Tech to your home
28 Jan 2019
Mobile computer repair services will come to you to help with any problems, but are they right for you?
Technology is moving so fast that it can be hard for even the tech-savvy to keep up. It’s a fact that many older Australians feel challenged, and even a little bit scared, by the influx of tech into their homes – especially when something goes wrong. When your computer crashes, or refuses to work, it can be a worry. For seniors who know their way around the internet, they may rely on home computers to pay bills or contact relatives; for those who are just learning their way around the web, a crash or computer failure can be a huge setback to getting better connected.
But help is not far away. Mobile computer repair companies – outfits like Geekmobile, Mobile Geeks and Geeks2U – will send a computer repairperson to your home to help you out. This can be a great service for those without a younger relative to call, but there are a few things you need to bear in mind:
Make sure you need them
These services are great, but they are not just for “computer support”; i.e. when you just don’t know how to use a particular computer or program. This is for when your computer needs some serious attention, such as when it will not start up properly.
There’s an old joke amongst IT people – which was turned into a catchphrase on popular sitcom The IT Crowd – “Have you turned your computer off and back on again.” You need to make sure that your computer is beyond this stage before you call a mobile service, or you’ll be paying a lot for someone to press the Off and On buttons.
Be clear on costs
When you call the service, they will have a minimum call-out fee; this fee varies, but should only be around $100 to come to your home and at least give you an idea of what’s wrong. Make sure you ask how much it will cost before agreeing to a visit; once they’re at your place, the minimum will apply no matter how easy the fix.
If all goes well, you might get your machine fixed for the minimum price, but if something else is wrong further costs may be incurred. Again, make sure you understand what these costs are.
Taking the computer away
If you have a serious issue, it may not be able to be fixed at home. This is when the technician might ask to take your computer with them. It’s up to you if you want them to do this, so enquire about the costs involved and then make a decision. Don’t feel pressured, either; you can choose to think about it. You may have to pay another call-out fee later, but you also might benefit from asking family or friends about the problem now that it has been outlined to you.
Don’t be bamboozled
The repairer will use a lot of jargon you don’t understand, but don’t be afraid to ask them what it means. Make sure they slow down and explain what the problems means for you, and in particular what needs fixing and how long it might take.
Consider phone support
Before you decide to call for a mobile repairer, try telephone helplines that relate to your computer, be it an Apple, IBM or any other brand. These can be a bit confusing, but if you have some base-level tech skills they can help you avoid a call-out.
For retirees, having a tech-savvy person who can come to their home can be a welcome resource. And you’ll find many of these mobile operators will go above and beyond to help you get things fixed, acting as ongoing support to help you stay connected. But, like any commercial service, keep an eye on the upsell and make sure you understand what’s involved in the transaction.
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