Leeds Computer Laptop Repairs News

New 2015 Laptop Reviews

2015-03-12T17:16:00.000+00:00

We have come across a great article covering some of the new laptops to arrive this year. Definitely worth a read to anyone in the market for a new machine simply click the below link.

Laptop Reviews 2015

Leeds Computer Laptop Repairs specialise in the repair of hard drives, data recover and free advise. If you require a reliable, cheap and friendly laptop repair service then call us now FREEPHONE: 0800 907 0025 | MOBILE: 0759 9585 666

Nexus 7 Charging Port Repair

2015-01-08T15:14:00.002+00:00

Collected a Nexus 7 tablet yesterday with a faulty charging port. The customer had told us that it had suddenly stopped charging but was working fine apart from that. Eventually the battery ran out and wouldn't turn back on as it was completely drained.

nexus 7 charging port repair leeds

After testing the charger they provided with a test device we ruled out that it didn't relate to that as their charger worked fine with our test device. We then removed and replaced the Nexus 7 flex dc jack. Again to no avail, after then testing the battery which worked fine we were starting to scratch our heads! We then revisited the charger they had provided and looked at the device we had used it on which although charging had done about 5% in an hour! We then tested a new adapter with their tablet and it came on after 10 minutes. It turned out that although their adapter was working it wasn't fully functional and couldn't charge the battery enough to get the tablet in a state where it turned on. Should you have any similar issues or just want a bit of advice feel free to get in touch.

Leeds Computer Laptop Repairs specialise in the repair of screens, hard drive and free advise. If you require a reliable, cheap and friendly laptop repairs leeds then call us now FREEPHONE: 0800 907 0025 | MOBILE: 0759 9585 666

Toshiba C55 no csm in bios - no csm option - bios update 1.30 Fix

2014-11-22T20:18:00.003+00:00

We've decided to tackle our blog in a different way from here on in. Every time we come across a fault that may help a wider audience that is very specific we are going to do our best to inform people in the same boat as to how to rectify and fix it!

First one out of the gate is the booting options missing in toshiba C55 specifically the CSM option. We came across a laptop with a dead hard drive and customer wanted to downgrade to windows 7. After simply going to bios to enable CSM to our confusing there was no such option... After digging around and trying a few half hearted things we managed to fix it.

Turns out under the advanced tab we were missing the CSM boot option that other C55 users had as standard. The fix to the issue for us at least was to update the bios to version 1.30. The below link will allow you to download the BIOS file for your specific model :

http://www.toshiba.co.uk/innovation/download_drivers_bios.jsp?service=UK

Once updated we went straight into the BIOS and CSM toggle was available under advanced tab.

Leeds Computer Laptop Repairs specialise in the repair of screens, hard drive and free advise. If you require a reliable, cheap and friendly ipad repair service then call us now FREEPHONE: 0800 907 0025 | MOBILE: 0759 9585 666

Hard Drives - Why they Fail

2013-10-11T17:52:00.001+01:00

Bit of a different approach to this blog as we replace dead hard drives nearly on a daily basis we thought it would make sense to explain what causes them to fail and what you can look for as a user to know when something may not be working correctly.

There are man reasons for them to fail ranging from the circuitry to a mechanical failure of the components that store and access your data. These failures vary and as a result so do the resolutions. Data recovery must be handled with care to ensure optimal outcomes as there are many variations in drives and failure type.

Difficulties faced as a user is knowing what’s going on inside our hard drive. Operating systems we use whether it’s Windows or Mac OS X generally won’t tell us anything about our hard drive until it’s too late but certain tell-tale signs can be help identify hard drive issues.

If your machine hangs up a lot or inexplicably freezes for long periods accessing files or programs could point to a hard drive on its way out, other times you may have blue screens, errors on boot, such as a missing registry file, corrupted drivers or missing MBR. Your hard drive may also make more noise than usual or feel it generating more heat.

Here are most common causes of failure:

Most hard drives will fail gradually due to wear and tear. ( older the hard drive more chance of failure)

Many will also fail from overheating. ( if you use the hard drive intensively could cause this issue )

Some will fail suddenly because of a physical shock. ( they are very fragile even the smallest knock can damage them )

On occasions hard drives fail because of manufacturer defects or quality control issues. ( out of your control and lightly to happen inside of warranty if the case )

Windows Vista Hangs on Log Off Screen

2013-06-09T22:19:00.004+01:00

A client called us yesterday who had an issue by where the laptop would get stuck on the logging off windows splash screen. She was having this issue randomly occur and hadn't installed any new updates or software recently.

After digging a bit deeper and cleaning the registry up using CCleaner the issue related to some redundant software she had deleted but not fully un installed properly was at fault. Once the software was completely un installed and removed from the registry when logging off windows didn't hang or pause at the same point as before. We managed to get the laptop back next day and our customer was very happy. This issue usually relates to software conflicts that are preventing the computer from shutting down properly and should be the first thing to look at if you are having a similar issue.

Leeds Computer Laptop Repairs deals with all aspects of computer, pc and laptop repairs so if you have a problem with your device, call us now on FREEPHONE: 0800 907 0025 | MOBILE: 0759 9585 666

Laptop Won't Boot Windows freezes on startup at "Windows Starting Screen"

2013-03-02T22:03:00.001+00:00

A customer dropped off a laptop today as we were recommended by his neighbour which is always good to hear. He's had an issue by where the laptop won't boot past the windows starting screen. He was having this issue after installing some windows updates. Straight away this pointed the finger at that as everything was fully working before this process!

After looking into this problem a bit further and uninstalling the updates that were causing the issue it turned out that an incorrect driver that the update amended was at fault. Once the driver was completely uninstalled the update was applied correctly, we then re installed the driver bringing it up to date. Was ready to drop back same day and very straight forward, though this issue can relate to pretty much anything that can do wrong with a computer so could have been a lot more work and cost.

How to Take Ownership & Full Control Permissions of Files & Folders in Windows 7

2013-02-22T15:28:00.000+00:00

Time to time a customer comes to us wanting a new build pc but to have access to their old files and folders on the new system. A customer that came to us wanted just that, in this scenario we installed their old sata hard drive into the new computer along side the new hard drive. When accessing my computer and entering the old drive to access their information an error occurs. The error says that access is denied and that the user does not have the correct permissions to access these files and folders.

To change these permissions and take ownership of the files and folders is quite straight forward and if you have the above warning message or errors a great guide to changing the permissions that we ourselves use simply click here. Once the permissions have been altered the files can be accessed and you will have full control of the drive.

Laptop Hinge Plastic Snapped

2013-02-13T22:25:00.000+00:00

I thought I'd write up a new blog as I'm having a reoccurring problem pass over my work bench lately. It relates to the laptop bottom case and the screw fittings that holds the hinges to it. Laptop cases tend to be very durable but due to people using them incorrectly or picking them up by the top half of the laptop weakens the internal plastic as seen below.

After various different methods of trying to repair this plastic with glue, new hinges and clips I have come to the conclusion there is only one long lasting solution. To replicate the strength of the manufactured plastic fittings the only option I've found is to use nut and bolts. I have complete this repair about a dozen times so far, I simply use the old screw fitting that's damaged as a pilot hole and re drill it. The drill bit would be exposed in the bottom of the case which is where I'd attach the washer and nut to tighten.

This holds the laptop very securely and short of replacing the entire bottom plastic base is the only cost effective solution I've found. It is very cost effective and works well only a broad range of laptop makes and models.

If you have a similar laptop problem and need a repair company then please get in contact with Leeds Computer Laptop Repairs now for a friendly, quality and reliable service.

HP G61 powers on but no display

2013-02-09T20:16:00.001+00:00

Today a customer called us regarding there HP G61 laptop which when she turned it on lights and fans came on but didn't display anything on the screen. After many attempts she decided it wasn't going to fix itself and arranged us to collect it. The first thing we always try is removing all power (adapter, battery) and hold down the power button in this state for 30 seconds. Then replace the adapter without the battery and the laptop will usually boot as normal. Once its booted restart and re insert the battery and use as normal.

This works is many instances including this one, what actually happens is static charge builds up within the capacitors of the laptop sometimes to such a degree the laptop will not function properly. Holding down the power button with the adapter and battery not it will disperse them allowing the laptop to once again work correctly. She was happy to have it back so quick and at a minimal charge as well as some advice she can use in future should it happen again.

Leeds Computer Laptop Repairs specialise in the repair of all technical device problems such as laptop repairs, laptop screen repairs, computer upgrades and more. If you require a reliable, cheap and friendly laptop repair service then call us now FREEPHONE: 0800 907 0025 | MOBILE: 0759 9585 666

Laptop Virus Removal

2012-11-24T22:59:00.000+00:00

Another virus removal this week a customer called us saying they could not see any of their photos or files. They urgently needed them as they are an event photographer and they needed the proofs to get the photos sent out as soon as possible. We had a look at his machine and noticed that they had a random unnamed executable file which looked suspicious he did not know where it had come from or what it was.

We used our preferred programs and cleaned up the machine and got rid all viruses. We also had to un-hide all files and photos from the machine and check that they still had the photos on the machine that they needed for their work.

If you find an unexpected or suspicious file on your machine or different icons on your desktop you do not recognise please feel free to give Leeds Computer Laptop Repairs a call and we will give your laptop a once over to check that everything is running as it should be and no viruses are active.

We also provide a data back if you want to back up your data onto a DVD, UBS pen or to web hosting space to ensure that you have a copy of your important data.

Leeds Computer Laptop Repairs specialise in the repair of all technical device problems such as laptop and computer repairs, laptop screen repairs, computer upgrades and more. If you require a reliable, cheap and friendly laptop and computer repair service then call us now FREEPHONE: 0800 907 0025 | MOBILE: 0759 9585 666

Laptop Screen Repair - Distorted Image & Incorrect Colours

2012-11-21T11:04:00.001+00:00

I was contacted by a student needing their laptop screen repaired. He turned the laptop on and the screen itself was out of focus and colours incorrect or missing. I asked if there were any issues surrounding it that could of caused it but he said it was working he turned it off and the following day it wasn't working properly!

After removing the screen bezel and screen I could determine the lcd cable was connected but also lifted slightly putting pressure on the joint of the connection. I removed the tape and connection refitted it and powered the laptop back on. As soon as I got to the windows log in screen the image had cleared up and colours were perfect!

I collected the laptop last night so all being well will be back to him later today. Luckily for him this was a very quick straight forward job and no parts were needed and the cost was kept to a minimum with his student discount. If you have any problems or are in need of a laptop screen repair similar to this then do get in touch, Leeds Computer Laptop Repair are the number one specialists in and around Leeds.

Toshiba Satellite L300 Restarting When Plugged in

2012-11-14T10:57:00.001+00:00

Today I had a Toshiba satellite L300 pass through which restarts when the power is plug in.

It works on battery power only and charges fine when the power is connected on shutdown. When its turned on with the adapter plug it has a tendency to freeze when on, or sometimes stays on for some time before freezing or restarting.

The problem is caused by a chip the "0E907 NEC TOKIN". This is responsible for the CPU hi speed (hi power) ac plugged in, or low speed (low power) ac unplugged. The Capacitor can be purchased on Ebay or Leeds Computer Laptop Repairs can source one for you.

If you have the right tools and step by step guide you repair the offending chip by yourself. Though it is very advanced and would need you to be comfortable with a soldering gun. After removing and replacing the laptop will work fully and will stop any freezing or random restarting.

Should you have this issue or any other laptop repair leeds, laptop screen repair leeds or anything else please get in touch. FREEPHONE: 0800 907 0025 | MOBILE: 0759 9585 666

Laptop Battery Charge Issue

2012-11-12T10:16:00.000+00:00

First thing this morning I had a lady who was in need of a diagnosis of a laptop battery not charging. She plugged the adapter in and the battery would intermittently charge.

After getting it back to the work shop I removed the battery completely as with most laptop repairs ruling out what is working often is the quickest way to diagnose the problem. After removing the battery and using just the adapter to power on the laptop there was no power. I then tested my compatible adapter which powered it on straight way, I put the battery back in and my adapter charged the laptop fully with no issues. The issue was a failing adapter wire and I sourced a suitable one for her laptop, if you find yourself in this situation try find a friend with a suitable adapter and test it yourself.

Leeds Computer Laptop Repairs specialise in the repair of all technical device problems such as laptop and computer repairs, laptop screen repairs, ipad and tablet screen repairs, computer upgrades and more. If you require a reliable, cheap and friendly laptop and computer repair service then call us now FREEPHONE: 0800 907 0025 | MOBILE: 0759 9585 666

Laptop Screen Bezel Replacement

2012-11-09T11:04:00.000+00:00

As well as laptop screen replacements often at the same time the laptop screen bezel needs replacing. I have covered screen repair but not the plastic bezel. In this post I shall shed a bit of light on the subject and where are the best places to source one from.

The bezel itself is relatively easy to replace and normally very straight forward and cheap to source. You can find many reconditioned bezels on auctions sites and at the end of the day it's a small piece of plastic so not alot can be wrong or defective with it when buying it second hand. Fitting is very straight forward simply removing the screws holding it to the back lid and clip it off (this sometimes requires a fair amount of pressure and are easy to break!). Only key point to note is make sure all screws are removed before trying to take the plastic off.

Leeds Computer Laptop Repairs can advise you on repairs such as laptop screen repairs and more. If you require a reliable, cheap and friendly laptop and computer repair service
call us FREEPHONE: 0800 907 0025 | MOBILE: 0759 9585 666

Leeds Computer Laptop Repairs - Blog Return

2012-11-08T12:00:00.002+00:00

After a lengthy AFK Leeds Computer Laptop Repairs is back on with blogger! The down time was due to being rushed off my feet with several great business leads which lead to there not being enough hours in the day. I'm now past the worst (or best?) of it and have the time again to blog my heart out.

First blog is just an update with much to follow so to everyone that has been waiting with bated breath don't worry you'll be getting a weekly fix of us. So for laptop repair leeds from smashed screens to changing your operating system we are on hand.

If you need a laptop screen repair leeds or need a laptop repair specialist in Leeds then contact Leeds Computer Laptop Repair now.

Computer Boot Sector Virus Removal

2012-04-12T18:38:00.001+01:00

A lady was affected with a boot sector virus today. Many of you may not know but boot sector viruses are the most harmful computer and complex viruses that live in the boot sector of your computer. The boot sector is responsible for loading or booting your computer when it is turned on. You start your computer and the virus is already loaded into your memory. A smartly designed boot sector virus can fool your system that there is no virus at all when it loads. Effective ways to protect your computer from boot sector viruses is to change your operating sector from windows. Windows is a widely used operating system so it is the only operating system that is commonly infected by the viruses unlike Linux or Mac operating systems.

These viruses only attack windows operating system because it is poorly programmed. For example you get an email and attachment, windows is programmed to open the attachment and follow its instructions even if the attached file could damage your computer. Whereas both Linux and Mac operating systems have protection built in to prevent these issues.

If you think your computer is infected with a boot sector virus and you’re not sure how to remove it yourself browse to Google and search “boot sector virus removal” You will find numerous computer repair and virus removal software, alternatively you can contact Leeds Computer Laptop Repairs and we can make sure that the virus is completely removed.

Laptop Virus Removal & Wireless Security

2012-04-05T17:36:00.002+01:00

Today I removed a virus from a laptop for a customer in Hyde Park, Leeds. When I was reconnecting it to their wireless network I realised it was unsecure. At the moment there are two types of security on wireless routers. WEP and WPA, WEP is the older security standard and can easily be hacked. Most BT and SKY run on WEP by default, however they are both capable of the more secure WPA features.

You can check that you are running WPA, or at least WEP. If there is no security anyone within range can connect to your broadband, the real concern of this is that individual could potentially be intercepting all your online activity. Anytime you log onto hotmail or online banking they can be taking your passwords. The importance of wireless security is paramount and if you would like to find out how secure you are please contact us.

Leeds Computer Laptop Repairs specialise in the repair of all technical device problems such as laptop and computer repairs, laptop screen repairs, ipad and tablet screen repairs, computer upgrades and more. If you require a reliable, cheap and friendly laptop and computer repair service then call us now FREEPHONE: 0800 907 0025 | MOBILE: 0759 9585 666

Laptop Headphone Jack Repair

2012-04-04T16:05:00.000+01:00

Right today a music enthusiast managed to break their headphone jack off into the port on the side of the laptop. After many attempts to remove it externally with various tools an getting no where fast a different approach was needed. The tip of the headphone jack where it had broke off was slight raised and wasn't flush with the laptop casing.

Internally I was able to get behind the tip of the headphone jack and put enough pressure on the part which was exposed to slide it out another couple of millimetres. This then allowed the use of some very thing pliers to fully remove the broke jack. Rather strange laptop repair so I thought it was worthy a blog.

Laptop Screen Data Cable Repair

2012-04-02T18:53:00.000+01:00

First job of the day turned out to be a nice cheap repair for the customer. At first glance it seemed to be an issue with the LCD screen and the display was completely white.

This can indicated a problem with the LCD screen itself but also can relate to the connection between the screen and motherboard. After removing the data cable, straightening it out and reconnecting it the display was fully functional again. Turns out that the cable had become bunched inside and for what ever reason at this moment in time chose to stop working. Rather than carrying out a laptop screen repair as many places would advice without checking other issues this customer was very happy to walk away with a fixed laptop for £40!

If you need a laptop screen repair company or need a laptop repair specialist in Leeds then contact Leeds Computer Laptop Repair now.

Laptop Key Replacement

2012-03-29T11:14:00.001+01:00

A fairly common job I encounter on a weekly basis singular or multiple laptop key replacement. Sometimes the customer has managed to keep the keys to one side and not loose them or the clips that go with them, other times the keys have come off and got lost. Either way it's a very small job and very straight forward the majority of the time.

In this particular scenario the laptop keyboard was fully functional but had 2 keys missing. The keys themselves are usually very easy to source if it is a fairly common manufacturer. I ordered the keys along with the clips that come with them to attach them back to the keyboard. It can be a little fiddly at times as the clips are very delicate and easily damaged so it's best to take your time doing it. Once on the keyboard was fully functional and laptop repaired.

Laptop Screen Replacement

2012-03-28T16:07:00.001+01:00

Another laptop screen replacement today. I have covered this topic before but diagnosis was slightly different. This laptop hadn't been smashed or dropped but simply the screen had developed white vertical lines running down it. This is typical of LCD screens of a certain age and simply indicated a laptop screen replacement.

There can be other issues when it comes to lines running down or across the screen, vertical lines usually means the LCD is at fault, horizontal lines could be either the video harness or the GPU. The simplest way to diagnose what's at fault is to use an external monitor and see if any lines display that way you can narrow down what part is at fault.

Laptop Memory Upgrade

2012-03-22T19:26:00.000+00:00

Slow laptops are all too common and with the industry and applications we use becoming ever more resource demanding it's a fact of life that sometimes even the best configured system needs an upgrade. Laptop upgrades are very straight forward cheap and effective. The first and simplest was to speed up your laptop is a memory upgrade.

Without getting too technical the memory basically assists common tasks such as multitasking processes such as having your emails open while typing a word document. The size of the memory determines how fast it can process this information giving the laptop a smoother and less strained feel when using it. The individual who wanted a memory upgrade used intensive audio creating software so it made sense to get the most out of the laptop to increase his productivity. All in all laptop memory upgrades are recommended to everyone but quite often over looked.

Leeds Computer Laptop Repairs specialise in the repair of all technical device problems such as laptop and computer repairs, laptop screen repairs, ipad and tablet screen repairs, computer upgrades and more. If you require a reliable, cheap and friendly laptop and computer repair service then call us now FREEPHONE: 0800 907 0025 | MOBILE: 0759 9585 666

Laptop Keyboard Replacement

2012-03-21T10:55:00.000+00:00

It's a surprise that I haven't blogged about this problem as of yet as it possible is the most common problem I encounter behind cracked laptop screens. I'm talking of course about laptop keyboard replacements, 90% coming from spillage to the keyboard causing irreversible damage to the part. Should the spill be limited and dried out quick enough there is some hope it could function and work as before but most of the time if it does temporarily work then cease to.

A busy mum whose son was eating his dinner while using the laptop knocked his drink over onto it causing the very problem described above. After sourcing the part and fitting the new keyboard all for £40 she was happy with the work and turn around time. Laptop keyboard replacement is a very straight forward job and relatively cheap but the best course of action is to try hold off having that cup of tea while on facebook!

Laptop Data Transfer

2012-03-20T13:38:00.001+00:00

After a busy week due to buying new cars and sorting out paperwork I'm a little behind in my blogs! Back with it now though and worked on some laptop data transfer for a student this morning. She had presentations due this week and needed work exchanging from one laptop to another. As straight forward as this would seem it didn't end up being that way.

One laptop was failing to boot up. She didn't want the expense of sorting the extra laptop out and just wanted data of it temporarily to get on with her uni presentation. Instead of repairing the laptop I simply booted to safe mode recovered the data to usb pen and transferred it across for a nominal charge. She said she did intend to get the laptop repaired at a later date but was more concerned with getting her presentations out the way and work in!

Leeds Computer Laptop Repairs are specialists in computer laptop repairs Ipads, Tablets, Smartphones, Iphones, Portable DVD Players, PSPs, Nintendio DS. We also specialise in Ipad, Tablet and Laptop Screen Repairs in Leeds and the surrounding areas contact us now.

Laptop Motherboard Replacement

2012-03-14T11:09:00.001+00:00

Half way to the weekend and had an unlucky chap with a laptop that would turn on but not output any display. After swapping out the usual (ram, hard drive, cpu etc) trying external display hook up with no luck it has come down to the motherboard. Any time a motherboard dies its a question of cost effectiveness and whether or not due to the age of the laptop would it be worth while investing it a new one.

I try to keep my fitting cost low for motherboards unlike alot of other companies as sometimes people make out there is more to it than there actually is. Alot of the time I've fitted a motherboard as quick as a screen so I see no reason to charge more based on the type of part we fit. Managed to get a new motherboard and fitting for under £90 needless to say the chap was chuffed to bits!