urgent: need computer repair in dallas/plano/richardson (home, theater)

[stargirl007]

i bought my computer from best buy, but they want to keep my computer for over a week to attempt to fix it.

i am a college student, it is finals time, i don't mind paying a repair person if they can figure out my problem & hopefully fix it on spot.

does anyone know of any reliable computer repair people or companies that do this sort of thing in dallas (preferably SMU area), richardson, or even east plano?

[getmeoutofhere]

What's wrong with it?

[stargirl007]

something is wrong with the actual graphics card inside of the computer. it occasionally completely black screens

[getmeoutofhere]

After the screen blacks out, does it come back on in a minute or two?

If it does, it's a heat problem. The graphics card is getting too hot. Try putting your computer somewhere with better airflow.

Or you can replace it. It would be much cheaper than one of those computer repair places, and it's very simple to do. A decent one with a fan will run you $50 or so at Fry's, and it takes about 5 minutes to replace. It's very simple these days, just pull the old one out and put the new one in, and let the computer install it.

[elan]

I know people who have used Geek Squad, expensive but they get the job done.

Geek Squad – Virus and Spyware Removal, Computer Repair, Home Theater Installation, Appliance Repairs & more

[Handsome Stranger]

I agree with getmeoutofhere, get a can of compressed air and blow out all the dust from the air vents and fans. If you can open the side cover, blow out the inside, carefully.
Bustbuy and the Geek Squad are basically the same thing and to be avoided in my opinion. Look for a mom & pop computer repair store near you if you need more help.

[elan]

Just a thought, you could just go over to the SMU computer lab and start asking for help. Also found these:
Local Services Dallas

[TheViking85]

Just to clarify, is it a desktop or a laptop, because a lot of the (though good) advice here is directed at desktops, laptops aren't as easy to deal with. Though in no way impossible, but something I'd do myself if you're not tech savvy.

[getmeoutofhere]

Originally Posted by TheViking85

Just to clarify, is it a desktop or a laptop, because a lot of the (though good) advice here is directed at desktops, laptops aren't as easy to deal with. Though in no way impossible, but something I'd do myself if you're not tech savvy.

Yes, this. I assumed it was a desktop. If it is, it's ridiculously easy to work on and you shouldn't pay anyone to fix it.

if it's a laptop, pay someone else to fix it.

[LV702]

One thing to add. Opening up your desktop could void your warranty (if there is one). How old is your system?