Category: Laptops

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!

It’s no secret that computers are one of the most useful tools that have ever been created. This device can easily become damaged if it comes into contact with water, however. If you’re unsure whether or not you’re dealing with laptop water damage, there’s a handful of ways that you can tell. We’ve put together a short guide that details everything you need to know.

Let’s get started.

1. Your Keyboard Doesn’t Work

Occasionally, spilling water on your laptop can result in you severely damaging your keyboard. In most cases, this means that your keys will no longer function properly.

Interestingly, you may also find that only some of your keys are malfunctioning. This can easily become fairly irritating, as you may find yourself in a situation where you are unable to type certain letters.

For those who use their laptops for work-related obligations, the situation can become even more frustrating.

If you share a laptop with a friend or family member and then notice that your keyboard isn’t working correctly, be sure to ask them if they spilled water on the device. Otherwise, the root of the problem could stem from a different issue.

2. You Notice Discoloration or Residue

In order to determine whether or not your laptop has water damage, you may need to remove the back cover. After doing so, you might notice discoloration or residue on its internal components.

This is one of the primary signs that water has been spilled on your computer. Unfortunately, this scenario is relatively serious since discoloration often indicates corrosion.

Under some circumstances, severe water damage could require you to replace most if not all of the internal components. For this reason, it’s imperative that you frequently back up your sensitive information so that you can retrieve it if it becomes inaccessible.

It’s also recommended that you keep the device you archive your data to in a safe location.

3. There Is Liquid Inside of Your Laptop

As you might guess, the presence of liquid inside your laptop is a blatant indicator of water damage. But, you may not be able to tell until you check for it.

To elaborate, let’s assume that’s you were working on a project on your laptop while sitting at the kitchen table in your home. While walking away to handle another responsibility, your 10-year-old niece accidentally spills a cup of water across your entire computer.

She then cleans up the mess and leaves the room before you return. When you sit back down at the table, you notice that your screen is black and that your computer has been turned off.

As you carry your laptop into the living room to connect it to its charger, you notice the presence of standing liquid in between the keys on your keyboard.

Although this is never a positive occurrence, you’ll then better understand the situation and can eliminate other possible causes.

4. You Have Activated Your Water Detection Sticker

It’s not uncommon for computer manufacturers to include a sticker on your device that will change color when it comes in contact with liquid. As previously mentioned, it can sometimes be difficult to discern why your device is not functioning properly.

More often than not, people assume the issue lies with the battery, charging cable, etc.

If you notice that your laptop’s water detection sticker has changed colors, however, you will then know the root of the problem. From here, you can get in touch with a professional in order to schedule the necessary repairs.

For those unaware, it’s inadvisable that you attempt to resolve water damage on your own. The internal components of a laptop are highly sensitive, and you risk damaging them further by utilizing improper repair methods.

For example, some people choose to use a hairdryer on a low heat setting in order to dry the water within their computer.

5. You Experience Screen Issues

When water comes into contact with your laptop, it’s fairly easy for it to cause screen issues. Most commonly, you may notice that certain pixels on your screen display incorrectly.

In this case, they could be white, discolored, etc.

But, you might also notice that your screen simply does not display at all. You may be able to utilize your laptop normally and the audio might work, but the display might not function correctly.

Unless your laptop experienced physical trauma, water damage is likely the culprit. This is especially true if your device is relatively new.

6. Your Computer Does Not Function Properly

Finally, you might notice that your computer simply does not operate how it is supposed to. It may fail to turn on while you hold the power button, function notably slowly, etc.

Although there could be a number of different causes for this type of scenario, water damage is one of the most prominent. As we discussed before, damaging the internal components of your computer can prevent them from working correctly.

So, keep this in mind when determining your next steps.

Laptop Water Damage Is a Serious Issue

So, it’s important that you learn how to recognize it quickly. The above information will help ensure that you understand how to recognize laptop water damage and then take the appropriate course of action.

Want to learn more about what we have to offer? Feel free to reach out to us today and see how we can help.

Have you ever gone through the dreaded experience of thinking your laptop broke? 

The good news is, in some cases, it may just be a screen issue. But how much does a laptop screen replacement cost? Sometimes a laptop repair can be expensive.

Screen breaks happen to the best of us, and while seeking the help of a professional may be your best bet, there are some steps you can take on your own.

Here are five steps to take when it comes to laptop screen replacement.

1. Assess the Damage

If you’re wondering should I get a laptop screen replacement, first things first, you must figure out exactly what is wrong. Also, find out what model laptop you have. The model of your laptop can affect both the cost of the repair and your ability to find the correct parts.

To determine whether or not it’s your screen that broke you’ll want to try turning on the laptop. If you can hear your laptop turning on that’s a good indicator that it’s a hardware issue and not an internal one. However, a computer that refuses to turn on at all means that replacing the screen won’t be enough. 

Additionally, if the graphics card in the laptop is ruined, the screen may not be the issue.

Try hooking your laptop up to a separate monitor. If your laptop screen displays on a separate monitor and functions correctly, then it’s likely that your graphics card is fine and your only worry is that your laptop screen broke.

Some laptops may require you to hit specific function keys on the laptop in order to allow it to display externally, so keep this in mind.

Determine whether your screen has actual physical damage or if it just won’t turn on. A laptop with physical damage can cause more issues when replacing your screen rather than just a black screen being the issue.

Once you’ve determined the extent of the damage as well as what model your laptop is you can begin looking for a screen replacement. 

Keep in mind that fixing a laptop screen can be much harder without the help of a professional, so it’s always better to reach out to an expert if you’re not sure how to fix the issue.

2. Find a Replacement Screen

If you can’t figure out the model of your laptop, the serial number can help ensure you purchase the right screen.

The good news is finding a replacement screen is easy, and you can find the correct screen by doing a simple Internet search using both the model type or serial number and following it with the words LCD screen.

You can find most screens for as low as $50, but it depends on the type of computer you have.

Some sellers won’t use the serial number and instead use different identification numbers relating to the laptop so double-check that you’re choosing the right screen.

You also want to keep an eye out for the video cable on the back of your screen and ensure it matches up with the one on the screen the seller is showing.

3. Gather Supplies and Open the Screen

Before getting started on screen replacement, you’ll want to gather the correct tools. 

Here’s what’s required for most laptop screen repairs:

• Small magnetic Phillip’s screwdriver
• Safety pin
• Putty knife or similar object
• Small bowl

You can also purchase a screen repair kit depending on what model laptop you have. This kit will ensure you have all the required tools to repair the screen.

For most laptops, you can follow the following steps to open the screen:

Remove the Power Sources

Turn off your laptop and make sure it’s not plugged into a power source. This can reduce the risk of possible electric shock.

After you’ve done that removing the battery can avoid causing other issues.

Remove the Stickers and Screws

Once you remove both the power source and battery, use your safety pin to remove the stickers that cover the screws on the screen bezel. There are two of these located near the bottom of your laptop screen. Store these in the bowl because you will need to reuse them.

After you remove the stickers, take your screwdriver to remove the screws. Place these in the bowl as well.

Remove the Bezel

Remove the screen bezel from the back of the screen case using your putty knife. Make sure you’re careful as you’ll reinstall this part.

The bezel is held onto the back of the case with plastic tabs, so don’t be alarmed if you hear snapping plastic during the removal process.

4. Remove the LCD Screen

Once you remove the bezel you’ll have access to the LCD screen.

The LCD screen is secured to a metal frame at both the right and left sides. Two screws at the top corners will have to be removed and then you will be able to lift the LCD screen away from the back of the screen case. In some cases, you may find heavy-duty tape instead of screws.

Set your LCD screen face-down onto the keyboard. Look for the connectors in the center of the screen. These are typically connected with adhesive and will need to be pried from the screen.

5. Install the New Screen

Place your new screen face down like the old one.

At this point, you’ll be able to reattach the video connector and place the cables exactly where they were on the old screen. Then reinsert the screws or tape that were at the top.

Once that’s done, you can put the bezel back on. Line the bezel up to the screen and snap the plastic snaps back into place. Ensure the bezel is lined up and then insert the screws back in. Reattach the stickers with your safety pin.

Once you’ve completed this you can put the battery back into your laptop and power your laptop on.

Laptop Screen Replacement

Going through a laptop screen replacement can be easier than you think, and while it should usually be done by a professional, it doesn’t always have to be.

These five steps explain exactly how you can replace your laptop screen yourself, but if you run into any issues, calling a professional may be your best bet.

To find out about our different locations or get a free estimate for the cost of your laptop repair, contact us today.

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!

The ominously named “black screen of death” is a notorious sign that your Chromebook is experiencing issues. Thankfully, there are several steps you can take to fix and prevent a Chromebook black screen before it’s too late.

Why Does My Chromebook Have a Black Screen?

A wide variety of issues may relate to your Chromebook’s black screen. The first step is to pinpoint the specific issue your Chromebook may be experiencing.

It’s Out of Battery

We’ve all been there. Forgetting to charge your computer, tablet, or phone overnight usually ends with you waking up to a black screen. If your AC adapter has a red light when plugged in, that means the battery is low.

To fix this, plug in your Chromebook and charge it until you see a green LED light. If this doesn’t work, your Chromebook is likely experiencing a different problem.

The Brightness Is Low

Chromebooks have a brightness adjustment feature that lets you turn the screen’s brightness up or down. The lowest brightness level is a black screen.

Press the bigger cogwheel key on your keyboard to turn the brightness up. Your screen should immediately get brighter if this is the problem.

The Screen Is Broken

Your black screen may be due to a damaged Chromebook screen. To check this, connect your Chromebook to an external monitor or TV.

If your Chromebook is working on the external monitor, but not its own screen, that’s an indication the screen is broken. Contact a technician or replace the Chromebook.

It’s Experiencing USB Device Issues

If you have a USB device plugged in, it may be causing problems. If you have a USB device connected to your Chromebook, safely remove it and restart your computer.

It Needs an Update

It’s vital to keep up with Chromebook updates to keep your Chromebook on the latest version of the operating system. These updates often fix bugs and issues, as well as features.

My Screen Is Still Black, Now What?

If you’ve checked your Chromebook’s screen brightness and performed all of the above checks, don’t fret. There are a few restarting options you can perform as a last resort before referring to a professional.

Soft Restart

Perform a simple restart on your computer before any other type of restart. You won’t lose any data or unsaved data in this process.

Hard Restart

If your Chromebook hasn’t shut down in a while, it may need a hard restart. Hold down the power key and the refresh key for around 10 seconds. This will give your computer a hard restart.

Factory Reset

Performing a factory reset on your Chromebook wipes all of the data from your device. To do this, click the taskbar, click “settings,” and click Powerwash Restart.

This process will wipe your computer completely as if you recently bought it. You should only resort to this option as a worst-case scenario.

How to Prevent a Black Screen From Happening Again

Keeping your Chromebook in good condition will ensure it lasts a long time. Here are a few things you can do to prevent future issues.

Keep It From Overheating

Frequently overheated laptops have a shorter lifespan than non-overheated laptops. Chromebooks, like all laptops, should sit on surfaces that allow the fan to circulate. If you rest your Chromebook on your lap or bundle of blankets, it’s more likely to overheat. While overheating isn’t an immediate problem, it could cause problems down the line.

Turn off Your Chromebook Regularly

All computers need rest from time to time. Shutting down your computer clears your RAM, and all open applications are closed. Resetting your Chromebook occasionally will clear out anything that may be slowing it down.

Avoid Spilling Liquids 

Water damage is tricky to fix and may cause significant damage to your computer. Keep open liquid containers far away from your laptop to avoid a spilling catastrophe.

Keep Your Chromebook Updated

Google releases Chromebook system updates frequently—sometimes as often as every few weeks. Chromebooks will usually update on their own, so you don’t have to worry about staying on top of it unless you choose to update your device manually.

Download Reputable Third-Party Apps

While the Chrome Web Store’s applications and extensions are thoroughly vetted and checked by Google, malicious applications can slip through the cracks. Be sure to download browser apps that have good reviews and reasonable permission requirements.

What to Do About a Dead Chromebook

Your Chromebook might also be experiencing internal problems. In this situation, don’t start opening up your Chromebook yourself.

For major issues, a tech repair service is your best bet. Experienced technicians can open up your Chromebook and take a deeper look at the hardware. These professionals use special tools and techniques to avoid damaging the inside of your device. 

However, the “black screen of death” is sometimes an accurate indication of Chromebook death. Like all technology, Chromebooks have a lifespan regardless of how well you take care of it. Chromebook lifespans depend on your Chromebook’s brand and cost.

They typically last around six years. If your Chromebook is around that age, it’s time to consider a replacement.

Before opening your wallet to purchase a replacement, check your Chromebook’s warranty. If your device is under warranty, you may be able to replace it for free.

Making Your Chromebook Last

Like any other device, it’s essential to handle your Chromebook with care. From spills to the dreaded Chromebook black screen, there are plenty of ways your Chromebook gets into harm’s way.

If all else fails, you can access resources and trained professionals who will help you fix your device quickly. If you need a repair service, contact Fruit Fixed today, and we’ll help you get your device working in no time.

Are you wondering if your laptop’s battery is about to go kaput? Do you think it might be time to replace the current battery? If so, then you need to look out for the signs that your battery is wearing out. Fortunately, there are several signs that you can use to determine when to replace laptop battery. Knowing these signs ahead of time can help you understand when to start looking into new batteries in the first place.

See below for several key indications that your laptop’s battery needs to be replaced. Be sure not to ignore the signs.

1. Power Fluctuation

Have you noticed that your laptop’s power is fluctuating like crazy? Even after being fully charged, the battery quickly gets reduced to 50, 25, and even 10-percent power. Maybe it continues to shut down at unexpected moments

Be sure to take notice of how frequently this happens. The more that it occurs, the quicker you need to replace it. It’s only a matter of time before the power shuts off before you get the chance to save an important file if that hasn’t happened already.

After the laptop turns off, recharge the battery right away. If problems persist, then you can bet the battery is what’s causing the shutdown. 

if you’re unsure whether the battery is the cause, be sure to reach out to a trusted repair shop and see if they can determine what’s causing the problem.

2. Your Computer Has Been Warning You

It doesn’t matter what brand of PC that you have, they will all try to give you a warning when your battery isn’t performing as needed.

While Windows and Apple won’t necessarily send you a notification about your battery giving out, it will give you other signs.

On an Apple device, you’ll notice that the battery icon at the top right of your screen will turn red once it’s at or below 20-percent. This is what’s referred to as “reserved battery power” and will help prevent your battery from shutting off too quickly.

For those of you with a Microsoft device, you’ll notice that the battery icon gets a giant red “X” through it whenever the battery is inefficient. Not only is this a sign that your battery is about to die, but that you should consider replacing it in the near future as well.

Remember, your software will try to warn you about the condition of your laptop’s battery, but you’re the one that will have to make that call.

3. Takes Forever to Charge

Maybe you have the opposite problem: your battery works fine when it’s fully charged, but the challenge is getting it to actually charge.

Whenever the battery charging time starts to lengthen, it should be considered a warning sign that the battery is nearing the end of its life.

The slow charging time could be a few different things. It could be that the battery needs to be replaced, you’re using a faulty power cord, or your software is malfunctioning. The former is the most likely scenario.

The next time that you go to connect your laptop to its power cord, be sure to monitor how long it takes for the laptop to acknowledge it. If it’s delayed, then the battery has probably overheated and is causing further complications for the entire system.

4. Computer Gets Hot Often

Many people these days prefer to forego the common office desk or table and set their laptops on their lap instead. However, in doing so, you might actually be causing your battery to overheat on a frequent basis. 

Laying your computer on your lap or on a blanket hinders the system’s ability to provide airflow for the battery. The fan in your computer will be forced to work twice as hard in order to keep the system cool.

If you’re going to be placing your computer on your lap often, be sure to alternate between lap and cold desk surface.

So, how do you know when your laptop is overheating? The most noticeable sign is the temperature of the bottom of it. If it’s hot, then it’s overheating. If it’s warm, then it’s getting to that point quickly.

Second, your laptop will start to make louder noises as the fan tries to cool down the system as best it can. 

If the computer gets overheated rather quickly, then it’s a sign that you need to replace your battery soon.

5. It’s Aging Quickly

If you’ve had your computer or laptop for 2 to 3 years without ever replacing the battery, then it’s final days are approaching quickly.

The older the battery is, the more difficulties you’ll have with it along the way. As soon as you replace it, you’ll notice that your laptop regains it’s speed, power, and durability.

Too many people make the mistake of replacing the laptop rather than the battery. Be sure to consult with a repair expert to see which one they recommend.

If you’re experiencing more complications than the battery, then getting a brand-new laptop might make sense. Otherwise, you can save a lot of money by switching out the battery rather than paying for an entirely new computer.

Now You Know When to Replace Laptop Battery

Now that you’ve seen the telltale signs of when to replace laptop battery, it’s important that you consider the signs your laptop has given you.

Be sure to read this page to learn more about Fruit Fixed and how when can help you determine whether you need to replace your battery or not.

For more inquiries, please be sure to reach out via our contact us page and we will be happy to assist you further.

We depend on our laptops to work every time we need to use it. When it doesn’t turn on, it can feel as if we are having a heart attack. Our minds work on overdrive as we sort what could be wrong.

Power issues aren’t uncommon for laptop owners, but that doesn’t make it any less frightening. You always wonder if you can fix it each it happens. 

There are a few issues your prized possession may not work. If you’re not sure which problem you’re experiencing, check these tips to learn how to fix a laptop that won’t turn on. 

How to Fix a Laptop That Won’t Turn on

There are a few of the same phases every laptop goes through if it won’t power. No matter what brand or type of laptop you have you can try any of these tips to see if they help you.

If your laptop won’t start, start with the first method and work your way down or try one you believe will help.

Look at Your Power Supply 

You might think this is an obvious method to mention, but sometimes that’s the only problem. We all have those moments where we fail to do something we always do.

A cord could be loose which causes the laptop to force shut down for what you believe to be an unknown reason. If the LED light for the power cord is on, check to see if the power button works too.

Checking your cord can also tell you if the problem is with the power supply itself. Wires that are tangled and bent create weak points that damage the power supply over time. If there is something wrong with the cord, you can verify this by testing your laptop with another cord with the same voltage. 

Remove the Battery and Anything Inside Your PC 

If the battery overheats, it’s enough of a reason for your laptop to not want to power. Feel your battery to check if it’s hot to the touch. Allowing the hot battery time to cool off can work when it overheats. 

Other times, just taking out the battery and popping it back it does the trick. The PC may not turn on due to USB drives or memory cards stuck in the port. You might be able to verify this if your computer leaves an “Operating system not found” error message. 

If a memory card or USB is left in the system, the BIOS attempts to boot from either instead of the hard drive. The same happens with CDs left are inside the computer so take them out. 

See If It’s the Monitor

Your computer itself might be on, but the problem could be your monitor. Light is needed to display the screen. It will appear black if it stops working. First, try disconnecting all wires for display and plugging them back in. 

In the event the LED light shows and you can hear the laptop fan, your computer itself works. It could be a brightness setting issue you need to readjust. If all you get is a faint image, then the inverter might be the problem and you need to replace it.

Your LCD panel could be the culprit if the PC starts up. but nothing displays at all. You would have to get another screen in this situation.  

Startup in Safe Mode

You might see the “Blue Screen of Death” upon startup and get nowhere beyond this point. Seeing this means you have a hardware, application, or driver issue.

Press “F8” when you see the blue screen to access safe mode. Your PC only runs important drives in this mode so you can uninstall the hardware or application that is causing your PC to refuse to startup. You can also fix your PC by running system restore. 

Use a Rescue Disk

Another alternative is to boot with a reuse disk or USB drive if you own one. You could also download a recovery disk from another PC then burn it on CD or USB. Once you insert one of the two, try to boot your PC again. 

The same can be done with a MAC. Just remember when you’re using a recovery disk to put your PC into recovery mode. 

Check for Possible Hard Drive Corruption

There’s a chance the problem with your computer lies in the hard drive. Even if your hard drive is corrupted, the data is often still intact. However, you would need to resolve an altered update or file that is making your PC go haywire.

On Windows, you should boot your PC in safe mode and go to “Advanced Options” and click on “Startup Settings.” Your computer should scan, find, and ideally, repair what’s wrong. It could be a number of things like a virus. 

On a MAC, you will follow something similar by opening the folder to repair disk permissions. If there’s really a corruption issue, you would need to click on “verify disk.” 

Switch Hard Drive to Another PC  

If nothing works, there is a final option you can do to at least access your precious data. This requires the most PC knowledge as you’re going to have to deconstruct your PC to remove the hard drive. 

If you can do this, you can save any important data before sending it to a computer shop for repair. So long as there isn’t a problem with the motherboard, you can fix your PC by resolving the startup complication. 

Finding Solutions to Problems 

There are a number of methods you may need to do to sort your computer problem. The real resolution comes when you can identify what the issue is. Once you do that, you can find out how to fix a laptop that won’t turn on. 

The level of difficulty varies from person to person, but most people give up when the steps become too complex. Most fear creating another issue in an attempt to fix the original problem. 

If you did everything you could and require professional assistance, send your device to us. We offer a low price guarantee to our customers in Virginia who want a quote and repair.

Feel free to drop by one of our locations, like Carytown, and a specialist can work with you. Your computer can work once more like before.  

We all love our cold drinks, well almost. For sure, your laptop doesn’t. 

What’s worse is the panic that sets in after the spill happens, imagining that the water-damaged laptop is a goner. 

As they say, every minute counts, and the clock is ticking. Here, with a little luck, you’ll discover a few ways to get your laptop running again in no time. 

What’s the Risk?

No matter what you’ve spilled – coffee, soda, or water, any liquid can destroy your laptop’s keyboard. Still, as you sit thinking what you should do, the menacing liquid is seeping through to the motherboard, memory, and circuits. You may even be able to hear an ominous crackling as this happens. 

Of course, you may have a model specifically built to resist this kind of damage, but most models are not. Now is the time to take action before it’s too late. 

First Steps to Save A Water-Damaged Laptop

Here you have two goals. The first is to stop the liquid, the particles, and sediments from bridging an electrical connection. Besides, we want to prevent any corrosion to the circuits and metallic parts inside the laptop. 

Power Off or Power Down 

First, unplug the laptop before anything else and hold down the power button for five to ten seconds or until it turns off. If the battery is removable, take it out to avoid the liquid reaching it and causing it to short out.

Dry and Drain

Blot any visible liquid from the surface of the keyboard with a cloth or paper towel. 

Open the laptop as far as it goes and tilt it onto its side to allow the liquid to drain out. The next step is to put it upside down on a table or counter to allow the liquid to seep out. Let the laptop drain overnight, but some experts suggest 48-72 hours is better.  

If you have a blow dryer or can borrow one, put it on the coldest setting or use a can of compressed air to dry out all hard to reach places. Carefully dry the laptop while it is still upside down so that the liquid continues to drain.

Remove Everything

Remove all removable components, this includes the battery, mouse, cd drive, and any flash drives. Don’t leave anything attached at all—strip it bare. 

If you are at ease with opening up your computer, take off the cover. Usually, you’ll require a Phillips or Torx screwdriver to do this. To remove the memory, you press the side clips to release each stick. 

There will be more screws to free it from the frame to remove the solid-state drive or hard drive. Carefully detach it from all electrical and data connection ports or cables.

Examine each item that you remove and look for any indication of wetness or damage. If the component is damp, wipe it off. If there is any debris or liquid other than water, you will want to use a cotton swab with 99% Isopropyl alcohol which will dissolve it without causing any damage. It will evaporate, and there won’t be any residue left behind. 

Wipe Everything

Wipe all the components you removed from the laptop dry. Once the laptop has dried, reattach everything, and power it on. If it starts with no problems, then try a couple of programs and test any external drives or devices to be sure that it is all working correctly. 

What If It Doesn’t Start?

While we hope for the best when these types of accidents occur, there is always a risk that we won’t get the result we hope we will. If, after the laptop has had sufficient time to dry, it doesn’t power or has other problems; then, it’s time to head to a professional.

The bad news is that most warranties won’t cover liquid damage. If that is your situation, be prepared to pay out of pocket.

Five General Ways to Protect Your Laptop From Damage

With changes in technology and more people working remotely, the use of internet devices and laptops, in particular, is growing. We all know that without these gadgets, it is impossible to complete the work we need to accomplish. Here we are providing some helpful suggestions on keeping your laptop free from harm. 

1. Use a Laptop Bag

Using a bag made for carrying a laptop will protect it against being jostled and possibly falling. With so many styles available, you’ll be making a fashion statement at the same time. 

When shopping for one, look for the ones with padding and a built-in wallet that lets you store flash drives, an external backup drive, and more.

2. Use Exterior Covers 

Find an excellent computer cover, they’re not only attractive but also keep your laptop protected. These covers are great for preventing scratches, dust, water, or other damages while keeping your computer looking good.

3. Avoid Consuming Beverages While Working

It’s always best to avoid drinking while you are working on a laptop. If a spill does occur as we reviewed above, irreparable harm can occur. If you must drink something while working, buy a sturdy leak proof travel cup. 

Always try to be careful when eating or drinking while working to protect your computer from harm. 

4. Keep It From Falling

Prevent your laptop from falling or getting thrown. Your computer isn’t made for balancing precariously, and a fall can damage the motherboard, hard drive, or screen and that can be expensive to repair. 

5. Cleaning and Maintenance

Gentle cleaning with a soft cloth will help remove dust, so the ports and vents don’t become clogged. A can of compressed air is also useful for this. If the vents get clogged, it can cause severe damage. 

Fixing a Water Damaged Laptop

Spilling anything on your computer is a stress-filled experience that can lead to the loss of the device that you use for working. A water damaged laptop requires your immediate action if you are intent on saving it. If after all your efforts, you’re unable to power on or find there are problems when you do, the professionals at Fruit Fixed can help.

Give them a call as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. 

Did you know that Google sold over 55 million Chromecast and Chromecast built-in devices? It’s one of the most popular options for people who don’t have a Smart TV.

Owning this device can be a blessing since you can stream different shows with it. But if your Chromecast keeps disconnecting, it can become problematic. If it keeps happening, your indoor experience becomes unsatisfying.

Don’t give up yet. With Chromecast not working, we put together an article with tips on solving the most common issues for the device:

1. Give the Chromecast a Factory Reset

A guaranteed method of fixing most issues of a Chromecast is to use its factory reset function. Regardless of the model, every Chromecast comes with a factory reset button. It’s often near the power port, and the best part is that the process remains consistent across different models.

To do this, ensure that your Chromecast has power. After that, hold the factory reset button down for about 25 seconds. To know when to let go, look at the LED light on your Chromecast, which will start blinking orange while the reset process is in progress.

Once the light turns into solid white, you can let go of the button. Plug your Chromecast into your television to confirm the reset. If it’s successful, the setup screen will greet you once more.

After resetting the Chromecast, you need the Google Home app. That way, you can finish the setup steps and return your desired settings.

2. Power-Cycling Your Modem or Router

If the factory reset isn’t working and your Chromecast won’t stay connected to Wi-Fi, your Wi-Fi network might be the problem. The next step on your troubleshooting process is to power-cycling your modem and wireless router. Power-cycling the modem is a common fix for most connectivity issues, and it’s easy to do.

First, unplug your modem and wait for 30 seconds. This ensures that your connection undergoes its full reset process. Once done, plug it back in and wait for the entire power-up/reconnection to finish.

Set up and stream using your Chromecast as soon as the Wi-Fi returns. Check whether that fixed the issue. Otherwise, proceed with the other troubleshooting steps.

3. Ensure You’re Using the Right Power Supply

Most TVs come equipped with a USB port, and it’s often near the HDMI inputs on its backside. It might seem logical and time-saving to plug your Chromecast into that port. That way, you’ll use the television as its power supply.

This setup can work in most cases, but it depends on the brand and model of your TV. Sometimes, your Chromecast will turn off on its own since the television has no consistent power output. When you turn your television off, the Chromecast also shuts down.

With this setup, the Chromecast will constantly reboot whenever you turn on your TV. Sometimes, the process takes a few minutes to finish. That’s why Google recommends the original power supply that came with the original package.

If you still have this power supply, plug it into the nearest outlet or power bar. It can add to the cables you’ll manage behind your home’s entertainment center. But the trade-off is that your Chromecast will work and run properly.

4. Prioritize Your Chromecast by Using Your Router’s QoS Settings

If your Chromecast has an inconsistent streaming quality, it might mean other network-connected devices are sucking up the bandwidth. Routers treat data consistently, regardless of the activities by your home devices.

Whether you’re watching a YouTube video with your tablet, playing online games on PCs, or downloading files using torrents, the network gives the same priority. The good news is that most routers manufactured today have Quality of Service (QoS) settings. This enables you to adjust the priority of devices within your network.

Depending on the brand of your modem, the name might vary. Regardless, it will require you to go to your router’s default IP address to access your QoS settings. But if you want a more permanent solution, upgrade to Google Wi-Fi, a mesh system with features that aid in these situations.

5. Check Whether Your Network Operates at 2.4GHz

Another reason for your Chromecast not working is your router’s signal settings. Wi-Fi networks have two frequency bands: 2.4GHz and 5GHz. Chromecast will only function on the former.

Having to set a specific frequency can be annoying. The trade-off is that 2.4GHz is superior when used by a streaming gadget. The reason is because of its better ability to go through solid objects.

To set your frequency, go to your router settings and look at its current frequency. Pick the 2.4GHz option for your Chromecast. If you’re unsure how to do this, look at the bottom of the router to see the instructions.

Depending on your router’s capabilities, you can leave your other devices operating using the 5GHz network. To do this, look for the “Enable guest mode” option and check it during your Chromecast’s setup process.

This also applies to mobile phones. Not all of them access the Internet the same way. Check out our guide here to learn more, especially if you own a Google Pixel.

6. Update Your Modem’s Firmware

If your Chromecast isn’t connecting properly, it might be because of your modem’s outdated firmware. To check this, look at your modem’s settings menu and check whether you have a notification concerning a firmware update. Click it and start updating your firmware to its latest version.

This solution is still valuable even if it doesn’t fix your Chromecast problem. With the latest modem firmware updates, your network security will see improvements. That means external threats are less likely to compromise your network and devices.

Chromecast Not Working? Try Our Repair Services Today!

These are some solutions to your Chromecast problems. These are simple fixes since it needs no technical expertise to accomplish. You can do these regardless of the reason for your Chromecast not working. 

Would you rather have professionals fix your Chromecast problems instead? If so, we can help with our repair services. Check out our lowest price guarantee and see how it can make our service cheaper and more manageable for you.