The insides of a failed hard disk.

I frequently get calls from people who are having computer problems and are wondering if it is worth fixing their old computer. Usually, they are thinking that they could buy a new computer for $300 or $400, and they want to know if they should fix the old computer, or just buy a new one.

We can fix many computer problems for $100 to $150, which is considerably less than the cost of a new computer. We offer free diagnostic services, and we will tell you what it will cost to fix your computer upfront. If the problem is minor, it could be much less expensive to fix an old computer, rather than buy a new one.

Even if the cost of repairs is considerably higher, it still may be worth fixing an older computer. If the computer is only a few years old, and it was fairly “high-end” when it was new, it may actually be a better computer than what you will get in a new $300 or $400 computer. Although we tend to think that computers become obsolete very quickly, the reality is that many of the cheaper computers you find on the market are built with older technology and lower quality components, which are not as good as the components in a high-end computer which is a few years old.

Beyond the computer hardware, it is also important to consider the software on your computer. Software like Microsoft Office, or specialized business software, can be quite expensive. If you do not have the CDs and license keys to re-install the software on a new computer, you may have to repurchase the software.

Another situation is where you have some older version of software that will only run on Windows XP, for example. If you buy a new computer, your old software may not run well on a newer version of Windows. This could mean having to purchase a new version of the software, if one is available. If no newer version of the software is available, you may not be able to use it at all.

Another consideration is the time and effort it takes to get all your software installed and configured the way you like it on a new computer. Fixing your old computer saves you from having to do all that work to get a new computer set up and configured the way you like it, and saves you from having to spend time learning to use a new system.

Do you have any computer related questions? Are there any topics you’d like to read about? Feel free to call me at 847-989-8768 or email me at Rick@Hogans-Systems.com with your questions or suggestions for topics for future columns.