Question : Why do Re-installations or New Installations take so long ?
Answer : A Windows installation does not take all that long; normally around 2 Hours, however, rather than do a half job, we at CComputers would rather return or supply a machine completely up-to-date in terms of Microsoft Critical Updates. We also pride ourselves on consistency, and each and every machine that passes through for re-installation is done to a certain standard and includes a lot of the basic programs the clients use but forget they use, such as Abobe Reader.
The Microsoft Critical Updates were mentioned, these updates are largely Web based downloads, and although as the end-user you don't really see the benefits of these updates, they are essential for closing up security holes which viruses use to gain access to your machine. As these downloads are based on internet speed and stability the time frame's can vary for completion.
Viruses are another concern, if a machine is re-installed or a new installation is taking place but the machine has been quoted without Antivirus Software, we take it upon ourselves to install a Free Antivirus package and make sure it is completely up to date, thus preventing short term virus infection. This is particularly important if previous data from either a failed machine, or straight data transfer it required.
All in All, a "good" re-installation or new installation, will take around 24-48 Hours dependant on the speed of the machine, while the actual labour required will be around 4-5 Hours.
Question : Why does it take 48 hours for the Supplier to supply a new machine ?
Answer : The quick answer for this is, testing. Although all components used in machine assembly are of the highest quality, they are mass produced components and as with any manufacturing process errors can creep in. The assembly of a machine takes around 15-30 Minutes and in most cases could be shipped straight away, however to prevent any problems with the machine (Short or Long Term), the completed assembly under go's a stringent quality control check, were each of the components undergo load testing and repetative stress load testing. This is done to so the assembled units can be supplied with confidence.
Question : Is there any Maintenance I need to do to keep my machine running ?
Answer : There are no components inside a computer an end-user can maintain to prevent problems with the machine.
Environmentally, the end-user can ensure the unit is kept in a cool relatively dust and dirt free enviroment, and the unit has enough space around the casing to allow for the proper and intended airflow.
Electronically, the end-user can ensure the unit has a consistent and suitable power supply with the aid of an UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) unit, which regulates and corrects (If Necessary) the electrical supply to the computer.
In terms of the software, always ensure you have an antivirus installed and it is kept completely up to date. Windows has built in programs to assist with basic maintenance functions, these are called Scandisk and Defragment both relating to the hard drive, these can be run periodically (Once a month), as they detect problems early and maintain the file structure and file order in a logical sequence for the machine.
