Computer Screen Has Gone Wobbly---HELP!!!

Self | August 28, 2009 | PJ-Comix

[PJ-Comix]

How’s your wobbly little electronic friend doing today?

Still wobbly. Plus it took me awhile to even get the screen turned on. Also when the 'puter first booted up the fan sounded like it was on hyperdrive. After two boot ups the screen finally came on but still wobbly. I went to Best Buy and talked to a Geek Squad guy. He told me that it sounded like I needed a new graphics card. However, since my computer is about 4 years old, I really don't feel like pouring more money into this one so I put the word out to one of my posses to send me a "new" used computer. Used computers aren't worth much so they might as well send one to me so I can take my time waiting for a sale.

[PJ-Comix]

Unless your tower is outdated and you want a new one or has some strange propriety mobo that won't take a videocard you should be able to get a card cheap and they're nothing but easy to replace. But first check your cables, get that monitor on a system that works to proof it, then consider a new video card or new tower.

Geek squad guy told me about $40 to buy a graphics card but he recommended I not try to replace it myself. Since the computer sounded like the fan was in overdrive when I first booted up this morning, I am guessing it is the video card. Geek Squad guy said I shouldn't try it myself and that it would cost about a hundred including labor. However, I was thinking of replacing the computer in a few months anyway and don't want to spend more money on it. Therefore I am now looking for a free used computer someone is getting rid of anyways so I have time to bargain shop for a new one sometime over the next few months. I already put the word out on this.

[normanpubbie]

It'll be a while before the posse returns with the computer since they'll have to stop at the Long Branch saloon and chat up Miss Kitty.

So let's get to the interesting part of the switch: transferring all of your data to the replacement computer. A couple of questions:

1. Do you have backups of all your data on CD's, DVD's, external HD, USB flash drive?
2. If not, do you need assistance in getting the data to the replacement unit?

[PJ-Comix]

This week I’m going to start transferring data to CDs. A lot of programs are online via Google. For example, I ONLY use the online google Word program.

[normanpubbie]

Good luck and keep up the good work!

[normanpubbie]

If the posse gets drygulched and the computer doesn’t show up, you might consider getting a Vista box and monitor. The Win7 availability date is October 22. Most Vista machines that you buy between now and then come with a free upgrade to Win7; some vendors charge $10 for the upgrade.

[normanpubbie]

It’s been a few days. Did you save all your data to another device? Do you need any assistance?

BTW, I liked your NewsBusters bio the best of the three. Hilarious!

[PJ-Comix]

Still wobbly. Will take it for fixing after Labor Day weekend. BTW, often when I turn it on, the fan sounds like it is on high speed and the screen doesn’t come on at all. Should I continue to let it run like that? Would that correct the problem?

[normanpubbie]

Most computers have a front-panel light that comes on when the power button is pushed ON. On yours, if you push the button ON does the front-panel light still come on even if the screen stays dark?

[normanpubbie]

Never mind post #109 — you have already answered that question.

[normanpubbie]

Mr. Gladnick,

I have been looking through all your posts on this thread trying to analyze your computer's problem. But I was somewhat concerned at posts #101 and #102 about the having the Geek squad guy fix your box. Posters (myself included) have suggested fixing your current machine or buying a new computer. On the repair option, it could run over $100.

Once you get north of $100, you are in the decent used computer price range. This country is awash in good used computers. You might get one as a backup to tide you over until you get a shiny new machine in the next few months.

Think about what you are using the computer for. Are you a gamer or trying to maintain the Library of Congress holdings database? No? Then a 1.6 GHz processor, 256 MB RAM, 80 GB hard drive with a DVD burner would work great. It would still outrun your high-speed Internet connection. And since you're using Google's Word feature, you're using their high-power processing, not your own.

So how much money are we talking here? Every month in Oklahoma they have computer shows in Tulsa and OKC. I could pick up such a combo here for less than $150. With a slower processor and smaller hard drive, maybe $100. The vendors at the show have all been in the show for years and they stand by their stuff. I don't know what the used computer situation is in Florida, but I bet one of your business or personal acquaintances does.

Assuming this used computer idea might have some appeal, you still have two issues to resolve. The first is the monitor -- does it have a problem or not? Surely you have a relative, friend, or business acquaintance who owns a laptop. Have them bring it to your place and plug your monitor into it. (Sometimes you have to use the laptop's function keys to get the video to the monitor). That'll tell you if the monitor has a problem.

The second issue is getting your stuff transferred to the replacement machine. I assume that you have already backed up all your creations on DVDs or CDs but you could also do a wholesale data transfer computer-to-computer which is basically a software issue.

Dang, I hate to spend more money than I have to :)

[PJ-Comix]

Good idea on the computer show. Yes, we have one here. I bought my scanner and some other stuff there. I’ll probably go to the next one in town and get a ‘puter there. Like you said, I don’t need anything fancy since I’m not into video games.

[PJ-Comix]

On yours, if you push the button ON does the front-panel light still come on even if the screen stays dark?

Yup.

[PJ-Comix]

Dang, I hate to spend more money than I have to

Another way to save money is to access TV shows via the web. Satellite TV and cable sucks you in with INITIAL low rates and then later raises them dramatically. A lot of folks I know are fighting back by dumping those services and getting them free via the Web. If cable and satellite services don't dramatically cut their rates, they will soon find that people will go to the free Web option.

[normanpubbie]

Since we're talking TV and major cheap here, you might consider getting a DTV converter box and hooking it to your old analog TV to watch off-the-air TV. The feds gave away $40 coupons which expire after 3 months. Although they stopped the program, there are still a lot of unused coupons out there. With a coupon, the DTV converter costs $13 (including tax) at Wallyworld. In addition, you'll need an indoor antenna of some type and one dual RCA cable which can be used for audio or video. Most stations transmit two separate programs but some have 3,4, or 5. The big advantage of DTV reception is you either get no picture (insufficient signal) or a perfect one. You'll also need a video switch to go between cable and broadcast but they're cheap.

Here's my experience: I live about 30 miles from most of the TV towers. With the coupon, the DTV box was $13. I also bought a $14 "flat" antenna for my converter box. I get 15 channels. About six of these are religious or Spanish, but three play old TV shows and movies. I'm considering getting an amplified antenna for $30 which would pull in 10 more programs.

[normanpubbie]

I never answered your question about the noisy fan. The fan noise is likely caused by one of two problems. Either the blades are hitting against a wire or the bearings are bad. But as long as the fan runs, your computer is protected. When it stops, that's the time to worry :)

I have a suggestion for the wavering display: Rename the computer "George" and when it acts up, say in your most Thatcherian voice, "Don't go wobbly on us, George!"

[PJ-Comix]

Damn! I just checked and it looks like no more MarketPro Computer shows in Fort Lauderdale. I used to go to those shows once in a while. Great prices. I bought my scanner there cheap.

Now I have to look for another outlet. Perhaps TigerDirect. They have a store outlet in Miami near where my in-laws work but would like a closer place to buy in Broward County.