Software problems are frustrating. Hardware problems are expensive if they’re guessed at.
When a component fails, the difference between a good repair and a bad one is diagnosis. Swapping parts until something works is how a $180 job becomes a $600 one. We test properly, identify the component that’s actually failed, and show it to you before we replace anything.
Components we diagnose and replace
- Power supplies — the most common cause of a computer that suddenly won’t turn on, and one of the cheapest fixes when it’s diagnosed correctly.
- Storage drives — failing hard drives and SSDs, usually caught by SMART warnings, unusual noise or files that won’t open. If a drive is on its way out we’ll talk to you about data recovery before we do anything else.
- Memory (RAM) — random crashes, blue screens and freezes that look like a software problem but aren’t. Tested with proper diagnostics, not guesswork.
- Cooling — failed fans, blocked heatsinks and dried thermal paste cause shutdowns, throttling and noise. Often a clean rather than a replacement.
- Motherboards — bulging capacitors, failed ports, no-POST faults. We’ll tell you honestly when a board replacement costs more than the machine is worth.
- Graphics cards — artefacts, crashes under load, fan failure, display faults.
- Ports and connectors — charging sockets, USB, HDMI and audio jacks. Common on laptops and very repairable.
- Batteries — swollen, not holding charge, or reporting incorrectly. A swollen battery is a genuine safety issue — bring it in rather than leaving it.
Upgrades, while it's open
If a machine is already apart, upgrades are cheap to do at the same time:
- SSD upgrades — the single biggest speed improvement available for most older computers
- Memory increases for multitasking, photo editing or virtual machines
- Larger or additional storage
- Graphics upgrades for gaming, CAD or video work
- Better cooling for machines running hot
Parts we use
Genuine or equivalent-quality components, chosen to suit the machine and how long you plan to keep it. If there’s a cheaper option that changes the lifespan or performance, we’ll explain the trade-off and let you choose rather than deciding for you.
Frequently asked
Can you repair the actual component, or only replace it?
Both, depending on the part. Some faults are repairable, many are more economically replaced. We’ll tell you which situation you’re in.
Can you fix a computer I didn't buy from you?
Yes. Most of what comes across the bench was bought somewhere else.
Do you work on custom-built PCs?
Yes — we build them ourselves, so we’re comfortable inside them.
My laptop battery has swelled up. Is that urgent?
Yes. Stop using it, don’t charge it, and bring it in.
Bring it in, or give us a ring
Ring +61 3 9874 3333 or bring it in to 63 Mitcham Road, Donvale.