28 September 2008

Further Adventures with a Mac Genius

So, I had taken my computer in to the Apple store about a month ago. I was told the mother board was swapped out. I was also told the problem with the iSight was fixed. About a week ago, I turned my computer on and the little green light was blinding me with its insolence. Last night, I tried to burn a CD while running on battery power. The battery was full and the computer shut itself down after about five minutes of running. I immediately called Apple to sort out the problem. The first woman I talked to wanted to direct me to a certified Mac specialist in the area. (The closest store is an hour away.) She was really nice but I carefully explained to her my frustration with having purchased a new item two years ago and having to regularly get things fixed. (I've had the iSight looked at about four times, the keyboard/trackpad have been replaced twice, the hard-drive was switched out and mor recently, the motherboard was switched out.) At this point, she said she would call a higher up and see what she could do.

Fifteen minutes later, she called me back because I decided I did not want to wait on the line. I was connected with another woman, Melissa, who walked me through some diagnostics after asking me all of the "now, are you sure you're not an idiot at computers" questions. (Do you put the computer on blankets or directly in your lap?) (No.) I assured her that I did not do those things and she had me run some diagnostics. She then told me that they were going to send me a new battery, free of charge. It should be noted that the last guy from a month ago wanted to charge me the full amount of $129 because he thought my battery was a "little worn down." This woman was certain there was something bigger going on. I mentioned my iSight woes to her as well. When she heard all the problems I was having, she said that if there was one more problem with my computer after the new battery was installed. If there is one more problem, I will be getting a new computer. At this point, I don't really care about iLife 08. What I would really love is a computer that I don't have to have repaired on a monthly basis.

Will they send me a refurbished computer from two years ago? Or will I just get the same "generation" computer with the same specs (and problems?)

I'm just excited to have a computer that works again. The new battery comes on Monday or Tuesday. A little part of me hopes it doesn't work and I just get a new computer. Okay, a big part.

I can assure you, I have treated my computer well. No bathing or dropping. It sits atop an old geography book so the fans can breathe. I have loved it well. I hope it loves me back soon.

-Theresa

No comments: