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(Continued from page 4) memory stick to create an image of the
system disk on the external one.
Although it can be very time-consuming, you · If the hardware is good, use the restora-
can attempt to clean up the file system. This tion partition to return the PC file system
means removing malware, pop-ups, spurious to its state at purchase time. (In the un-
menu bars, and the like. It may also require likely case that the owner has a valid
disabling programs that launch at boot time, Windows installation disk, you don’t
and perhaps editing the registry. This is likely need a restoration partition.)
to be frustrating as the owner still has the bad
habits that caused these problems, meaning · If the hardware has failed, the owner
the will most likely recur. can decide whether to have the PC re-
paired or replace it. After this, do what
you can to restore the data you have
Before you agree to anything, try to find out saved, but make it clear that some may
how the problem began. Did they install hard- be lost.
ware or software? Did they see a pop-up or · Be sure the owner understands that a
get a phone call or message advising them of new PC or a clean install of the operat-
a problem? Did they visit a new website? Did ing system means any applications in-
they delete files or directories by mistake? Did stalled after purchase will be lost unless
the symptoms appear suddenly of build over he or she has their original installation
time? You are trying to discover whether the disks.
problem resulted from hardware failure, soft-
ware failure, malware, or operator error. · The last option is to attempt a repair.
However, before you jump into this tar
pit, be sure the owner understands and
If you have decided to help, this is what I rec- accepts the risks. He or she should pur-
ommend. (Most likely you’ll modify these steps chase the parts, with your advice of
to fit your own experience and tools.) Before course. Be sure to make clear that you
you begin, be sure the user understands that are amateur in unfamiliar territory and
you are an amateur, and that you can’t guar- that success is not assured. For exam-
antee success. ple, if the disk has failed because of a
faulty power supply, its replacement
· For a casual friend, find out what you
can over the phone and recommend a may be damaged immediately. Who
shop. pays?
· If you decide to get more involved, go
to the house with a diagnostic USB This is not to say you shouldn’t try to help, but
memory stick and check the hardware it would be prudent to think about your possi-
and file system. Write down what you ble approaches as well as the risks before you
find and recommend a shop. get the phone call. You don’t want to disap-
point a friend or cause them to lose money.
· If this is a very good friend or a close
relative, tell them not to use the PC un- ===================================
til you can image their PC’s disk. (If you
don’t have a spare USB hard disk they
will have to purchase one for the pur-
pose.) Then use your diagnostic
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