My wife starts crying when she sees me with a circular saw. She knows something I won't easily admit, I'm totally inept when it comes to power tools.
So my hat is off to you if you are self-aware enough to know that the only tool you should use -- when it comes to fixing a computer, at least -- is a plastic credit card. If that's you, save yourself some time and don't bother reading today's column.
But those of you with the inclination, time and patience for a few do-it-yourself computer chores can stick around. We'll talk about some minor tasks that safely can be done at home. Before we start, do both of us a favor: Ask your spouse if he or she agrees you belong in this group.
I'll list a few of these tasks and -- since a column doesn't provide enough room to go into great detail -- I will offer some links to guide you through the jobs. We'll also talk about "gotchas" that can turn an easy job into a tragic mess.
General rules
Make sure you have plenty of time available for the task. Rushing or skipping steps can be fatal. Find a clean workspace with plenty of light. Go over the steps involved in the job at least once before starting. If you have questions or doubts don't start until you've cleared all that up.
Adding memory
I've started with something easy. And this excellent guide from Microsoft -- http://tinyurl.com/nvhol3 -- offers a step-by-step approach to adding more memory. It even has photos that show you exactly what things will look like under the hood.
Even if you have never before opened up your computer's case you should be up for this job. But there are pitfalls. The link I've listed offers a way to avoid one obvious mistake: buying the wrong type of memory for your machine.
It's also important to know that memory chips, like many other components inside the computer, are sensitive to static electricity. Even jolts too small to feel can do damage. At the least, touch the metal chassis to discharge any static before handling a chip. Or, do things right and buy an anti-static ground strap. You can pick up one at Radio Shack for about $6 (catalog No. 276-2397). Keep this advice about static in mind for any repair you do inside your computer.
And, as will also be true for all the jobs I mention, if the directions that come from the manufacturer conflict with what you see on the websites, do the job as directed by the manufacturer.
Installing a video card
So much of what your computer does involves graphics it paints on the screen. At times it can make sense to add a new video card, or to install one in a computer that has what's called "on board graphics" instead of a separate video card.
Here are a couple of Web links that will help you choose the correct video card for your machine and then guide you through the installation process:
http://tinyurl.com/9dnly OR
http://tinyurl.com/6j4×2x5
As far as gotchas, make sure you buy a video card that will work with your specific computer. Consult your computer's manual or find an electronic version of that manual online to get that information. The installation of the card and the driver (a tiny computer program that lets your computer communicate with the card) is straightforward. But keep one of the do-it-yourselfer's oldest rules in mind: If something doesn't seem to fit, you're probably doing things wrong. Don't use brute force.
Adding a new hard disk
The task itself is surprisingly easy, much easier than it was six or seven years ago when there were all sorts of jumpers to change. The hard disk has just two electrical connections: one for power, the other for data. No soldering is required, just unplug those connections, attach them to the new disk and you're in business.
For all the details try this Web page: http://tinyurl.com/2za8kj
I doubt that you'll have problems with the installation itself. Here's where the usual mistakes are made. If you are replacing a disk -- rather than adding a second one -- you'll need to reinstall Windows, all your programs and all the data that was on your old disk. Before starting make a good back-up of all the data on the old disk. Make sure you have a copy of Windows so it can be installed. And you'll need the original installation discs for all the programs you use. Don't even think of starting the job until you've done all these things.
There's a lot of satisfaction in doing some minor computer tasks yourself. And, with the right preparation, you're unlikely to have problems.
But, even if you consider yourself competent to do these tasks, reflect on this. Even skilled technicians occasionally make mistakes, so there is always the chance that you'll magically turn your nice PC into an over-sized paperweight.
I think you'll do just fine. But then I also am convinced that I'm truly competent with power tools.
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