Computer problems can range from being almost unnoticeable, to mildly annoying, to frustrating, to downright costly if it's a necessary component of your business. Regardless of whether your computer is top of the line or a few years old, it's always more pleasant when things are working as they should.
For a while, my computer had been really noisy. The fan would rev up when I did something that really taxed the processor — like, oh, watch a video or even move the mouse around too much. It would sound like my computer was about ready to lift off.
So I finally went to SuperUser.com, a growing information exchange site for all kinds of computer questions. I asked my question here.
It took only a few minutes for Chris_K, another SuperUser member, to answer:
it could be that the original heatsink compound isn't doing the job. I'd try pulling the heatsink, cleaning it and the top of the proc really well (rubbing alcohol, cotton cloth) and then using some good thermal paste and re-attach it.
Of course, you might open the case and make sure you haven't obstructed ventilation with any large dust bunnies first!
Well, I followed the last part of advice, and the inside of my computer was absolutely filthy. I had no idea that so much dust could collect in there. I cleaned it out, started it up, and you'd think that I had bought a new computer the way it sounds now. It's so quiet!
This was a nearly instantaneous service call, and it was free. Last week, Nickel sent out a tweet asking for recommendations for a high-power wireless router. A few months ago I asked for ways to stream internet audio through a conventional tuner, and got several helpful responses. These kinds of questions are perfect for SuperUser.com.
Oh, by the way: If you're looking for programming answers or sysadmin answers, check out StackOverflow.com and ServerFault.com. Same idea. These are free, too.
Very helpful! Thanks for the tips. Man I hate it when computers go bad.
I always Google and try to troubleshoot my own computer problems before asking for any help.
Actually, come to think of it, I have NEVER paid for any computer help.. I can usually find enough friends around me, and like you said — on Twitter or the internet — to figure out the solution.