If you have a Gateway 610 Media Center all-in-one computer, the power supply has
a high risk of dying in the machine. The rev 0 version of the power supply is
the part that can be defective. If you need a replacement, I can get a rev 1 power
supply which corrects the problems of rev 0. However, rev 1 power supplies for the
Gateway 610 are getting hard to find. The price for this power supply is around $100 -
yes 1-2.5 times the cost of an average desktop power supply. Shop labor is $100-$120
to install the new power supply. There is a lot of disassembly that has to be done in
the back of the Gateway 610 to swap in the new part. The total cost difference with
installing a new power supply between a Gateway 610 vs a normal desktop computer
is 2 times the amount ($220 vs. around $100). If the power keeps shutting off seconds
after you turn it on or its getting no power at all, it's likely it's the power supply.
Recently, a customer had a Western Digital hard drive fail in her Gateway 610xl machine.
That requires even more money/labor to fix! Labor is high on these computers (or any all-in-one)
system since they require a lot more disassembly.
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Here are some more screenshot pics of the Trojan Downloader Zlob virus. Since the
beginning of 2008, I'm constantly seeing it more often. It's the #1 infection customers have. On average, I'm charging $45-60 for drop-off/remote service if that's the only problem.
On the desktop, you'll notice a few security icons that weren't there before.
It's not too bad to get rid of the virus, but it does get into the registry and there are 10-15
files on the computer that need to be deleted. Internet Explorer 6/7 seems to have a flaw
that it exploits cause I'm amazed I see it so often. If any of these pics look familiar on your
pc, then you have the Trojan Downloader Zlob too. All the popups are trying to trick you!
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The biggest problem I see that is most common is the use of "fake" security programs
which are actually the infections behind the scenes. Typically, it's the Trojan Downloader
Zlob virus. Internet Explorer gets hijacked
especially the start page through the use of browser helper objects. It doesn't take
much for it to get out of control in a hurry - just a few bad files that get on your computer.
These fake security applications will trick the user to download an infected virus/spyware/popup
program that looks real but looks can be deceiving. What it's doing is adding more viruses + spyware
to your computer. When the user senses something is fishy, it's too late. Often you get constant
popups from an icon in the bottom right taskbar tray stating your computer is infected please
"click here" to get it resolved. NEVER click on those popups!!
Take a look at the screenshots- you can even click on them for better clarity. The warning box (see pic above) is just
making up a bunch of crap it's not true. Also shown (see pic below) is the IE bad start page. Note that
the Security Toolbar towards the top it's not legit. And the software listed on this page is
all junk. Norton 360 was intalled on this computer I don't think it knew a hijack had
taken place. This is not to take a stab at Norton. Real security software such as Norton is not
a 100% safety net. Viruses + spyware are written to target holes in Windows. They mean
business and WILL get on if you accidently download/install it, and will make it impossible for
a user to remove it. Plus, any active running infection
will be diffcult for the security program to delete since it has to be ended first.
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Laptops need a great deal of care especially when moving
between locations. If you can, always use two hands to hold when carrying it. Or use a laptop bag
for storage. Screens are LCD's the same as big screen tv's. The screens look strong but they
can crack easily (see picture below). The cost for a screen is at least $200 for the part. If your
drop your laptop, hopefully it won't land on the screen. There is a good chance it could crack
otherwise. Or damage to the AC/powerjack is another possibility.
You can purchase laptop keyboard covers from Protect Covers.com
to help out due to liquid spillage. Acid in soda/drinks can instantly fry the keyboard
and/or the motherboard. Covers only cost $15 and will help safeguard your investment
from accidents. Highly recommended!
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