Every once in awhile we get called to someone’s home about a problem that has been perplexing them. We get there and, for us, these are easy fixes, and we have the problem resolved within 15 minutes. Of course, I try to screen those calls when they come in and talk the caller through a potential solution, but it doesn’t always work out. Plus, sometimes people just want to have someone else take care of it for them!
Keep these easy fixes in mind when you run into computer troubles:
- The screen on my laptop has cracked and I can’t see anything:
- For the short term, you can plug a monitor into your laptop so that you can see what is on the screen.
- For the long term, you’ll need to decide if you want to replace the screen, or just get a new laptop.
- My wireless mouse (or keyboard) isn’t working:
- Check the back to make sure you didn’t accidentally turn it off
- If that doesn’t work, make sure the little dongle you have plugged into one of your USB outlets is plugged in all the way.
- If that doesn’t work, change the batteries.
- If that doesn’t work, plug in a wired keyboard or mouse, or get a new one.
- And if that doesn’t work, there is probably an issue with your machine and it’s time to call in the pros
- The keyboard on my laptop isn’t working, or one of the keys doesn’t work.
- For the short term, you can plug an external keyboard in, or use a wireless keyboard
- For the long term, you’ll need to decide if you want to replace the keyboard or just get a new laptop
- All of a sudden, I can’t print from my phone or tablet:
- Make sure your phone or tablet is connected to the WiFi
- If that doesn’t solve it, turn everything off and back on again, including the router
- If that doesn’t work, it’s time to call in the pros
- My laptop won’t charge
- Does the charging cable sit firmly in the plug/outlet on your laptop? If it doesn’t, you might need to have the plug/outlet replaced on your laptop. You might also consider getting a new machine.
- If you always have the laptop plugged into the same outlet, check that the outlet still works. Plug a lamp in and see if it turns on. If it doesn’t, call your electrician.
Are these Easy Fixes helpful for you? Please forward to a friend!
Chris Eddy of Geek For Hire, Inc. has been providing computer service to families and small businesses with Mac’s and PC’s for the past fifteen years. His company is highly rated by both the BBB (Better Business Bureau) and by Angie’s List. You can find more on our website, or give us a call 303-618-0154. Geek For Hire, Inc. provides onsite service (Tier 3) to the Denver / Boulder / Front Range area as well as remote service throughout North America.
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Thanks for going over some pretty easy fixes for a computer. I appreciate that you mentioned that it’s possible to plug a monitor to a laptop if you can’t see what’s on the screen. If I may add, this could also help if you want more desktop space, like if you need to use two monitors for your work.
Yes – that’s another great idea!