Before calling in the professionals there are a few things you can do yourself. These tips may take care of the problem. At the very least, they will help us to get you back underway even quicker.

Don't Panic - sounds simple, but it is important. Unless there is smoking equipment involved, we can likely fix the situation.

Be Ready to Demonstrate (or Describe) The Problem - This could be as simple as stating, "When I move the mouse on the desk, the pointer on the screen doen't move." Being able to demonstrate the problem also means that what is happening wasn't a mispressed key or an intermittent occurence.

Write Down Any Error Messages - Often a problem will be accompanied by an error message on the screen. Having the error message on paper means you can look it up in a reference, or read it word-for-word to the technician.

Walk Away for Five Minutes - When mistakes start happening, maybe it's the nut on the keyboard (if you'll pardon our frankness). Fatigue may be causing you to miss a step or mistype. If the problem is frustrating you, stepping away for a short break will help you to calm down and try your task again. It may be all you need to solve the problem.

Save Early, Save Often - The most important information on your computer is the stuff you've typed in. Be sure that you've saved whatever typing or data entry you've done before you have anyone (including us) make changes to your computer.

After You've Saved Your Work, Restart - Restarting is often the simplest and most effective way to clear up a problem. Honest.

Press "F1" For Help - Quite often, there is on-screen instructions for whatever it is that you are trying to do. If the on-screen help isn't specific enough, you may be able to search for a one- or two-word description (like "print" or "save picture") of what you are trying to do.

Call a Geek - We might know the answer off the top of our heads. If it's something we can solve over the phone in less than five minutes, its free. Give us a try.
(403) 210-2107.