Getting started in laptop repair

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Clarification of Question by pcventures-ga on 20 Jun 2003 10:29 PDT

I fix desktop computer problems with aplomb - both software and
hardware.  I can build a new machine, swap out motherboards, drives,
etc.
 However, I have disappointed a number of my clients when they've
asked me to fix laptop hardware problems.
 I think the laptop manufacturers make it difficult to get parts and
service information.
 Any advice on getting the right info and/or parts would be
appreciated.

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Clarification of Question by pcventures-ga on 20 Jun 2003 13:54 PDT

>If you want to order
>replacement parts from a company, many companies require you to become
>certified through their certification programs. 

That why I posted this question - I was hoping to get around that
problem.

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Clarification of Question by pcventures-ga on 23 Jun 2003 09:13 PDT

>Another question I have is, why don't you want to become certified?
>Sometimes it's pretty easy. Some companies will give you a
>certification if you take the test online. Others will just give you a
>certification if you have your A+ certification.

I am A+ certified.  It's not that I don't want to become certified
with each of the manufacturers - it's that it wouldn't be worth it
to spend a lot of money and/or travel if that's what certification
would require.

Thanks...

I used to service misc. computer laptops. As far as tools all you
really need are a good set of small screwdrivers, a screw retrieval
tool (to pick up dropped screws), and a tool called a "case cracker",
which is essentially a wedge of plastic used to pry apart the cases of
laptops. Other than that it's just some know how. If you want to order
replacement parts from a company, many companies require you to become
certified through their certification programs. These are obtained in
several different ways, some through the web, some classes and some in
other fashions. Some on the other hand won't let you order parts at
all (I have had this problem with Gateway).

Let me know if you need more clarification.

Scott Mueller has a new book coming out in October:

"Upgrading and Repairing Laptop Computers"

Originally it was schecduled for summer but the date slipped.

Well, frankly there really isn't any way to get around that problem if
you want to order replacement parts directly from the company. The
idea being they don't want people who don't know what they are doing
attempting repairs on laptops. They are considerably more difficult to
repair compared to desktop machines. However, if you wanted to order
replacement parts from another vendor (possiably off the net) then
that might be an option for you. Another option might be to visit
either CompUSA or Best Buy and have them order it through their tech
shop. I'm not sure if they would do this but it is a possability for
you.

Another question I have is, why don't you want to become certified?
Sometimes it's pretty easy. Some companies will give you a
certification if you take the test online. Others will just give you a
certification if you have your A+ certification.