Q: One day, my computer, printer and mobile organiser all decided to throw a fit and not talk to each other. The hardware guy tells me it could be a software problem and the software guy says it could be a connection problem.
A: Let's say this happened to you, as it well happened to me. My first instinct was to call an IT guy and I got mine through the classified ads. I learnt that this is not the best option unless he comes recommended.
The first guy I called stood me up three times. The second guy came an hour early, in the middle of my dinner, and would not leave well past 10pm (and I was paying by the hour!)
Worse, he did not have the smarts to inspire confidence. Our real conversation went like this:
Me: 'I did a printer test. The printer passed every function. Why isn't it printing?'
Him: 'Where is the cable to connect the printer to the laptop?'
Me: 'I don't have the cable. It's wireless...why do I need a cable?'
Him: 'Where is the wireless?'
Me: 'See this blue light here that says 'wireless'?'
In the end, I discovered - via an error message on the printer screen - that one of the print cartridges was low on ink.
No rocket science, but my classified ads man could not tell me that.
So, what to do?
Your first step is to make a judgment on whether your gadget is the problem.
Say, you cannot start the PC (after checking that it is properly plugged and powered) or if the screen appears blank or blue, take it to your hardware service centre. Or, to Challenger's PC doctor. The trustworthy folks there will service any brand.
Alternatively, if the gadget seems to be functioning properly but you have problems connecting or getting your program to respond, try the Help button in the program.
Say, the problem is the program on your mobile organiser. Go to the program's Help website, or send an e-mail message describing your problem.
Response time is usually pretty good. However, if you cannot even access your e-mail account, call the SingTel or StarHub hotline. Getting their help desk staff is as good as getting a virtual IT guy to walk you through the problem.
Try not to be impatient and start clicking on several keys or applications simultaneously. This will confuse the PC and everything will freeze up in shock.
The most befuddling problem, sometimes, has the easiest answer. For instance, once I thought my PC was dead. A quick check on the dusty cables at the back showed that the socket had come loose. One bang into place, and I was set.
This story was first published in The Straits Times Digital Life.
