All About Laptop Repair

 
 
 
Over the years, we’ve noticed that there are a lot of misconceptions about laptop computers. Specifically, there are misconceptions about what goes into repairing one. This article will help people understand the differences between desktop and laptop computers.

When I switched from a desktop computer to a laptop, the idea that everything that previously took up my entire desk could now fit in such a small, portable device was revolutionary. But when my first keyboard failed, I realized it wasn’t all wine and roses. The smaller footprint means that parts and pieces often aren’t as easily interchangeable. I could no longer toss the old keyboard and plug in a new $30 generic version; this one would have to come from the manufacturer and would require a skilled technician to replace it.

But not every failure of a portable electronic device warrants replacement. Many laptops are as easy to fix as a desktop. We’ve categorized them into three categories, Easier, The Same or Harder fixes.
 

Virus Removal: The Same.
Cleaning a virus or malware infection off a laptop is no different than it is on a desktop. Software issues shouldn’t require that you spend any more than on a standard PC, or that you find a specialist.
 

Updating The Hard Drive: The Same.
While laptop hard drives and RAM differ from those found in desktop PCs, they conform to certain standard types and sizes, so you don’t have to get them through the manufacturer. Any computer technician or tech-savvy do-it-yourselfer can replace these.

Replacing A Power Supply: Easier.
A laptop’s power supply is actually external (it’s the “brick” about halfway down the power cable), so replacing a dead power supply can be as easy as a Google search with the machine’s make and model number. However, if the connector where your cord plugs into your system has failed, it probably will require a specialist and soldering.

Wireless Network Cards: The Same.
While the card that enables newer laptops to connect to a wireless network is often integrated into the motherboard, you can use an external adapter if your WiFi card fails. A wireless “dongle” plugs into a USB slot, and is about the size of a money clip.

On the other hand, certain laptop elements are much more challenging to repair or replace than on a desktop PC.

Screen Replacement: Harder.
It’s very common for the screen to fail or become damaged, and its replacement often must come from the manufacturer. It can be costly, and a laptop specialist should install it.

A Broken Keyboard: Harder.
The keyboard also is specific to a manufacturer. Replacing a desktop computer’s motherboard can be expensive, but with a laptop it’s typically cost prohibitive. If you’ve got a really expensive, high-end laptop (like a gaming machine or fully upgraded top-of-the-line version) it MAY be worth the money to replace the motherboard, but it will involve backing up all your data, removing all the components and completely rebuilding your system. This proposition — likely expensive and time consuming — should only be undertaken by a laptop specialist.

Hardware Repair: The Same.
Before you approve a repair, be sure to ask whether the parts will be new or refurbished, and what the warranty will be on the replaced part. It’s always best to have new parts, but sometimes older laptops no longer have new components available and replacements must be salvaged. If your laptop will be shipped to a different facility, make sure you’ve backed up the data (if possible) before it leaves your hands. Many retailer-affiliated repair providers perform a system reformat and reinstall, effectively wiping your data, even if the repair doesn’t expressly require it. Some will even send you an entirely different machine to replace the one you sent in.

If you’re still debating whether to get your portable device back up and running, leave a note in the comments below. We have a few more laptop tips up our Nerdy sleeves.

Photo Credit: utnapistim

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