an early symptom of water damage. Taking your phone to an expert repairman guarantees you can catch the problem before it spreads.

5. Water Spots on the Screen

You might not need to open up and repair your phone yet. If your phone got wet from the rain or a spill, you might be able to spot early symptoms of water damage by checking your screen. Spots on the screen are a good indication that water seeped inside.

Spots on your screen come from water droplets that dried from the inside. The dirt and debris caught in the water will remain after the droplets dry off and can settle and damage your screen surface. It doesn’t take much for the damage to become noticeable.

This can happen when your phone gets exposed to rain or when juice and water spill on your phone. The liquid might not have entered the ports but could’ve seeped through the screen and screen protector.

Fortunately, this could mean the damage hasn’t corrupted the internal hardware yet. Therefore, taking your phone to a professional repairman could decrease the chances of your phone completely shutting down.

Repair iPhone Water Damage Today

Dealing with iPhone water damage can seem a little bit of a hassle. After all, you might not even know if your phone has water damage until you see some of the aforementioned symptoms. Make it a habit to check the phone’s LCI and look out for the other symptoms of water damage after taking your phone out in the rain. 

If your phone does show these signs, don’t waste time trying to get Apple to repair the device. The warranty doesn’t cover water damage.

Don’t fret if you don’t know how to fix phone water damage. We’re here to help. Never hesitate to get in touch with us now for professional iPhone repairs and let us get your phone back in shape.

Justin Drake Carroll iPhone

5 Things You Need to Know Before Getting Your iPhone Repaired

Are you experiencing problems charging your device? These are only a few of the different problems that require iPhone repairs. Over a billion active iPhones exist in the world. With the brand’s commitment toward quality, they offer warranty for their devices. However, Apple’s warranty isn’t as extensive. They only cover manufacturing defects for one full year to get your iPhone repaired. It starts from the day you purchased your device.

Moreover, the warranty doesn’t cover damages resulting from accidents.

Hence, you have the option to bring your device to a third-party repair shop. If you’re planning to bring your device to a repair center, there are some important things you need to know before doing so.

Continue reading below for five of the most important tips. Read on to get your iPhone repaired:

1. Determine Your iPhone’s Problem

One of the first things to know before getting your iPhone repaired is the nature of the problem. Many common reasons merit a trip to the repair center. Detect and determine the problem of your device.

Sometimes, it’s tricky since some issues overlap and intertwine. At times, the problem can be minor and only needs app or software updates. Identify the issue and troubleshoot before opting for a smartphone repair.

After exhausting all troubleshooting options and it still doesn’t work, check if your device remains under warranty. If so, contact your Apple Support. Otherwise, call a trusted third-party repair center.

2. You Need to Perform a Backup

Back up your smartphone before taking it to the repair center. There are two ways to back up your device. You can do it via iTunes or through iCloud.

If you choose to back up using the former, make sure your MacBook or Mac computer is running on the latest version of iTunes. From there, connect your iPhone to your computer. Open “File” and select “Devices” then click on “Backup.”

In case you’re using the iTunes 10.7 version or an earlier version, right-click the device from the list. From there, select “Backup Now.” Alternatively, you can back up your phone by syncing your iPhone with your Mac computer or MacBook.

To ensure the backup’s completion, open “iTunes Preferences.” Hit the “Devices” tab and look for the name of your iPhone. Check the date and time you created the iTunes backup.

If you want a wireless and automatic method of backing up your phone, an iCloud backup is your best bet. First, verify your iCloud backup to see if it is up-to-date. Go to “Settings,” select “iCloud,” then hit “Storage & Backup.”

From there, check if the iCloud Backup feature is active or not. Select “Back Up Now” to commence the function.

The great thing about this feature is that iCloud will automatically back up your data once enabled.

3. Remove Your SIM Card and Security Locks

Before repairing your iPhone, you must remove the SIM card. As basic as it may seem, some iPhone users overlook this task. To avoid problems, keep your SIM ejector tool in a safe and accessible place.

In case your device has no SIM card, request a temporary suspension of the service from your provider. Also, remove your device from the Apple ID device list.

Moreover, remove the security locks on your iPhone. Disable your pattern lock, PIN, or fingerprint authorization. It will help technicians work on your smartphone faster.

To do this, go to “Settings” and hit “Touch ID & Passcode.” Go to devices without tapping “Touch ID.” Head on to “Settings” and select “Passcode.”

4. The Warranty Conundrum

Another vital aspect is to determine the warranty of the repair service. If you decide to have your iPhone repaired by a third-party center, it will void an active Apple warranty.

If the problem is with the battery, check if the 12-month coverage is still in effect. If so, take advantage of the warranty. If you’re on AppleCare+, it offers up to two years warranty for the battery.

It means you can request a battery replacement free of charge. What if you’re the problem is broken glass? Even if you have AppleCare+, you will still have to shell out a significant amount for a replacement.

If you decide to go the third-party route, the key is to find a repair center that offers low-price guarantees. How does this work? The repair center will match its competitor’s published price for repairs and beat the price by a few bucks.

5. The Track Record of Repair Shops

Last but not least, understand the value of research and due diligence. Before deciding on a third-part repair center, be sure to check their track record. A good place to start is to look for online review websites or through the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

How do they deal with their clients? Are they friendly yet maintain a high level of professionalism?

How about their industry experience? Do they repair devices other than smartphones? Also, you want to check the availability of their technicians.

How many customers can they accommodate in a day? A trusted repair center can handle over a hundred clients a day without compromising customer service and the quality of their output.

Lastly, ask about their deals and promos. You want to find an affordable repair center that delivers top-notch services. At the same time, they must fit your budget range.

Get Your iPhone Repaired by an Expert Now!

Now that you know these facts, you can prepare your device before taking it to the repair center. You can make better decisions to help you get the best value for your money. If ever you’re looking for a place to have your iPhone repaired, you came to the right place.

We offer repair services for old and new iPhone models. Connect with us and tell us more about your iPhone-related concerns. Let one of our expert technicians work on your devices, today!

Justin Drake Carroll Repair

Computer Repair: What Are the Functions of My Computer Parts

A massive 89 percent of American households have a computer, but far fewer of them know how computers actually work. The complex parts and how they work are still a mystery to the vast majority of us. Understanding how all of your computer’s parts work can make computer repair much more intelligible, and it can help you fix some simple issues yourself, too. 

In this guide, we’re going to take a look at how your computer’s parts work and what each component does. Are you ready to learn more about the inner workings of your machine? Then read on!

1. The CPU

The CPU is one of the most important parts of your computer. The CPU, which stands for Central Processing Unit, is the microchip that carries out the calculations that are necessary to run the programs on your machine.

While certain other components on this list can be scaled down, or in some cases eliminated completely, your computer can’t run without a CPU. 

An old CPU is one of the most significant bottlenecks that your machine can have. If the CPU is slow, everything else will be slow. Your programs will lag and your machine will take longer to get things done.

If you want to play the latest games, edit photos or videos, or do other complicated operations, a fast CPU is a must. This means that it’s a very common and effective upgrade. 

On top of the CPU, you’ll also find the cooler, another vital component. CPUs can generate a lot of heat, so effective cooling is a must.

2. The Motherboard

The motherboard is even more important than the CPU. This is because the motherboard allows all of the other components to speak to each other.

For your CPU to be able to load up programs from your hard drive, it needs to go through the motherboard. To access the RAM, your other components need the motherboard.

A motherboard is essentially a printed circuit board that all of the other components slot into. Without a motherboard, you can’t do anything.

While you usually only need to upgrade the motherboard if you’re installing newer components, they can also go wrong and require replacement. 

3. Hard Drives and SSDs

Your system needs somewhere to store all the programs and other data that it uses. This is where hard drives and SSDs come in. 

A hard drive is the traditional way to handle bulk storage on your computer. This component is made up of a spinning platter that your computer can read and write with a magnetic needle. The mechanism is fairly similar to how a record player works.

When you want to read or write data, your hard drive needs to spin up so that the needle can carry out the operation in the right spot on the drive. 

SSDs are another bulk storage solution but these are similar to scaled-up flash drives, which means that there are no moving parts in SSDs. As there is no need to spin anything up, these drives are a lot faster than hard drives. 

While they both have the same purpose, the way that they work and their speeds are very different. If you’re looking for a very impactful upgrade, swapping a hard drive for an SSD is one of the best ways to improve your computer’s speed.

4. RAM

Many people refer to your computer’s RAM as “memory,” which can get a little confusing for less-experienced users. While RAM is a type of memory, it’s very different from hard drives and SSDs.

RAM is short-term memory. Your computer uses it to store all of the programs and processes that it’s running right at this second. Due to its very high speed, this allows your computer to do its job far faster.

While you could technically turn on a PC without RAM, it’s not going to work. There are two important factors to consider when it comes to RAM, too. The amount of it and the speed it runs at.

Smaller amounts of RAM with a higher speed could be a better proposition than more memory at a lower one!

5. The Graphics Card

The graphics card, also known as the video card, or GPU, is an important but not always necessary part of your computer. If you’re going to be doing visually intensive tasks, such as gaming or video editing, a graphics card can make things run far faster.

This is because a graphics card comes with its own microchip and memory that focuses on visuals alone, which results in a big performance boost to these tasks.

Some CPUs now come with onboard graphics, known as integrated graphics, which can work in a pinch if you don’t have a graphics card. If you’re a hardcore gamer or need to edit photos or videos, however, a video card is vital.

6. The Power Supply

All of the computer components that we’ve mentioned so far require a consistent power source. The power supply converts AC power from your household sockets into DC power that your components can use. 

Different power supplies can handle different amounts of power, measured in watts, and the amount of power your computer needs will depend on the parts that you have. A gaming PC will need more than a simple office machine, for instance.

Understanding Your Components Is Key to Computer Repair

If you want to be able to solve your common computer issues and carry out basic computer repair, you need to be able to understand your components. We hope that this article has helped you do just that!

However, there are some computer issues that only professionals can fix. If you’re having problems with your machine, we can help you, and are ready and waiting to meet you at any of our stores!

Justin Drake Carroll iPhone

Do You Need a Galaxy S5 Battery Replacement?

Does the battery of your Samsung Galaxy S5 run out quicker than it used to? Does your phone suddenly power off even when everything seems fine?

You may need a new battery.

Find out how to tell if you need a Galaxy S5 battery replacement. Then learn about your options for getting the battery replaced. You’ll have your phone back in top condition before you know it.

How Long Does a Smartphone Battery Last?

A new lithium-ion smartphone battery has a lifespan of around 500 charging cycles under normal conditions. Depending on how often you charge your phone, the battery could last two or three years. However, the battery loses 20-40% of its original capacity after around 300 charging cycles.

Does Battery Drain Mean I Need a Galaxy S5 Battery Replacement?

The Samsung Galaxy battery life is generally quite good. Tests by sites like GSMArena placed the Galaxy S5 among the top flagship smartphones for battery life. If you’re having battery drain issues, you may wonder if the battery is the problem.

Battery drain doesn’t necessarily mean you need a new battery. Software problems are often the issue.

Software Troubleshooting

Rebooting the phone in safe mode is a good way to find out if third-party apps are causing the problem.

Safe mode means that the phone will only let the applications that came with the phone run. If the problem doesn’t happen in safe mode, you should uninstall apps one by one until the source of the problem is gone.

Next, try clearing the cache partition. The system cache is a place in the phone’s memory that stores files that the system needs to load apps efficiently. It often keeps old files after an update, so clearing it regularly can help your phone’s performance.

If Android System is using most of the battery, you should reboot the phone. This should reset any system processes that have stopped correctly managing themselves.

Antivirus apps or third-party task manager apps can also cause problems with battery life. Most people don’t really need them. Uninstalling these apps may improve the battery situation.

Other Possible Issues

Poor mobile network signal or always keeping the WiFi on can drain the battery. So does frequently using the phone as a hotspot or using WiFi Direct.

If you’re still having battery problems, you likely need a new battery.

Other Signs You May Need a New Battery

Battery drain is one of the most obvious signs that your battery is failing. Other problems with your phone’s performance may also be a signal that you need a new battery.

Your phone might be slower to power up or doesn’t charge to 100%. It might shut down unexpectedly even when conditions are normal. If it only stays on while connected to a charger, you almost certainly need a new battery.

If the phone is slower to respond when you tap or apps take longer to launch, these issues can also be related to a failing battery.

When to Replace the Battery Right Away

Some battery issues are a safety hazard and need attention immediately. If the phone heats up while charging or has a swollen battery, it could catch fire or explode.

If you notice either of these issues, turn the phone off and don’t charge it. A swollen battery may cause the phone to feel thicker or to have some distortion on the back of the case.

Lithium-ion batteries have safety measures built into them, so they usually don’t cause damage or injuries. A battery that is overheating or swollen has the potential to be dangerous, though. After powering off the phone, you should have the battery replaced.

Options for Replacing Your Galaxy S5 Battery

For a Galaxy S5 battery replacement, you have two options. You can change the battery yourself or bring the phone to a repair center.

DIY Battery Replacement

Unlike later models of the Samsung Galaxy, the Galaxy S5 has a battery that you can replace yourself. First, shut down the phone.

Next, remove the back cover by gently sliding your fingernail into the seam and pulling it off. You can then take out the old battery and put in a new one. Finally, put the cover back on.

Professional Battery Replacement

You may prefer to have an expert replace your battery. You can use a mail-in repair service or a local repair store.

Having your battery replaced by mail is often quite a slow process. Your phone takes several days to get to the repair center. The battery replacement takes a certain amount of time, and then you wait to get the phone back in the mail.

When you use a local repair shop, you can bring your phone to their location right away. They may be able to look your phone over and replace the battery while you wait. You also usually get a lower price with a local, third-party electronics repair service provider.

Getting a New Samsung Galaxy Battery

The choice of which battery you’ll use to replace your old battery is an important one. If you’re replacing your Galaxy S5 battery yourself, you’ll need to buy a new battery first. If you bring your phone for a professional repair, the repair shop will provide the new battery.

In either case, you want to be sure you’re getting a quality battery. You can get Samsung batteries for an exact replacement. This is usually the most expensive option.

Aftermarket brands are generally less expensive. However, you need to verify that you’re getting a high-quality battery.

Working with a reputable local repair shop is an advantage when it comes to choosing a replacement battery. You can find a shop known for using quality parts and rest assured that you’re getting a reliable battery.

Choosing Your Galaxy S5 Battery Replacement Solution

When you need a Galaxy S5 battery replacement, you want your phone back in top working condition as soon as possible. You want to be sure the replacement is done correctly. You want the best value from your new battery.

Fruit Fixed has been repairing smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy S5 since 2011. We have locations throughout the state of Virginia to handle your battery replacement quickly. We only use the highest quality parts, and we give you the most competitive price.

Find your nearest store and get your Samsung Galaxy S5 battery replaced today.

Justin Drake Carroll Repair

5 General Aspects of Tech Repair

One can argue that mobile devices surpassed laptops in portable computing. Regardless, the fact remains that phones, tablets, and laptops are part of our daily lives. Modern society’s social and economic relations depend on these portable technologies. However, these devices are also fragile and often get broken in many ways. This means tech repair will likely be part of your devices’ lifetime. It also means that having a basic understanding of their parts can help you when you do need repairs.

While mobile devices and laptops are two different categories, they share similar hardware. Read on to know the five general elements of your devices. It allows you to know better about the hardware before bringing them to tech repair.

1. Motherboard/SoC

The motherboard is likely the most important component of a computer. It houses the CPU and GPU. It’s where every other component connects to.

The motherboard lets all these components communicate and work together. The ports outside also connect straight to the motherboard. For both laptops and mobile devices, the motherboard is the last component you want to have water damage.

In laptops, some components like the CPU and GPU come soldered onto the motherboard. Only certain parts like the RAM and HDD are replaceable. It’s because there’s less space for sockets and slots, unlike on a desktop.

Since smartphones and tablets are much smaller, the same compromise applies. Mobile devices come with what’s called a “system on a chip” (SoC).

This one chip integrates all the components like the CPU, GPU, modems, and other parts that make a phone or a tablet work. Tech repair is often trickier for smartphones because of this integration.

The motherboard or SoC also houses memory and storage. Laptops’ memory and storage are larger and are user-replaceable. Mobile devices have smaller built-in RAM and internal storage.

2. Display

A computer can have a range of other output devices like printers and projectors. For laptops, smartphones, and tablets, the most important built-in output device is the display.

Laptop displays can range from 10-inch “netbooks” to large 17 or 18-inch screens. As for resolution, most laptops come with low-res 1366 x 768 screens. Higher resolutions come at full HD or 1920 x 1080 pixels while high-end models can go up to 4k.

Laptops and mobile devices rely on almost the same display types—LCD or LED. LCDs are more common and use a backlight that shines through some filters to create a picture.

Higher-end models often use LED screens. Instead of a backlight that’s always on, an LED display can control individual pixels. It gives the display deeper blacks and more vibrant colors.

For a phone, tablet, and some laptops, the display also doubles as an input device if they have touchscreen capabilities. Modern touchscreens use capacitive technology that measures input with a conductive layer.

3. Input Devices/Sensors

Input devices allow you to interact with your laptop, phone, or tablet. With mobile devices, the main input device is the touchscreen display. With laptops, you’ll have more options, making it a more flexible choice.

Laptops have physical keyboards, touchpads, and can also connect a mouse. Modern tablets can also connect external keyboards and pointing devices like the Apple Pencil for the iPad.

Sensors are also input devices. Smartphones and tablets have a plethora of these built-in.

All smartphones have a main and front-facing camera. Newer models even have over two main cameras.

Biometric sensors like fingerprint scanners are also standard for smartphones. These make smartphones more secure than regular laptops that don’t have biometrics. Also, phones or tablets have over five sensors that accord it with “smartness”.

These devices also have an accelerometer that detects orientation and movement. A gyroscope also measures orientation. A digital compass helps with geolocation.

An ambient light sensor measures surrounding light and adjusts the screen’s brightness accordingly. Finally, a proximity sensor detects if the phone is near your face. During a call, it turns off the display when you bring the phone to your ear.

4. Power/Battery

Laptops, smartphones, and tablets all have an internal battery. Since laptops are more power-hungry, they have larger batteries than mobile devices.

Laptops and mobile devices usually use lithium-ion technology. These can either be removable or non-removable.

Battery capacity, measured in milliamp-hour (mAh), tells you how much charge a battery can hold. Both laptops and mobile devices’ capacities can range between 2,000 to 6,000 mAh.

Smartphones today have more charging options at their disposal. There’s fast charging which can charge a device in an hour. Wireless charging is also becoming more common.

5. Operating System (OS)

The operating system or OS is the software component that starts and runs the computer. Without this, your laptop, phone, or tablet is useless. Since laptops and mobile devices use different architectures, their OS’s are very different.

Most laptops use Microsoft Windows while Apple notebooks use Mac OS. For smartphones and tablets, there’s iOS and Android. Because of their difference, a computer program will be incompatible with a mobile OS.

Computer operating systems are much older, being around for around 30 years. Mobile operating systems are a newer concept, being only over a decade old. Regardless, mobile operating systems are mostly Android-based.

Operating systems are prone to their own class of errors and damages. However, faulty or broken hardware can cause all sorts of OS malfunctions.

Know Your Device Better Before Tech Repair

Laptops, phones, and tablets help us in our everyday activities. Despite their sophistication, they’re prone to all sorts of damages. Knowing the basic components of your devices can help in case you need tech repair.

In general, laptops and mobile devices both have a motherboard. It’s a sensitive and important component that connects or holds all other parts.

They all have a display through which you interact and use the features. Smartphones and tablets in particular have a range of sensors that make them “smart”.

Looking for professionals to repair your device? Our team of experienced and skilled technicians can help. Select your desired device and get in touch with us today!

Justin Drake Carroll Laptops

Laptop Dust Cover vs. Hard Shell Case: What’s the Best Protection?

Laptops aren’t just an investment; they’re a big part of everyday life. Whether you work on your laptop or use it to play games after a long day, it’s important that you keep your computer safe and sound. But with so many case types and options, how can you be sure what’s right for you? Do you need a laptop dust cover or just a sleeve?

The type of case you choose will depend on your habits, budget, and needs, and we’re here to help you sort it out. 

If you’ve been looking for a guide on how to choose the best laptop cover, look no further! Below we break down the differences between dust covers and protective cases and describe which may be the best option for you. 

Keep reading if you ready to protect your investment and prolong the life of your laptop!

Types of Laptop Covers

The first step to protecting your laptop is understanding your options. There are many choices, each with its own price range and benefits.

Let’s take a look at some of the different types of protection you can buy today. 

Hard Shell Cases

Hardshell cases are typically made of plastic and snap onto your laptop. They come as two separate pieces and do not usually add any protection to the screen or keyboard. 

This case is ideal for protecting your laptop from falls or other types of external injury. Hardshell cases absorb much of the impact, helping prevent problems like laptop cracked screens. 

Hardshell cases are popular because they come in a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing you to customize your device while protecting it at the same time. 

Unlike other types of laptop protection, hardshell cases must be sized correctly to your device. If you would like to purchase one, you need to know the make and model of your laptop. 

If not, you can end up with a case that doesn’t fit or have the correct openings for ports and buttons. 

Sleeves

Laptop sleeves are typically made of fabric, foam, and other soft materials.

Designed only for protection while you’re not using it, sleeves are like soft envelopes you slip your laptop into. This requires that your device be closed, making sleeves ideal for travel and storage. 

Some users also like to use their laptop sleeves as a type of cushion, placing their device on top of it while they work to protect from scratches.

One of the best aspects of laptop sleeves is that they’re easy to buy. They come in a few different sizes, and all you need to do is ensure your devices fit in comfortably. The exact make and model don’t matter when buying a laptop sleeve. 

Like hardshell cases, sleeves also come in many colors and designs. 

Laptop Dust Covers

When discussing dust covers, there are few things that can be included.

The less used is the type of dust cover that can be placed over a laptop or computer during long periods of disuse. This dust cover does exactly what it sounds like and protects the laptop from accumulating dust. 

The more common form of a laptop dust protection cover is one that covers the keyboard of your laptop. This thin product conforms to the buttons of your laptop, allowing you to type with ease. 

At the same time, your keys are protected from liquid, dust, or other materials falling into their delicate inner parts. 

Like hardshell cases, you need to make sure the dust cover you purchase is for the correct make and model. 

Which Case Should You Use?

When it comes to protecting your computer, you shouldn’t go minimal. With just a few relatively inexpensive purchases, you can help ensure that your device is protected from harm.

We recommend using a combination of products to keep your laptop safe. Using both a hardshell case and a dust cover is the best way to cover all your bases. 

The hard case will protect your laptop from falls, bumps, and other damaging strikes. At the same time, the dust cover will act as a barrier from liquid and dust, keeping your keyboard in tip-top shape.

If you often travel or bring your laptop to work or school, a sleeve is a small investment that will bring you peace of mind. 

So if you’re looking to keep your device safe, having more than one form of protection is the best way to do that. The best part is that none of these purchases need to be expensive. 

If you’re looking to ensure that you buy quality products, read any reviews you can and keep an eye on prices.

Cheaper cases are less likely to be effective, so it’s best to shoot for something that is competitively priced. You don’t have to break the bank to protect your laptop, but you don’t want to trust a cheap product either. 

Once you have a case and a keyboard cover for your device, you can rest assured your laptop is protected. 

Protect Your Laptop

The world has moved online, and chances are you do school or work from a laptop these days. If so, then you know how important it is that you keep your computer safe and sound. 

By purchasing a case or laptop dust cover, you help protect yourself against cracks and accidents. While no case is indestructible, taking precautions is always a good idea.

Having a tech emergency? Reach out to our skilled team today for repairs and advice on everything from gaming consoles to tablets!

Justin Drake Carroll MAC

Mac Repair: 4 Signs You Need to Repair or Replace Your Mac

In the first quarter of 2021 alone, Apple shipped some 6.7 million Mac computers. That’s a staggering 111.5% increase from its shipments back in the first quarter of 2020. That’s incredible, considering how Macs are far costlier than typical computers.

One reason folks pay for that kind of money is the proven longevity of Mac computers. Apple says that most first-time owners keep their Macs for at least four years. In fact, the company claims its products last longer than that.

Still, that doesn’t mean you wouldn’t need Mac repair services ever. As reliable as Apple computers are, their hardware will wear out over time. Apps and software can also develop bugs that can impair the performance of Macs.

So, in this guide, we’ll talk about the top signs indicating you need to get your Mac fixed or replaced. Read on to learn the steps you can take before these issues take a turn for the worse.

1. Keyboard Problems

Erratic character duplication, sticky keys, and irresponsive buttons are common butterfly keyboard issues. They’re so prevalent that Apple acknowledged it might be their fault. As such, the company apologized for its dust-prone and problematic super-thin keyboard.

As part of Apple’s apology, it came up with the Keyboard Service Program. These include early 2015 MacBook units to 2019 MacBook Pro models. Eligible units can get service for free, so long as the issue is only due to a defective butterfly keyboard.

If your Mac laptop has water damage, though, then it may no longer qualify for that program. A water-damaged laptop keyboard can act the same way as a faulty butterfly keyboard.

If you have keyboard woes, have your device checked by a local computer repair expert as soon as possible. It may turn out that the technician only needs to fix a few keys and not replace the entire keyboard.

Either way, don’t delay getting your Mac inspected. Otherwise, the damage can spread and render your entire keyboard useless.

2. Mac Gets Really Hot

An overheating computer is one of the common indications of a bad motherboard. Your Mac can get so hot it may even produce smoky or even burning smells. At this point, your computer should make audible whirring noises, a sign that its fan is at work.

If your Mac doesn’t make any sound or makes very loud noises, its fan is likely malfunctioning. Shut down your computer right away, as overheating can fry up its internal components.

Before you switch your Mac back on, check the ambient (room) temperature, too. Apple states that Macs perform best in temperatures between 50° to 95° Fahrenheit.

Any hotter than that and your Mac can overheat. MacBook batteries can also sustain damage when exposed to extreme heat. By contrast, low temperatures can make the battery in a MacBook discharge faster.

Once your Mac doesn’t feel very hot to the touch, try turning it back on. Monitor your device’s temperature, especially while you run memory-intensive programs. If overheating or fan problem persists, it’s time to create a data backup and take your Mac to a repair expert.

3. Screen Issues

If your Mac’s display is too dim, try increasing its brightness first. If the images are too tiny or too large, try adjusting the screen resolution. For a flickering screen on a Mac desktop, be sure your cables are in good condition and plugged in securely.

If none of those tricks work, you likely have broken Mac hardware parts, such as the screen itself. Your screen may have problematic or even dead pixels or fried wires. Get in touch with a Mac repair specialist to inspect your device and get it fixed pronto.

If you have a cracked screen, you should also consider bringing it to a repair tech as soon as possible. It may be best to replace the Mac screen before the damage spreads and worsens. Cracks will get bigger since you always need to put pressure on the screen whenever you close your Mac.

Once the cracks get large enough, you may no longer be able to see what’s on the screen. This can then affect your productivity, which can be a huge issue if you’re in the middle of work.

4. Program Malfunctions

Apps crashing and freezing all the time can signal high Mac memory usage. The programs themselves may be encountering problems, especially if they’re not updated.

High memory usage is bound to occur over time as apps become more sophisticated. The more sophisticated they are, the more resources they need to consume.

The thing is, your Mac’s memory stays constant. So, over time, it will no longer be enough to accommodate your programs’ growing memory needs. If you don’t want to replace your Mac yet, you can install an extra random access memory (RAM) chip.

You should also be careful not to miss crucial macOS and app updates in your Mac. Otherwise, your device can become a hotspot for malware, which can lead to your apps crashing. Worse, your entire Mac can become infected, which can result in your computer crashing.

Do note that malware threats on Macs have become more prevalent over the years. In 2020 alone, threats in Macs grew by 1,100% compared to 2019. Installing anti-malware can help you keep these dangers from taking over your computer.

If you already have severe infections, though, it may be best to bring your Mac to a repair tech. This way, the tech can salvage your existing data while also getting rid of malware in your device.

Don’t Put Off Essential Mac Repair or Part Replacement Services

Prompt Mac repair or part replacement can help extend the life of your Apple computer. Repairs are also more affordable than having to buy an entirely new unit. Besides, fixing your Mac instead of getting a new one can help you reduce your e-waste production.

Is your Mac still acting up even after doing some basic troubleshooting on it? If so, then please know that we here at Fruit Fixed can help. We service numerous locations in Virginia, so get in touch with us, and we’ll be happy to fix your faulty Mac!