Mach4 Computer Services

Mach4 have been contacted on several occasions by customers that have taken their computers into PC World for repairs and upgrades and have lost their valuable data.

The latest customer had taken their PC into PC World for a motherboard replacement, on return, the PC worked fine, but all data and programmes were missing from the hard disk. PC World had overwritten the original operating system and data sectors of the hard disk and the data was irretrievable. Evidently, the customer had inadvertently signed a disclaimer warning them of data loss, but was not aware of the implications. The hard drive was not defective before or after the motherboard replacement.

Mach4 ALWAYS back up customer data before undertaking major repairs or upgrades and explain to our valued customers that, when a reinstallation of the operating system is necessary, they will not lose their valuable documents, music and digital image files, but will have to reinstall programmes with the original software, or download new software using their customer log-in on the vendor site.

Our examination of the hard disk confirmed that the data had been overwritten and, unfortunately, was not recoverable.

Regular back-up of valuable data onto an external device is recommended, particularly when taking the computer in for major repair, if this is not possible, customers should confirm with the technician that data will be retrieved and backed up prior to carrying out work on their computer. Of course such action is not necessary with Mach4 who will always work to the needs of the customer.

So, your desktop computer has stopped working and you face the quandary of whether to repair, or replace it with a new one.

Replace:

• Cost from major retailer - £300 - £800
• Cost from Mach4 from £200
• You can retain the monitor, mouse and keyboard
• The printer may not be compatible if it has an parallel port connection; most new motherboards do not support parallel ports and this function has been replaced by USB, ethernet or wireless printers (for some motherboards, an add on parallel port is possible).
• If the hard disk is damaged, a new operating system may be required.
• Files and settings transfer can be expensive is carried out as a stand-alone service by some IT technicians.
• Programmes may have to be repurchased or replaced if supplied with the PC.