While we never really intend to dream of worst-case scenarios for our computers, a system crash is not something you can rule out of your probability list. Much as we try to install antivirus, anti-spyware and other measures that are aimed at preserving our computer and keeping it from needing a computer doctor, there will still be times that your computer will experience mood swings or even a complete breakdown.
What should one do when such situations arise? Should one bury his PC, shut up and bear it? Of course not! Given the information technology available in the World Wide Web and including time warranties from your computer (assuming that you have kept that tiny receipt in your personal files!), recovering from a computer failure is very much attainable. All you need is a result-oriented mindset and an openness or flexibility to change.
The very first thing to do when your computer suddenly stops working is to calm down. True, you might get much done with your adrenaline rushing at your aid, but it will not be most likely to lead you to the proper solution if you are overwhelmed with your emotions. Find a way to get over the anger and frustration, and then proceed to find a doable solution.
As for the question as to where you should first go, of course it is most ideal if you go get that warranty card for your computer (every brand ought to have one!) and see if you are still covered for that time period. Call their Customer Service hotline or visit the nearest repair branch to have it checked as soon as you possibly can.
If all warranties are lost and there is no way on earth that you are going to get the desired repair from the company which made your computer, that is only time you must employ the help of a third party. Rent a computer, surf the Internet and check for recommendations as to what third-party computer repair companies are available at your vicinity and budget capability. Remember that it may be more expensive and it will take a higher risk to entrust your computer to third party companies so you better evaluate them carefully before taking the plunge.
For your part, it is best to record all the useful information you can recall prior to the computer’s failure so that you can objectively report it and help the people who are bound to diagnose the problem. The more information you give to them, the better and more accurate will the diagnosis be. Be sure to include the time it crashed and what programs were running at the time, all new installations or downloads, as well as how long it has been turned on and working before it stopped working.
Certainly, there may be instances where the repair costs can be too high and it will be more practical to buy yourself a new computer than have the old one repaired. About the lost files, there are also some data recovery companies and for an extra cost, they can help salvage whatever is left of the hard disk if ever your computer system went so amok as to have damaged all your computer memory.
Ultimately, this is the rule of thumb as you wave that computer S.O.S. flag: make sure that in every decision you make, you must be in the right state of mind and you know who you’re transacting with.
