looking for cheap computer repair

[shaquilvaine]

I live in Milwaukee and have an Acer laptop that the kids destroyed.  Needs a new hinge for the monitor and a new power cord.  Any of you techies with advice for a novice?

[mu_hilltopper]

First, the power cord .. get a new one on eBay for $10-30.   I just bought a universal laptop power supply for $20 shipped.

As for the laptop hinge .. that's a tough one.  Are we talking about cracked plastic as well?  If so, it's doubtful a geeksquad group would fix that .. and I'd guess you're talking north of $100 easy.

I'd consider buying a new laptop.  I hit a great deal at BestBuy in November for an Acer, $250.  Now that's crazy cheap.  But you can routinely find laptops at $350-400.

[john_cocktoasten]

What are you using the computer for? Do you watch a lot of video, movies, or play video games on you computer?

If it's simply used for internet access then you can get a cheap laptop at Best Buy...

I bought a 2 GB 15" Toshiba laptop at Best Buy for $350. It's a stripped down laptop that doesn't have all the bells and whistles that a typical laptop would have but it works perfect. I've had this computer for a year and it's worked fine for me.

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Toshiba+-+Satellite+Laptop+with+Intel%26%23174%3B+Celeron%26%23174%3B+Processor+-+Silver/9716078.p?id=1218158633527&skuId=9716078

[Benny B]

Assuming that your Acer is more than 2 years old, I wouldn't put more than $100 into a damaged laptop unless it was tricked out beyond belief or designed/spec'd for a specific purpose.  99% of the time, you're better off getting a new (or newer used) laptop.

If your old laptop was just a run-of-the-mill machine, you can probably get by with just about anything bought at retail today.  Between Best Buy, Walmart/Sam's, and Amazon you'll definitely find something.

If you're not opposed to a used machine, there are several reputable dealers/liquidators on eBay where you can get a decent laptop for under $200.  You could probably even get a few bucks listing your old machine for parts.

And finally, there's always the DIY route if you or a handy friend is feeling creative.

[reinko]

Or just pickup a cheapo flat-screen monitor, and voila, your laptop is now a desktop.

[shaquilvaine]

Thanks guys.  I went the ebay route and found a power cord dirt cheap.  A computer repair store wanted 50 bucks for a cord and 75 for one hinge.  Still looking for a hinge, but I think I will find one soon.