Frequently Asked Questions

How long have you been in business?
With years of experience before officially opening up, North Wind Computer formed its' business name and
started in early 1996. Now celebrating our 12 year anniversary!

How many employees do you have working?
North Wind Computer is a family-based business, husband and wife. 

Do you have an open shop?
No. We work by appointment only but are generally available same or next day where the big guys probably
are not! 

What are your educational background(s)?
Scott has a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science from Western Connecticut State University in 1995.  Heidi
obtained her Bachelor's Degree in photography from Syracuse University in 1991.

Are you hiring?
Thanks for your inquiry. Unfortunately, however, we have just the right amount of work that we don't need
to outsource.  We wish you the best in your search!

What are your rates?
Rates as of July 1, 2008
$95/hr for on-site work $75 min charge. First 5mi one way of driving included. $1/mi after 1st 5mi one way.
$65/hr for off-site work in which the customer drops off their computer and picks up. $32.50 minimum charge.
$65/hr for work done over the telephone or via remote control utilities (Remote Assistance, VNC, etc...)
 
If driving to my location, do you charge for mileage?
In the past, we have been very generous in not charging for mileage, but in this day and age where gas prices
are 4X what they used to be, we have set up a new policy of charging $1 per mile after the first 5 miles. In
other words, if you're 15 miles from us, the first hour will be an extra $10.

My computer is experiencing pop-ups and is running much slower than it used to. Can you help?
Definitely - this is our most commonly asked question. A 1 hour tune-up often fixes these spyware and viruses
that slow your computer down!

I'd like to save some money and bring my computer to you to work on. Where are you located?
We're about 7 minutes from the Concord Wal-Mart.  Contact us and we'll provide you with directions. We do
work by appointment only but are often available same or next day to receive your machine.

Can you fix my computer over the phone?
We strongly discourage this, however, in many circumstances, we can connect to your computer remotely and
fix it, at a reduced rate.  Unfortunately, by trying to solve a problem over the phone, it can take two billable hours
when in reality, we could have fixed it with 15-30 minutes if we had direct access to the computer!  It can get
frustrating people on both ends of the telephone!  Please read our remote assistance page to learn more about
how we can work remotely!

Do you accept credit cards?
Through Paypal only. It's free to sign up, and very secure!  Mastercard, Visa, Discover, and American Express
are accepted.  We can also send you an invoice with a link allowing you to pay with credit card if you do not wish
to sign up for a Paypal account.

I bought my computer from XYZ. Will you work on it?
Of course!

Do you fix laptops?
All software problems, of course. Hardware-wise, we are limited to memory, battery and hard drive problems. If
your laptop has a dead screen or a broken motherboard, we can make recommendations and let you know if it's
worth the price to have it fixed elsewhere. Desktop parts are very easy to come by, laptop parts, excluding
memory, hard drives, and some batteries are very expensive. Contact us first and we'll steer you in the right
direction, regardless!

Do you (still) build computers?
We try not to.  In order to stay competitive in our pricing, we would have to build a computer at almost near cost.
Add the responsibility of providing a warranty on the unit and supporting it - it would prove near impossible to
make a profit on the sale!

What do you recommend for a new computer?
As of the last few years, we have been more than satisfied with Dell desktops and laptops.  If you're not sure
which model is right for you, you're welcome to hire us for consulting services - to help you purchase the
right unit, and/or set it up, if you so desire.

Do you host websites?
Yes, we are in the website hosting business, as well. If you think you're paying to much for your website
hosting and would like to deal with a local business you can call at 8 in the evening or on weekends, contact
us, we might be able to work something out!

I noticed BitznBytes on Loudon Road went out of business - do you service Macs?
There are certain circumstances where we can work on Macs, and other circumstances where you're better
off dealing right with Apple.  Contact us with your situation and we'll do our best!

What are your hours?
We work preferably by appointment.  E-mail us for a speedy response, or call us between 9:30am and
9pm, 7 days a week!