Common Mistakes When Building A Computer
Building your own desktop computer has had a surge in popularity recently. It’s a great project and fairly doable IF you follow certain protocols AND do thorough research BEFORE you make the attempt. We get “self builds” in for repair regularly because they didn’t work after assembly. It can be something simple like plugging in a cable wrong, installing unsupported RAM (specifically AMD systems), or it could be a worst-case scenario of shorting out the motherboard and processor. In this article we will spotlight some common mistakes made and how to avoid them!
Getting incompatible hardware – This is one of the most common mistakes to make when building a computer. From the physical size of the components to how much power will be needed, to the type and number of drive bays you want. Finding out your CPU won’t work with your motherboard in the middle of a build can be a serious headache. A good way to avoid that hassle is to go over your list with a trusted professional like Geek Easy before making your purchases. We are experts in build compatibility! Even if you use an online tool that is supposed to determine hardware compatibility, it’s always best to check with the motherboard manufacturer for their qualified vendor list (QVL) of supported processors and RAM.
Buying a cheap, underpowered PSU (power supply) – This should really be addressed during the compatibility phase, making sure your PSU has enough power for your desired setup. Most techs will tell you not to cheap out on the power supply which is typically sound advice. However, it should be noted that there are decent, affordable power supplies available and most systems don’t need a 1200w power supply to run well. But if you buy something smaller than 500w that weighs as much as a ball of tinfoil, you could easily run into issues later on due to cheap, unreliable components inside the power supply. Your power supply provides electricity for the whole system, so trying to power a $600 graphics card with a $25 power supply isn’t the best idea. What’s right for you depends on your budget and the components you are putting into your build.
Slotting your RAM incorrectly – Not seating your RAM properly can end up with your build not booting. RAM has a specific way it has to be installed in the DIMM slots. Check out the pins on your stick of RAM. Notice that it’s not split 50/50? If the motherboard slots are compatible, they will have a matching “split”. If your RAM isn’t lined up correctly you can easily cause damage to the stick itself and/or the DIMM slot. When installing RAM, use even pressure on both ends until you hear the stick *click* into the slot. If you didn’t hear any clicks while installing your RAM, chances are it’s not seated fully – just give it another push and you should be good to go.
Installing the CPU incorrectly – This is the most important one and more common than you’d think. Some beginners aren’t aware that processors must be installed in a specific orientation. All Intel processors will have some kind of marking on one of the corners. On AMD chips it’s a gold arrow usually found on the bottom-left corner. Line that up with the marking on your motherboard’s CPU socket, often on the metal part that secures your CPU down, but sometimes this indicator is found on the board itself. Great care should be taken when installing a CPU since bent\broken pins are not covered by manufacturer warranties and can make your system inoperable. Take it slow when installing your processor and it can save you time and money spent replacing the motherboard or CPU.
Plugging your monitor into the wrong display output – You get the computer all assembled and finally turn it on. Everything sounds normal and appears to be powered on, except there’s no video. What’s wrong? Another super common mistake is plugging your monitor into the motherboard’s integrated video port instead of the port on your graphics card. The video ports on motherboards only work with processors that come with integrated graphics and typically only work if you don’t have a GPU installed. Simply plug your monitor into a port on the graphics card and reboot. If that doesn’t fix it, make sure you have connected all needed power cables from the power supply. If your card has 2 PCI-E power slots on it, the card requires those to run. You may need to purchase adapters or a larger power supply if there aren’t enough power cables to feed your GPU.
Hopefully these tips will help you if you venture into building your own computer! We are always here to answer questions and to help make your technology easier! If building your own computer isn’t something you want to tackle, ask us about our custom build services!
Adonis Pointer is a photographer, a collector of vintage razors, and a certified technology greek! Adonis has been involved in computer technology since well, a LONG time! He has been involved in nearly every aspect of the industry from sales to repair to training to consulting. As the Social Media Manager he writes the majority of the posts on the Geek Easy Computers blog. |
Disinfecting Your Computer!
In light of the heightened awareness of cleanliness the COVID-19 pandemic has brought on, we thought it would be prudent to indicate the safe and correct ways to disinfect your devices, especially if multiple people are using them! Viruses, bacteria and germs often lurk in a variety of office equipment, including keyboards, mice, monitors and phones, and are easily transferred by hand contact. This contamination can pose health risks for you and your employees, as well as cost your company time and money in lost productivity. Sanitize your office equipment to prevent the spread of bacteria and disease. Make sure to wash your hands prior to cleaning your equipment.
Computer
Power off the computer and monitor. If using a laptop with a removable battery, go ahead and take the battery out as well. If you are using a wireless keyboard and mouse, power off or remove the batteries for cleaning.
Remove dirt, dust and crumbs from the keyboard by using a can of compressed air. Hold the can approximately 6 inches from the keyboard and spray along the perimeter of each key. Or turn the keyboard upside down and tap on the bottom to dislodge any debris.
Sanitize the keyboard by using a disinfectant wipe or a soft, linen-free cloth dipped in isopropyl alcohol. Rub the cloth or wipe on the top and sides of each key and then clean the surface and bottom of the keyboard thoroughly. Use a new disinfectant wipe or cloth to clean the mouse.
Dampen a microfiber cloth with plain water. Gently wipe the computer monitor to remove dirt and fingerprints. Avoid placing pressure on the screen. Pushing on the screen can damage the pixels of a flat-screen monitor. Sanitize the monitor by using a disinfectant wipe specifically designed for LCD and laptop screens.
Cellphone/Smartphone/Tablet
Wipe the entire surface of the phone by using a bleach-free disinfectant wipe or a soft cloth dabbed in isopropyl alcohol. Use a separate cloth or disinfectant wipe to clean the entire surface of the headset, including the speaker and microphone.
And now, some DON’TS
- Don’t use disinfectant wipes containing bleach or disinfectant sprays in general.
- Don’t use an extremely damp disinfectant wipe to clean the area. If you encounter a very damp wipe it may need to be squeezed to remove some of the excess liquid before use.
- Don’t use rough towels or cloths to dry the area.
- Don’t use excess force when disinfecting the area around the keyboard; this could damage the keys.
This process will add some time to your always compressed schedule, but in the interest of your health and well being, we are recommending it be done frequently for shared workstations or when a new user takes control of the device. If you have any questions or concerns about cleaning your devices, feel free to give us a call! We want to make your technology easier!
What Should I Upgrade?
One of the aspects of owning a computer is upgrading. Whether it’s a desktop or a laptop, if you plan on using it longer than a couple of years, upgrading it is in your future. Technology and software advances make it almost a certainty. The question we typically hear from our clients is “What do I upgrade?” In this post we hope to make that decision a bit clearer and easier.
Refurbished Computers
What is a refurbished computer?
A refurbished computer is one that was previously in use, usually by a business or corporation, that has been reconditioned to be like “new”. There is a false perception that refurbished computers are just used and out-of-date computers. While it is true that refurbished units tend not to be the latest technology, they are typically no more than one or two generations older and very capable of running today’s applications!
What is a ‘factory refurbished’ computer?
This is a little different than just a refurbished computer. Companies like Apple, Dell, HP, etc. may sell factory refurbished computers that they have returned to a “like new” condition. These systems typically have shorter warranties directly from the manufacturer (60 days vs. 1 year on new systems). These systems could be returns or systems that were replaced under warranty and then reconditioned by the manufacturer. Once concern we hear a lot about refurbished systems is that they might be the “broken” computers that were sent back to be fixed. While that concern could apply to factory refurbished systems, those aren’t the refurbished computers we sell or support.
What does “refurbishing” really mean?
First of all, refurbished is NOT the same as USED. When you purchase a used computer, it is typically sold AS IS, with no warranties or guarantees. You are basically rolling the dice. The phrase “buyer beware!” applies to this situation. It is unfortunately easy to get stuck with a bad machine as you have no way of knowing the true status of the internal components. Potential failures of the motherboard, hard drive, or even the screen are very real issues when dealing with used computers.
Refurbishing is a process by where previously utilized computers have all of the data wiped from them, and the operating system and associated software re-installed to factory settings. All of the components, internal and external, are thoroughly tested and verified to like-new performance parameters. At Geek Easy Computers, we purchase all of our refurbished units from a certified and authorized refurbisher. These computers were never owned by an individual, but are typically off-lease machines that were in use by a corporate entity. Once we receive these computers, we then put them through our own verification process and stress testing to further ensure that our machines are in A-1 condition before we offer them for sale.
Why should I buy one?
There are several advantages to purchasing a refurbished computer. The most obvious one is the cost savings! You can buy a slighter older model, and upgrade it. For example, a refurbished laptop may have 4-8GB of memory, be a year or two old and cost $250-$350. A new computer may have 8GB of memory and cost $500-$700. Most newer computers can be upgraded to at least 8GB of RAM cheaply saving you money overall. As mentioned earlier, another major advantage of buying refurbished is that the computer has been completely tested and verified. New computers are randomly spot tested on the assembly line, meaning that only a small percentage of them are actually (minimally) tested. A huge advantage to buying refurbished over a used computer is that refurbished computers come with a warranty! Geek Easy Computers includes a 30 day warranty on parts and labor with each of our refurbished machines. We also include a free complimentary tune-up 3 months after purchase to keep your computer running like new. You get technical support from the Kalamazoo area’s only full service computer repair shop located downtown! You also get the assurance that you will always have a friendly local face to talk to, located right in your community!
So if you’re looking to save some money, but don’t want to gamble on pawn shops or Craigslist, come down to Geek Easy Computers and check out our rotating stock of refurbished laptops and desktops. We want to make your technology easier!
Adonis Pointer is a photographer, a collector of vintage raptors, and a certified technology geek! Adonis has been involved in computer technology since well, a LONG time! He has been involved in nearly every aspect of the industry from sales to repair to training to consulting. As the Social Media Manager he writes the majority of the posts on the Geek Easy Computers blog. |
Travel Tips For Your Devices
Our wireless devices have become such a part of our everyday lives that it’s almost unthinkable to not take them with us on our trips. With all the hustle and bustle of traveling, it’s easy to forget that our devices need to prepare for the trip just like you do.
These are some tips to help ensure that your devices come home safely with you, and your trip is not ruined by a theft or failure.
Laptops
You don’t want to be that person forgetting his computer at a coffee shop or a victim of theft. Use these tips to keep your laptop safe while on the road.
Don’t Be A Target
Don’t advertise what you are carrying. Many experts suggest removing any computer logos from the bag as it only shouts out its expensive contents. A bag that’s not identifiable as a computer bag but still is protective of your laptop is even better. Backpack style bags are good for this.
Tag It
Make sure your bag has tags with your name and phone number (and possibly email address), but do not include your home or office addresses or the name of your employer. You want just enough information so that you can be contacted if you are separated from your bag. This is a great tip for any baggage.
Keep Your Eye On It
Don’t lose sight of your laptop. At the airport place your laptop between your other items through the airport X-ray machine (carry-on bag, laptop, then shoes, pockets, etc.) Go through the metal detector at the same time as your computer passes the scanning machine. Don’t leave your phone or tablet unattended at public charging stations.
Don’t Leave It
Avoid leaving your devices in your hotel room as the room may not be completely secure. If you do, put the “do not disturb” sign on the door to limit access by staff.
ID It
Write down the serial and model numbers of your devices. These are usually found on the bottom of most PCs or the backs of other devices. For Macbook/Macbook Pro users check out these tips.
Coffee Shops/Internet Cafes/Etc.
VPN
If you are going to be using public Wi-Fi networks for business or purchases, you should consider investing in a Virtual Private Network (VPN) service from a reputable security company (like an antivirus manufacturer for example). These services protect your information by establishing a single, encrypted connection to the provider that all your web browsing passes through. Just be warned that all of your web use can still be tracked by the VPN provider which is why we recommend sticking to reputable security companies.
Lock It Down
A security cable lock is a fairly cheap security device that works like a bicycle lock. You loop it around a fixed object (such as the coffee shop table), connect it to the laptop and lock it with a combination or a key. There are more advanced models with a motion sensor system and alarm. When someone moves the laptop, it will trigger the alarm, alerting you.
General Tips
These tips apply to any other devices like your smartphone, camera, tablet, etc.
Get Travel Insurance
A good travel insurance policy could be a lifesaver. Get a policy that covers theft and loss of personal items. Make sure the amount of coverage will be enough to replace your devices.
Use Theft Recovery Software
Nothing on the market is 100% fool-proof, but your chances of getting a stolen laptop or smartphone back are a lot higher if you have this type of software installed on your device. Typically, this will allow you to locate the device so you can alert the local authorities to its approximate location. Some theft recovery software works even if the thief has erased all data and installed a new operating system.
Backup Your Data
The information stored on a laptop or smartphone can be more valuable to you than the device itself. Protect that data by backing it up on an external hard drive or online cloud storage REGULARLY.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Be watchful of people watching you, following you, or acting suspicious. When in doubt, get to a public area or walk into a store. You don’t have to be paranoid, just be aware of what’s going on around you!
Memory
Keep external hard drives, SD cards, thumb drives, etc. separate from the devices. That way if something does happen to the device, you still have your pictures or documents safe.
The Wrap Up
In the end, nothing will ever beat common sense for helping to deter theft or loss of your electronic devices & computers. But a combination of good behaviors and security technology will give you peace of mind and let you enjoy your travels more thoroughly. Geek Easy Computers is always here to answer questions or assist with making your technology easier!
All-In-One Computers: Pros & Cons
These days it seems like everyone wants a laptop. While the laptop is indeed the most popular form of computer, there is still a definite market for desktop computers.One of the more popular types of desktop computer is called the all-In-one desktop or AIO computer. In this post, we will discuss the pros & cons of buying an AIO computer.
What is an AIO Computer?
All-In-one computers, also known as all-in-one desktops, are designed to combine the computer case and system components into the monitor so that the entire PC is contained all in one unit.
Why Would I Want One?
- Because you don’t have to find a spot for a separate computer case, the AIO PC takes up a lot less space. Which is great if you’re looking for a computer for a spot with little space, or if you have a small desk. AIO computers are popular in areas where space is a premium or a bunch of cords/cables would be inconvenient, such as: kitchens, medical offices, restaurants, dispatch, warehouses, etc. Some all-in-one computers can also be wall mounted, for even more convenience.
- All-in-one PCs generally offer significantly larger screens than notebooks. A normal notebook typically has a screen size of 13in-15in; all-in-one PCs have screen diagonals of 20in-27in. The resolution is also higher.
- Fewer cables – only one power cable. Speakers are built-in. Most have wireless keyboard & mouse.
- Easier to transport than a regular desktop and monitor, should that become necessary.
- Many AIOs are touchscreen enabled. Higher end versions add pen support.
- Ease of setup.
Why Wouldn’t I Want One?
- Upgrading an all-in-one PC is more difficult. The parts are more difficult to reach, and frequently you have to remove the screen to access them.
- If one thing breaks, the entire computer has to go in for repair. If the monitor breaks, that is going to be a costly repair, unlike a traditional desktop computer where you could just buy another monitor.
- Stuck with one monitor. If you decide you’d like a larger monitor, your only options are to purchase another AIO with a larger screen, or add an additional screen via HDMI, DVI, etc. if that is an option.
- AIOs can be more expensive when compared to a similarly outfitted traditional desktop computer.
- Many all-in-one desktops are at a disadvantage because they’re built to be thin. That means minimal space for components and cooling. As a result, the AIO market is full of desktops that have low-power versions of desktop processors, or even mobile processors inside.
An AIO can be a good choice for any of the above stated reasons, but knowing the limitations or concessions of purchasing an all-in-one desktop will help you make the best decision for you, your family, or your business needs! If you have further questions, the team at Geek Easy Computers is happy to assist you!
Adonis Pointer is a photographer, a collector of vintage razors, and a certified technology geek! Adonis has been involved in computer technology since well, a LONG time! He has been involved in nearly every aspect of the industry from sales to repair to training to consulting. As the Social Media Manager he writes the majority of the posts on the Geek Easy Computers blog. |
WiFi vs Wired
What’s better, wireless or wired, when it comes to internet connections? Most people would instinctively say “WiFi”. Wireless does have many advantages, and in today’s connected culture it’s fairly ubiquitous. But is it truly better? Let’s find out!
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