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Does anyone know if there's a guide to those computer manufacturers that have outsourced their tech support from the U.S.? I used to think HP had the best support. I now think they're among the worst, and that seriously affects my choice of a new computer and peripherals. Thanks.
I can't answer that question but I have one for you. Are you considering any of the big box vendors for a home use PC or for the business environment?
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I can't answer it either, but HP seems to have caught a case of the dumass after aquiring compaq.
Three most important factors for laptop purchase:
Toshiba
Toshiba
Toshiba
M2If at first you don't succeed, you're about average.
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Ok, I guess then your concerns are valid. I defer to someone with more knowledge about tech support. I was looking at suggesting using a local VAR that is a authorised reseller for the brand you are interested in. Our local township offices use Dell computers and purchase them in this manner. They also have maintenence contracts for work not covered under any warranty from these same people. This works out much better. For instance, if say a hardware component were to go out under warranty, these folks stock Dell components and complete the repair usually the same, or next day. With a laptop I would look for a warranty that included local repair, if possible. Sending a laptop away for warranty repair is BS. I've been there with cell phones. You rely on these things and when you need to mail them off somewhere and wait 2 or more weeks to get them back that is inconvenient to say the least.
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Hi salgolf,
I've owned a few and handled a bunch.
Toshibas are very well designed and built.
O H makes a very good point about not being left with no machine for weeks.
Some makers / resellers will FedEx you a loaner. So if you have an up-to-date image, slap on the image and away you go.
M2If at first you don't succeed, you're about average.
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One of my client called Compaq for repair. The next day, someone from the area came to pick up the laptop. This made me believe those big name manufacturers contract the work to local technicians as a way of saving money.
i_XpUser
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M2 -
Thanks. That's my problem with HP. I've used nothing but for a good 15 years. Always liked them, etc., etc. But their support has just collapsed. I rarely have to use it since I generally can solve my own problems. But when I need it, I want it to be excellent.
I'll give Toshiba a good look. Thanks again.
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Thanks XpUser. I live so far in the boondocks that there are no local vendors or repair people.
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If Compaq works like Dell, then it may be the type warranty your client had. With Dell, they have a next day warranty service where a contracted tech does the repair (believe Dell uses Bantec, who most likely further subcontracts.
Actually, salgolf, you've surprised me. I'd have thought you were a "build your own" guy.
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Dell is in India, Gateway is still in the states. If you are going to purchase a laptop and money is not an issue go with an IBM ThinkPad. There is no better laptop on the planet.
In all of my years as a tech I have only had to work on 1 IBM ThinkPad and they are built like brick s--- houses.
Most big box companies have outsourced most of their departments. That is life.
KTTD
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Most big box companies have outsourced most of their departments to the cheers of their investors and the tears of their loyal workers.
i_XpUser
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JohnO - Sorry to disappoint. Used to sort of build my cars a hundred years ago when that was possible. Probably could build a desktop, but one, don't have the time, and two, on balance the pros probably do a better job.
KTTD - Thanks. Sounds like good advice. I'll consider it along with all the other good advice this thread has provided.
Oops? Just read XpUser's note about IBM going to China. Does that change your thougt Kevin?
Thanks everyone.
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before purchasing a gateway read
http://www.scottj.net/archives/000412.aspthey did close their tech support center
in sioux falls, sd among all their other closings. at one time they were among the top.
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