Laptop Problems/Expert Profile

Expertise

I can answer questions concerning upgrades, software issues, hardware diagnosis, and LCD screens. I have disassembled Toshiba, HP, Compaq, Dell, and Twinhead laptops to repair broken power connectors and melted solder points. I am familiar with the hardware aspect of laptops internally and externally. I have connections for acquiring FRUs (Field Replacement Units) at a low cost. I cannot answer questions that I do not receive. :) I like to be challenged.

Experience in the area

A lifetime of dedication. I started out writing BASIC programs on the Apple ][e and TRS-80 in the third grade. In fifth grade I started teaching myself IBM Assembly Language (without using a macro assembler) on the 80x86 platform. I was given retired laptops for investigating. I also have taught myself electrical theory. I know the innards of the Windows family of operating systems, beginning with Windows 3.0 all the way to Windows 7. I can troubleshoot hardware and software issues.

Organizations

I belong to various groups on LinkedIn, such as IT Repair Professionals, Hardware Experts Group, etc.

Publications

No submissions.

Education/Credentials

***UPDATE: On December 29, 2011 I earned my CIW Web Design Specialist certification.*** I graduated at the top of my class at an occupational technical center (Warren Tech) during my senior high school year (1997). I designed, configured, and maintained the first network at my junior high school in its library. I completed my Associates degree in IT with a concentration in IT support on September 11, 2011 with a 3.97 GPA. Throughout the program I helped other students learn the curriculum, which was a review for me. I am continuing my education and pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Network Design or Software Engineering (I have not decided yet, I still have a few weeks). I wish it was possible to start my education at the Masters level, because the bachelor programs available to me are not as advanced as I had hoped.

Awards and Honors

My friends honor my abilities, but have not earned recognition from the industry because I have not used my skills in the business world. I have only worked in other industries as a laborer because I live in a rural area with little IT-related businesses. Received Honors recognition for my Associates degree in IT Support.

Past/Present Clients

Classmates at University of Phoenix, relatives, and a few local companies.

What do you like about this subject?

The wide variety of issues. Something new happens on a daily basis. I rarely hear the same story twice.

What do you still hope to achieve/learn in this field?

Why do laptop engineers only cool the processor and not the entire case? And why are the vents located on the bottom of the case where air is difficult to move? Why are there no intake vents, and only exhaust vents?

Something interesting about this subject that others may not know:

Laptop keyboards are self-enclosed in a plastic sheath. Meaning if you spill water on the keyboard only (less than one ounce), chances are the liquid will not enter the laptop case. It is still wise to power it off as soon as possible and remove the battery and all peripherals. Fold a thin paper towel in half and slide it between the rows of keys slowly until it begins to absorb the liquid.

Something controversial or provocative about this subject

When laptops are returned for warranty repairs the manufacturer will restore the hard drive to the factory image each time. Back up your personal data and anything else you want to be preserved before sending it in for warranty repair. If you are comfortable swapping parts, ask them to send you the replacement part so you do not have to worry about them wiping your hard drive.