Category: Repair

Computers have become a big part of our lives today, with 95.2 percent of US households expected to own at least one computer in 2022. These machines are a vital part of businesses too. They help get work done smoothly and accurately, besides keeping employees connected with their colleagues throughout the day.

But what happens if your computer is not starting? It can be a frustrating experience, especially if you’re in the middle of working on something important.

Thankfully, there are many simple things you can do to try and fix it. Today’s blog post will go over 10 of the most common things you can do to get your computer started again.

1. Charge the Battery

If your computer isn’t starting, one of the first things you should check is the battery. If it’s completely drained, your computer won’t boot up. Letting the battery charge for a few minutes can often solve the problem. 

This is just one of the advantages of using a laptop over a desktop computer. You can take it with you and use it almost anywhere. You don’t have to worry about being tethered to a power outlet. And if your battery does die, you can usually get back up and running again in a matter of minutes. 

Of course, it could be that the battery itself is too old and needs replacing, especially if it has been 2-4 years since you bought your laptop. Performing this easy upgrade can help minimize boot up issues in the future.

2. Try Using a Different Power Cable

Sometimes, a computer won’t start because of a problem with the power cable. If you have a laptop, you can try to wiggle the power cord where it plugs into the computer. If this doesn’t work, try plugging it into a different outlet. 

If you have a desktop computer, try unplugging and replugging the power cord from the back of the CPU. You can also try plugging it into a different power source. If these don’t work, you may need to replace your power cord. 

Fortunately, power cords are relatively inexpensive and easy to find yourself. Simply find a reputable store that sells computer parts and choose a new power cord.

3. Check Your Display

Check if your computer display is working by looking for any error messages that may pop up on the screen. The boot-up process has probably just gotten stuck if you don’t see any error messages. In this case, you can try restarting your computer or checking to see if there are any loose cables. 

However, if you see blue screening or an error message, the issue is likely driver corruption. This means that the files that help your computer run properly are either missing or damaged. 

Driver corruption can often be fixed by reinstalling the driver, which you can do by going to the manufacturer’s website and downloading the latest drivers for your computer model.

4. Reseat the Computer Hardware Inside

One possible reason your computer isn’t starting could be due to loose hardware. Inside your computer, there are a variety of components that need to be properly seated for the machine to function. If any of these components have come loose, it could explain why your computer isn’t starting up. 

The solution, then, is to open up your computer and reseat all of the hardware. This simply means taking out each component and putting it back in its rightful place. Once you’ve done this, try starting up your computer again. 

The problem will have been solved, and you’ll be back to working or playing in no time.

5. Check the BIOS

A problem with the BIOS can also cause boot-up issues. The BIOS is a basic input-output system that helps control how your computer starts up.

You can access the BIOS by pressing a certain key when your computer first turns on. Once you are in the BIOS, you can check the boot sequence to ensure that your computer is booting from the correct drive. 

You can also reset the BIOS to its default settings if you have changed anything and saved it incorrectly. Suppose you are still having issues after exploring the BIOS. In that case, there is likely a more serious issue with your computer, and you should take it to a professional for further diagnosis.

6. Scan for Viruses

One potential cause of your computer not starting properly is software corruption due to malware issues. You can diagnose the issue by scanning for viruses using a live CD. This will allow you to boot into a safe environment and run a virus scan without the worry of infecting your operating system. 

If you suspect that your computer has been infected with malware, this is an essential step in removal. Even if you don’t think your computer is infected, running a virus scan can rule out malware as the cause of your startup issue and help you focus on other potential causes.

If you do discover that the boot-up problem was the result of malware, you can avoid it in the future by updating your Mac regularly. 

7. Remove Unnecessary Accessories

Boot-up problems are often caused by too many accessories attached to the computer. If your computer is not starting, try removing unnecessary accessories, such as printers, scanners, or external hard drives. Once you have removed all unnecessary accessories, restart your computer and see if the problem has been resolved. 

If the boot-up issue persists, another cause may need to be addressed. However, simply removing unneeded accessories is enough to get the computer up and running again in many cases.

Know What to Do When Your Computer Is Not Starting

There are several reasons your trusty computer is not starting as it usually does. However, each of these issues is fixable, from a drained battery to a virus infection. Use the tips we’ve shared here to troubleshoot the issue and get your computer back on track.

Is your computer giving you problems? Get in touch with us today to book a repair.

Very few things are as annoying as a sluggish PC. Unfortunately, that’s something most people have to contend with every day.

It’s worse for businesses because slow computers hurt productivity. In fact, businesses lose about $4,980 per employee because of slow computers.

The good news is that dealing with a slow PC is completely optional. There are plenty of things you can do to improve your PC’s performance. If you’ve been struggling with a slow PC, we’re here to help.

In today’s post, we’ll be discussing some of the most effective ways to quickly improve your PC performance. That way, you can enjoy a smooth and speedy computing experience.

Remove Bloatware and Unwanted Programs

The first thing you want to do is remove any bloatware on your PC. Bloatware is any piece of unnecessary software that comes pre-installed on your PC. These can take up valuable space and resources, which slows down your machine.

Removing any bloatware is as easy as going to your PC’s Control Panel and looking for the “Add/Remove Programs” or “Uninstall a Program” section. In the drop-down list, find the programs you want to remove and click “Uninstall.” If that doesn’t work, you can download a third-party cleanup program to help you out.

Scan and Remove Malware

Malware is a type of malicious software that disrupts the normal functioning of your PC. It can come in the form of viruses, worms, Trojans, and much more. Not only is malware a nuisance, but it can also lead to serious security threats.

Malware could be the reason why your PC’s performance is so lackluster, but it’s hard to tell. The only way to know if your PC has viruses is to check for viruses using a trusted anti-malware program. These programs will scan your machine for any malware and remove it safely.

Once you’ve removed any malware, be sure to run a full scan of your PC with your security program to make sure that all the threats have been taken care of.

Limit Startup Processes

Does your computer take ages to boot? If it does, it could be because of too many startup processes. When you turn on your computer, a lot of programs automatically start up as well. This can be anything from your antivirus software to Dropbox.

While some of these programs are essential, others are not. Having too many startup processes can significantly slow down your machine. To fix this, open the “System Configuration” tool and go to the “Startup” tab.

Here, you can disable any programs that you don’t want to start up automatically. Be sure to only disable programs that you don’t need running when you start your computer.

Get Rid of Old Files

“Digital hoarding” is a terrible habit that could slow down your computer’s performance. Digital hoarding is the habit of storing too many files on your computer, even those you don’t need. This only takes up your PC’s space and hurts its performance.

If you want to improve your machine’s performance, it’s time to declutter your PC. Go through your files and folders and delete anything that you don’t need. This includes old photos, videos, documents, and more.

Again, if you don’t want to do it manually, you can use a third-party clean-up tool. Once you’ve cleared out the clutter, you’ll be surprised at how much faster your computer runs.

Add RAM

RAM, or Random Access Memory, is a volatile type of storage that holds programs’ data while they run. When you close the program, all its data gets wiped off the RAM.

That said, the more RAM you have, the more programs you can run on your PC simultaneously. Most people can’t run more than two programs on their PCs without them freezing. If this describes you, adding extra RAM will solve all your problems.

If you don’t know how to install RAM chips on your PC, get a professional to help you out. Otherwise, you may end up damaging your PC.

Disable Background Applications

Background applications are programs that run in the background, even when you’re not using them. Although subtle, these background apps are detrimental to your PC’s performance. If you want better performance from your PC, consider disabling them.

It’s worth noting that not all background applications are unnecessary. Disabling all background applications might do more harm than good. Thankfully, your PC lets you decide which apps you want to disable.

To disable these applications, go to your “Task Manager” and click on the “Startup” tab. Here, you’ll see all the applications that start up when you boot your machine.

From here, you can disable any application that doesn’t need to run in the background. Once you’ve made your changes, restart your PC and see how it performs. You can also run a performance test to check if you

Delete Cookies and Browsing History

Some folks don’t need a blog post to tell them to delete their browsing history, ahem! If you’re not one of them, you should know that cookies and browsing history could be slowing down their PCs.

When you visit a website, it stores a small amount of data called “cookies” on your machine. Over time, these cookies can accumulate and take up space on your hard drive. Additionally, your browsing history can also bloat up over time and affect your PC’s performance.

That said, it’s a good idea to delete your cookies and browsing history every once in a while. Doing so will free up some space on your hard drive and potentially improve your machine’s performance.

Take Your Machine for Repairs and Tune-Ups

If your PC is still running slow, it might be time to take it for repairs. A professional can diagnose any hardware or software issues that might be causing your machine to underperform.

Additionally, they can also tune up your PC to help it run faster and smoother. Although you’ll have to pay for these services, they’re worth it if you want to get the most out of your machine.

Improve Your PC Performance Today!

There are many ways you can improve your PC performance. Try some of the tips and tricks mentioned above and see how they work for you. With a little effort, you can get your PC running like new in no time!

Still having trouble? Bring your PC to the professionals at Fruit Fixed for a diagnostic and repair at a location near you.

47% of people are embarrassed by their cracked iPhone screen. After all, it looks unprofessional and can even be dangerous, since you can cut yourself on the broken glass. You want to get it fixed as soon as possible, but what if the budget is tight this month? Since smartphone repair is a sudden expense you might not have budgeted for, it can be sometimes hard to finance the repair cost.

However, you have more finance options than you may think! To learn more, keep reading to find seven of the most practical ways to finance your smartphone maintenance, so your iPhone or Android looks as good as new in no time!

1. Use Your Credit Card

If you’re in desperate need of electronic help, one of the easiest ways to pay for your smartphone repair is with your credit card. Most of us have a credit card that we only use for emergencies, but a damaged phone definitely counts as an emergency!

We depend on our phones for work, connecting with loved ones, and even navigation to and from new places, so having a functional phone is essential to daily life as we know it.

If you’re worried about your credit card bill, aim to pay it off as soon as you can, once your next paycheck comes in.

Or, if you don’t have a credit card, it might be worth opening one to get your phone fixed quickly. Repairing a damaged phone will almost always be cheaper than purchasing a new phone outright, so you’re still coming out ahead and limiting how much you charge on your new card.

2. Ask a Friend or Relative for a Loan

It’s not an option for everyone, but sometimes you can finance your smartphone repair with help from a relative or friend. If they’re willing to loan you the money, this is a helpful way to get your device repaired quickly.

Just be sure to confirm the repayment terms in advance, so both parties know what’s expected of them. And always honor your deal, making sure you pay back your friend or relative as soon as you can.

One big advantage of a personal loan from someone you know and trust is that they generally won’t ask for interest, which will save you money in the long run.

3. Sell Some Unwanted Gear

If you love your smartphone, chances are that you have plenty of other electronic devices as well. However, many of us have old electronics that we’ve since upgraded, but no longer use.

Could you consider selling a few of your unwanted electronics? This can be an effective way to get cash fast and you can sell online on sites like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or Amazon.

It helps to concentrate on the gadgets with the highest resale values, like game consoles, iPads, Google Chromecast, and any vintage audio equipment, like record players.

Or, you could take them to a pawn shop, but they don’t always offer the most competitive prices.

4. Take Out a Personal Loan

Sometimes, smartphone maintenance and repairs come at the most inconvenient times, so if the money just isn’t in the bank, consider taking out a personal loan.

Many banks and private lenders will offer personal loans, even if your credit isn’t perfect. However, your bank is the best starting point, as they’ll usually have the most competitive rates.

5. Consider a Payday Advance

If you need a smartphone repair done as soon as possible, there’s not always time to wait for Friday’s paycheck. For urgent repairs, consider getting a payday advance to cover the cost.

Sometimes, your employer may be willing to help with this, as long as you’re a trusted employee. Or, consider a payday advance or loan.

Quite a few companies advertise and offer payday loans, but be sure to read the fine print first. This is because some offer high interest rates, so be sure to get the best possible rate—and then pay it off as soon as you can.

6. Ask About Payment Plans

Some repair companies might offer payment plans, allowing you to pay for the repairs in installments. While not always possible, it never hurts to ask and could help you pay for your repairs over time.

7. Trade in an Older Smartphone

When you bought your current smartphone, which now needs repairs, what did you do with your current previous smartphone? If you still have it, and it’s in working order, you might be able to sell it or trade it in.

Many electronics shops will buy pre-owned mobile phones that are still working, so consider selling yours if you need money to finance your repair. Generally, the newer the smartphone, the more value it has.

As a last resort, you might be able to move your SIM card into your old phone until you have the money to repair your new phone. 

Contact Us for All of Your Smartphone Repair Needs

If your smartphone, tablet, laptop, or other tech gear is in need of some urgent repair, Fruit Fixed is here to help. We’re a skilled and friendly group of electronics enthusiasts, with seven locations across Virginia.

With a low price guarantee, we ensure the best possible smartphone repair price for our customers—if you find a better price, we’ll beat it by $5, because we know repairs can be a big expense. We use only the highest quality parts and pride ourselves on top-notch customer service.

Contact us today or stop into one of our stores. Our team can’t wait to help you!

Did you know that the average American checks their phone at least 58 times per day? With that much phone contact, you’re bound to experience the dreaded frozen screen at some point in your life. The same goes for laptops. 

There’s nothing worse than a frozen screen during the middle of something important. It seems our devices only freeze at the most inconvenient moments. 

When it happens, your brain freezes, too. You’re not sure whether to restart your device and pray you don’t lose your work or burn it and buy a new one. 

If you’re experiencing frozen screens, you’re not alone. Find out how to fix them, how to avoid them, and when it’s time to call in the experts. 

Why Do Screens Freeze?

If your laptop or phone freezes regularly, it could point to various issues.

Here are the main reasons why: 

• Power or charging issues
• Too many applications running simultaneously
• Software problems
• Outdated operation system
• Viruses and malware
• Extreme temperatures
• Hardware issues

Some issues are more severe than others. For example, hardware issues are best-taken care of by your local repairer. 

How to Troubleshoot a Frozen Laptop Screen

Laptops are great when they work, frustrating when they don’t. Before tossing your laptop out the window, try these steps. 

1. Restart Your Laptop

Typically, restarting your laptop will solve any basic errors. Doing so gives your laptop’s system a chance to reset and start afresh. 

2. Force Quit Any Programs Causing Your Laptop to Freeze

When too many software programs run simultaneously, your system can get overwhelmed. Websites can lag, freeze, or even crash. 

You can force quit by: 

• CTRL + ALT + DEL (Windows) 
• Option + Command + ESC (Mac) 

You must press these buttons at the same time. 

3. Start Your Laptop in Safe Mode

Safe Mode provides access to utility and diagnostic programs to help the user troubleshoot what prevents the computer from running correctly.

To access Safe Mode (Windows): 

• Restart computer 
• Press F8 until the Boot Options menu is displayed
• Select Safe Mode 

To access Safe Mode (Mac): 

• Restart your Mac, then press and hold shift 
• Release the key when the login screen appears 
• Log in to macOS
• Notice the words “Safe Boot” in the upper-right corner 

You can also update your device drivers, restore your system to a previous state, or scan for viruses. 

How to Troubleshoot a Frozen Phone Screen

It isn’t fun when your phone freezes while you’re trying to stalk your ex-boyfriend’s new girlfriend on Facebook. Before smashing your phone in frustration, try these steps. 

1. Restart Your Phone

If the screen is frozen, restarting your phone will usually solve the problem. Doing so gives your phone’s system a chance to reset and start afresh. 

2. Force Your Phone to Restart

If the screen is still frozen, you can force it to restart. This will help clear the errors causing your phone to freeze without deleting apps or data. 

3. Free Up Storage Space

Try this step if you’ve been receiving alerts that you don’t have enough storage. 

For iPhone users, you can back up onto the cloud. For android users, you can use the “free up space” tool. If you have a phone with an SD card slot, you can also move your files onto that. 

4. Update Your Operating System

If your phone is still frozen, you may need to update your operating system. It can improve user experience and automatically update your apps. 

Installing regular updates will improve the stability of your software, remove outdated features and valid security concerns.

Anything Else? 

A frozen phone also can sometimes mean a low battery. Recharging it may solve the problem. You should also check for problematic apps and remove them. 

If all of the above doesn’t work, you may have to do a factory reset. You should only use it as a last resort as it will wipe all your data and apps. 

How to Avoid Frozen Screens?

If you can’t afford to lose time (and money) dealing with a frozen screen, you can take steps to avoid the issue. Here are some easy ways you can prevent your device from freezing. 

Regularly Install Updates

Yes, they’re sometimes annoying. But, software providers release updates to improve the functions of your device. All of these updates are aimed at making the user experience better. 

Remove Unreliable Apps

A potential cause of freezing screens is unreliable apps. They use up a substantial amount of your phone’s resources and slow the device down.

In some cases, a basic restart will fix the problem, but others require you to delete the app or seek out further repairs. 

Ensure Your Have Enough Storage

Storage space can affect the performance of your device. When your phone or laptop is deficient in storage, it will start to lag and eventually freeze up. 

You can free up your storage by deleting unwanted apps, old files, photos, videos and clearing your cache.

You can use SD or MicroSD cards for MacBook users to boost your total storage. 

Reset at Least Once a Day

Regular phone and laptop maintenance is your best chance to avoid any freezing issues. If you continue to experience problems, at least you know you have tried everything you can to avoid them.

Sometimes it’s just out of your control. 

Say Goodbye to Frozen Screens Today

At least 84% of American households own a smartphone, while 78% own a desktop or laptop. 

With that many devices, you can only imagine how many people experience frozen screens every day. However, with regular electronic maintenance, you can lessen the chance of your device experiencing the dreaded frozen screen. 

But sometimes regular laptop and phone maintenance aren’t enough. If you have tried to fix your device to no avail, it’s time to call in the experts at Fruit Fixed. 

We specialize in electronic repair, including smartphones, laptops, MacBooks, iPhones, and more. If your device needs a new screen? We can do that too. 

Don’t let a frozen screen ruin your day! 

Drop by one of our several locations today. No appointment is necessary. 

In the business world, computers are replaced every 3 to 5 years. If you’ve got a personal computer, then there’s a very good chance yours will last longer. However, as your PC gets older, it’ll run less and less smoothly. It might take a while to boot up, or even worse, it might freeze up! If your computer freezes, it can be scary. Not only will you potentially lose all your files, but you might have to buy a new PC as well!

But before you panic, take a deep breath. Here’s what to do before you run out and replace your computer.

Give It a Few Minutes

If your computer freezes randomly, don’t just rush to shut it down and reboot right away. Instead, wait a few minutes to see if it’ll unfreeze itself.

Sometimes, a process might use up lots of resources, so your computer will freeze while it’s getting this task done. This is especially true if you have an old computer, as it won’t be running optimally.

If your computer does respond after you wait a few minutes, you’ll want to go through your computer and free up some space and close down unused programs. That way, it won’t have to work as hard at processing tasks.

For example, if your computer freezes on startup, you might have too many startup programs. You’ll want to go through the list and keep only those that are essential.

Check if Your Computer’s Deadlocked

A computer deadlock is when 2 programs prevent each other from accessing resources on your device. As a result, both of them stop functioning and make your computer freeze.

To see if your computer’s deadlocked, press your caps lock button a few times. If the LED light on your keyboard doesn’t turn off and on, then this means your computer’s deadlocked.

In the case of a deadlock, you’ll have no choice but to restart your computer. In this case, press the power button to turn it off, then again to reboot.

See if There’s an Unresponsive Program

Have you pressed the caps lock key and the LED light turned off and on? Then the good news is, your computer isn’t deadlocked!

In this case, you’ll want to check if there’s an unresponsive program. This can happen if your computer isn’t optimized or the software wasn’t written well.

Press Ctrl+Alt+Del and this will open up your Windows Task Manager. From here, you’ll see the Processes tab by default.

If there’s an unresponsive program, it’ll appear at the very top and the second column of Status will say “not responding”. Click on that program and then select End Task. Do note that it can take up to 20 seconds for the program to shut down, so give it a little time if your computer’s still frozen.

Once the program’s closed, your computer should return to normal.

Check Your Browser

Sometimes, what’s causing the freeze isn’t a program, but rather, a tab in your browser. This is thanks to an improperly coded website, which can then get stuck in an infinite loop for loading. Or it might be incompatible extensions you’ve downloaded.

To see if this is your issue, go into your browser’s task manager. If you use Chrome or Edge, press Shift+Esc. For Firefox users, you’ll have to go to More Tools and then Task Manager.

In the Task Manager, you’ll be able to see which tabs or extensions are using an excessive amount of resources. It’ll also tell you which things are freezing. Try closing out these pages and extensions and see if your computer stops freezing.

For extensions, you might want to keep them disabled if that helps your computer run smoothly. Either uninstall and find a better extension or keep an eye on new versions to see if they’re more compatible.

Do an Antivirus Scan

It won’t hurt to do an antivirus scan, especially if you haven’t run one in a while. You never know if a piece of malware is causing your computer to freeze up!

You should also use something like Malwarebytes to be extra sure there are no bad files lurking around.

Have an Expert Look at It

There’s only so much you can do at home on your own. If you’ve tried everything above, but your computer keeps freezing, then it’s time to have a professional technician look at it.

Our staff will be able to carefully examine your computer and find out exactly what’s wrong with it. Not only that, but we source only high-quality parts for our clients.

Most importantly, we have fast turnaround times. We understand how important your computer is to your daily life so we’ll get it back in your hands in a flash. Most of our computer repairs take 2 to 4 hours, so you can go run errands while we get you back up and running.

Best of all is, we offer lifetime warranties on all of our labor and parts. You can count on us to fix your computer freezes!

Combat Computer Freezes

Computer freezes can be annoying and scary. Not only do you lose work you’ve done, but there’s also a chance that your PC’s done for, permanently.

However, there are several steps to take before you write off your computer for good. And by having an expert take a look at it, you just might be able to save your device.

In the worst-case scenario, you’ll have to replace your computer. But hopefully, you’ll at least have your data backed up so you don’t have to start over completely from scratch.

If you’ve tried everything above and need a new computer still, then check out our inventory. We’ve also got smartphones if you need one!

If you’re like most people, you use your computer daily. You rely on it to get your work done, pay your bills, and manage emails. Whether you primarily use a computer at work or home, it’s an essential item. 

That’s why it’s so frustrating when you experience debilitating computer issues. One of the most common issues is lines on computer screen displays.

Sometimes, these are horizontal lines on computer screen displays. In other cases, it’s vertical lines. Whatever the case, you need to know how to solve this problem when it arises.

If that describes your situation, don’t worry! In this article, we’ll explore the different types of lines that may appear and how to get rid of them.

Ways to Fix Vertical Lines on Computer Screen Displays

In many cases, you may see thin green lines on computer screen displays. If you see these lines, but you can still operate your computer, there are some solutions. We’ll outline some of these solutions below.

Check Your Screen Resolution Display Settings

First, right-click the Start button on your screen. Then, select the Control Panel option. Once you’ve done so, navigate to the Appearance and Personalization choice. 

Click here, then click Adjust screen resolution. The next step is to go down to Resolution and click the little drop-down arrow. 

The setting marked Recommended is the one most suitable for your desktop or laptop screen. You can then set your brightness and contrast from monitor controls. 

Update Your Graphics Driver

Another option for getting rid of these lines is to update your graphics driver. This practice is essential for ensuring your driver achieves its maximum performance. There are two primary ways to keep these up to date. 

First, you can use third-party software. If you use your workplace computer most, your company may provide this software solution. 

Another way to fix this problem is by updating your drivers manually. Follow these steps to do this.

First, right-click Start again and select the Device Manager. Then, check for the graphics or video card drivers that have a notification.

These notifications take several forms. Some of these include yellow exclamation marks, question marks, down-arrow marks, and error notifications. 

If the driver has a yellow exclamation mark on it, click it twice. From there, open Propertiesand choose Update Driver under the Drivers tab. Finally, Restart your PC. 

Check Whether Green Lines on Computer Screens Appear in the BIOS

If you get to the BIOS settings and still see these green lines, it could be a symptom of hardware failure. If so, perform a hard or forced reset. Next, issue a BIOS update. 

Updating BIOS can be an intimidating step for many people. If you’re not sure how to go about this, don’t worry. You can always take your computer to expert technicians to have them look over it. 

However, it’s also possible that you don’t see any vertical lines in the BIOS. If that happens, the cause likely stems from software issues. In this case, you can update the display drivers to remedy the problem. 

How to Fix Horizontal Lines on Computer Screen Displays

Horizontal lines appearing on a screen often stem from similar issues as vertical lines. So, you may see overlapping approaches to solving these problems. 

Bear in mind that many of these issues happen to affect various iterations of Windows programs. So, we’ll also include some fixes for different Windows generations. 

Updating Your Graphics Driver

Once again, a leading cause of horizontal lines on computer screens stems from driver issues. If you have the wrong graphics driver for your system or an out-of-date model, updating the driver could solve the problem. 

There are several ways to do this. Some software solutions will scan your system and find the best drivers for it. Once again, if this issue affects your work computer, you can talk to your boss or call the IT technicians to fix your problem. 

Adjusting Your Screen Resolution

As with vertical lines, fixing your screen resolution could also resolve the issue. How you do this could change depending on what generation of Windows you use. We’ll cover how to do this on both Windows 10 and Windows 8/7. 

If you’re using Windows 10, you can right-click the empty area of your desktop and find the Display Settings. From there, go to Resolution.

While in this setting, click the drop-down menu and make sure you select the recommended setting. Theoretically, this should resolve your issue. If it doesn’t, it may be time to take your computer to a technician. 

That’s the approach for Windows 10, but what about Windows 8 or 7? Fortunately, fixing this is similar to the later 10 system. 

As with Windows 10, start by right-clicking the empty part of your desktop screen. Next, click Screen Resolution. From there, adjust the screen resolution until you see the horizontal lines vanish. 

Wipe the Screen Gently with Cotton Balls

If the above approaches don’t fix your issue, you may have a hardware problem with your desktop or laptop. So, what then? 

Start by powering off your computer. Once it shuts down, use a few cotton balls to wipe the screen. Sometimes, these lines stem from grime or fluid that managed to infiltrate the glass. 

However, don’t get overzealous. Go slowly and gently so that you don’t cause worse damage. 

Final Step in Fixing Lines on Computer Screen

If none of the above approaches removes the lines on computer screen displays, there’s one final step to take. You’ll have to take your computer to the best technicians you can find. 

If you need your computer repaired, consider our services! We’ve fixed our customer’s technology all across the state of Virginia. If you want the best service in the state, call us today to receive an estimate.

You’ve just bought a new iPhone or iPad, and the worst happened. Maybe you were going on a run or simply walking with friends. You forgot to pay attention to your phone and it slipped out of your pocket, crashing hard against the floor.

Ouch, right? We all know the panic that sets in when you see a little crack – let alone a big one – on your precious phone. If you have a cracked screen, here are some options available to you.

What to Do Immediately

The first thing you should do after dropping your phone is to evaluate the damage. Is there just a small scratch, or do you have a spiderweb-styled crack across the screen? Are there pieces of the screen that are missing?

Check to see if the phone can turn on, or if the display is broken. If your phone can still function, have a quick run-through of your apps and settings to see if anything isn’t working optimally. 

Understanding the damage is key in ensuring that you know what kind of service you need from an iPhone repair shop near me. If the fall wasn’t bad, chances are you may need an iPhone cracked screen repair but not maintenance on the phone’s functions itself.

Options to Repair a Cracked Screen

The degree of severity will determine the best way for you to fix your phone. These are some options to help with an iPhone cracked screen repair process.

Use Packing Tape

If you have a chipped phone screen, or if there are shards sticking out, you will need packing tape. You can cut a small piece and use it to secure the cracked areas. 

It’s important to note that this is a temporary solution. Tape will only hold your phone or iPad together until you can decide to go to a Mac repair store or to buy a new device.

Use A Screen Protector

If you are looking for something sturdier than packing tape, you can apply a screen protector on your phone (or replace your damaged one, if you were using a protector during the fall). This will secure your device’s screen and prevent the possibility of more cracks. In the case of another accident, having a screen protector may lessen the damage.

While placing a screen protector over your broken screen may hold your phone together, the drawback is that your device’s screen will not look as good as new. Especially if you have a spiderweb-like crack – or a big scratch – it may hinder your ability to read things on your device.

Replace the Screen Yourself

If the cracks are not too severe, you may be able to choose to undergo the repair process yourself. You will have to check the cost of getting a replacement screen, and what the warranty is like for your phone. A potential complication is that attempting to fix your phone yourself can void the warranty.

You will have to get a set of kits in order to repair the screen. If it doesn’t seem manageable or the damage is too extensive, it’s recommended that you visit an iPhone repair store near me instead. 

Go to A Mac Repair Store

What is the easiest and quickest solution to your cracked screen? Going to a Mac repair store, of course! If the damage is too bad for you to attempt to fix yourself, it’s a lot better to get professional repair instead of tinkering around anyway.

Going to a repair store will also ensure that other associated problems (such as touchscreen functionality) will be repaired. In other words, your phone can appear good as new!

You will likely be able to easily find ‘iPhone repair shop near me’ to fix your device for you. iPhones are highly popular everywhere, after all. You will want to check your warranty and see if your circumstances can allow a free repair process. 

Trade In Your Phone

What if your device is damaged beyond repair? Maybe your screen display is not responding anymore, and there is no way you can fix the problem without coughing up a lot of money.

Your only solution left is to trade in your phone and buy a new one. 

How to Prevent A Cracked Screen

Having a cracked screen is not a fun situation to be in. There are ways to further prevent any cracks from appearing on your device. 

The first is to have a screen protector. It’s worth the investment to purchase a sturdier or thicker version because the cost of a protector is a lot less than the cost of having to replace your phone screen. 

You will also want to purchase a hard case that is thick enough to prevent any dents on your phone. Phone sleeves can be helpful, too!

Another tip is to be aware of where you are placing your phone. You would want to always store your device in a safe place, and this can mean putting it away from the edge of a table or in a safe distance from any liquids.

Your Options for Fixing a Cracked Screen

Everyone’s experience having a phone with a cracked screen, and it isn’t the best. Not only does it look less sophisticated, but your device may be harder to read or may not function like it used to.

If you have a cracked screen, you can choose to repair it in several ways. You can use packing tape, a screen protector, or buy a kit and replace the screen yourself. Alternatively, you can visit a repair store.

Access our services today for affordable phone repairs.

Although computers only became popular a few decades ago, they have transformed every aspect of our lives. As they continue to become more common throughout the world, more and more computer maintenance and repair services are popping up. In fact, more than half of a million Americans are employed in PC maintenance and repair!

Sometimes you need professionals to help with your PC maintenance, but there are lots of things you can do to keep your computer in top form. Read on to learn everything you need to know about why PC maintenance can help you get the best performance possible out of your computer! 

Detect Computer Problems Before They Get Out of Hand 

As with many aspects of life, the sooner you can discover problems with our computer, the easier it is to handle them. If you let these problems remain as they are, they will get bigger over time and become harder to fix.

This can be especially important if you have a new computer. Everyone enjoys when their brand new computer is operating smoothly. It feels like such a big change from their old, laggy computer.

When a computer is running well, it is unlikely that you will notice tiny changes in performance. If you don’t want your old computer to end up just like your old computer, then you should rely on routine maintenance to fix little things that might start slowing it down.

Prevent Viruses and Other Malware 

At the end of the day, there are so many bad actors in the world that viruses are a near-constant. If you wait until you notice something going wrong to try to correct viruses, you are going to miss many of them. It is better to use routine computer maintenance to catch them.

Some viruses are more serious than others. Some simply slow down how fast your computer boots up or runs, while others create pop-up messages or try to get you to buy things. On the other hand, malware can be used to try to hold your sensitive information hostage and extract ransom money.

Proper maintenance will keep your antivirus software up to date and make sure it’s running often enough to get rid of viruses big and small.

Keep Your Computer Running at the Highest Speed Possible 

It’s not viruses alone that can slow down your computer. The normal, benign accumulation of files across time can start to slow down the performance of your computer. 

This is why most people don’t notice when their computers slow down. It’s not that their computers suddenly slow down in response to a virus. More often, it is a gradual, imperceptible slowdown across time as the computer gets used for more and more things.

Of course, you can’t just get rid of all your files like you can’t get rid of viruses. After all, you got those files for a reason, and you’ll probably need to continue using them. But there are still many things you can do to help speed up your computer.

At the very least, you can eliminate old files that are no longer necessary. Even the files that you need to keep may be able to be used more efficiently.

Avoid Losing Important Data 

Computers work with incredible efficiency, performing millions of operations on a routine basis. But at the end of the day, they are so fallible machines. In some cases, their imperfections can have catastrophic results.

Data loss is not common with modern computers, but it still happens. Many people simply live with this risk. They occasionally lose their data, and they just accept that as part of life.

But this attitude may not be acceptable for someone with highly sensitive information. If your data is essential for the operation of a business or your files are too precious to lose, then you will want to take precautions against data loss.

Proper PC maintenance can help prevent data loss before it occurs.

Get the Most Out of Your Software

Sometimes your computer is capable of running at a high speed, and it is your software that keeps you from enjoying its highest levels of performance. Even on a brand new computer, old software might not run very quickly. Companies regularly update their software, but this won’t benefit you if you don’t download and apply their updates.

An important part of regular PC maintenance is updating old software. This way, you can use the best possible version of these important tools.

Use the Best Computer Hardware

Of course, sometimes it is your PC parts that are causing problems. In this case, you might need PC repair rather than maintenance.

While this can be a hassle, PC repair costs more than pay for themselves when you are able to perform all the functions of life that you rely on your computer for.

Other Ways to Maintain Your PC

Programs like Secunia PSI can make maintenance a lot easier for you. It keeps track of all the programs on your computer that might be susceptible to security risks. This way, you don’t need to be an expert to know which programs need to be updated. 

Don’t Miss Out on the Benefits of PC Maintenance

We hope you were able to learn something about all the benefits of proper PC maintenance. Our computers are essential tools for so many aspects of our lives that improving their functioning can make our whole lives run more smoothly. 

Everyone’s computer is different, so if you have questions about your own computer, it can help to talk to an expert. You can reach out to us in person or remotely here to find out more about how you can improve your computer’s performance! 

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!

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!