Be careful when working inside your computer!

Many people trying to save a buck have opted to repair their own computers. It works out usually, but not always. Here's a couple things you should know.

• What may seem to you as a small, static electricity charge is enough to fry your computer. You know the shock you sometimes give another person? Well if it were your computer, it could be headed towards the computer graveyard. I know you are not going to run out and buy a wristband or a mat, but at least touch the outside of the case to discharge any static electricity you have built up. Or take your chances. I'd recommend the former.
• Not all screws inside a computer are the same. They may look the same, but they are not. A small difference in diameter can make or break getting a screw back in. If you force the screw in, you may strip it. Then you have to go without or buy screws the right size. Use post it notes to label the screws you take out.
• Loose electrical wires can interfere with the fan operation. If you don't properly tie wires, you can cause the system to overheat and cause yourself more headaches than you solved.
• Not all cases are the same. You have to be careful when replacing a motherboard to buy one that will fit in your case.
• Not all memory is the same. Check with your manufacturer to get memory that is supported by your motherboard. If you don't confirm the amount that your motherboard can support, you'll be throwing money away purchasing extra memory that won't be used.
• If your computer is older than six years, your time and money would be better spent on a new tower.
• You should never attempt to repair a monitor unless you are a qualified electrician.

If you do your own repairs there is no warranty for your work, but you only need a warranty when things go wrong. And they never go wrong, right? ;) Please don't ask your computer tech friends to help you fix your computer. If you do, at least pay them. It's their business.

Lastly, if you do repair something inside your computer yourself, there should not be any parts left over!

Good luck and keep Betsy, Old Faithful or whatever you call your computer in good condition and she will take care of you for years.