Computer and Phone Repair

Computer and Phone Repair

My daughters have dropped their phones more times than I care to admit (or they care to share)…so much so that even the insurance for accidental damage is used up.  And, heaven help us when the phone stops working completely. The day my daughter’s phone broke, she thought the world would come to an end. But that was nothing compared to the day her computer stopped working!

I have to admit that now that I’ve emerged from the Mesozoic Era and no longer have a landline, I couldn’t live too long without a cell phone either. But when a computer malfunctions and all the work you did or had stored cannot be accessed or, even worse,- may have been lost, it feels like the world is coming to an end. Oh, have I been there! But the good news is that all is NOT lost. There are plenty of repair services available right near campus for these moments.

But First…

I do, however, highly recommend a backup system for computers. I presently use CrashPlan but some of our writers use Carbonite (formerly Mozy). Both back up your computer daily (or as often as you think necessary) so if you ever run into a jam, there is no need to panic. All work (and hope) has not been lost.

For Macbooks, many will back up to the iCloud. As for the phone, encourage them to back it up every once in a while to be sure all their contacts and photos are preserved. I also highly recommend a good phone case. My daughters whined that they were too bulky, but after the fatal dropping of a third phone, I insisted the new phone wear a phone-case at all times. They can even find some fun cases on Casetify…perhaps they won’t complain as much about having a case on their phone when it adds a little sass. Casetify offers a 15% student discount with a verified student status registration or use the link and get 20% off your entire order when purchasing two items or more.

Help is Here

Most of the following resources repair both computers and cell phones.

• UF does have a 24/7 Help Desk that is available by calling 352-392-4357 or emailing helpdesk@ufl.edu. Walk-ins are welcome during their hours of operation.
• Reitz Union Bookstore (in the Reitz Union) – The bookstore has a laptop repair section that students find very helpful.
• UF Computing Help Desk – The Hub and also at Turlington, they provide phone, email, and walk-in consulting services.
• UF Apple Service Center – There is no Apple Store in Gainesville, but they do have an authorized service provider. Fees may apply for out-of-warranty repairs. They do not service iPhones but do service iPads and iPods.
• Best Buy Geek Squad – Archer Road, their agents provide repair, installation, and setup services on all kinds of tech – including computer repair, setup, and support. No matter where you bought your computer or phone, they will help. They are an Authorized Service Provider for Apple.
• Geek3 PC & Mac Repair – This is an on-site computer repair service provider, so they come to you. They guarantee their repairs and do not charge you if they cannot fix what ails your equipment. Check their website for pricing and coupons. They use Microsoft Certified technicians and can service and repair most Mac related issues.
• The Laptop Repair – University Drive, The Laptop Repair offers free technology diagnosis. Services include LCD and cracked screen repair, broken iPhone screen repair, and broken hinge repair. They also address the MacBook water spill, mainboard water damage, keyboard computer repair, battery computer problems, data recovery, and windows OS problems. All of their repairs come with a 60-day warranty.
• UBreakiFix – Archer Road. Most repairs on Smartphones and computers are completed the same day and all their work is backed by a 90-day warranty. They will price-match any competitor.
• EverythingMac – Midtown on NW 18th Street, this is an Apple Authorized Service Provider for AppleCare consumers and out-of-warranty Apple products. You will need to make an appointment. They also have an after-hours emergency email contact form on their website.
• GatorTec – SW 34th Stree in the Publix Plaza, just off I-75. They are an Apple Premier Partner. If your student needs a new Mac, they do offer educational discounts with a valid student ID. They specialize in fixing all apple products including iPhone, Mac, iPad, watch, and AirPods.  Check their pricing as all warranty repairs are subject to a non-refundable diagnostic fee. All iPhone repairs require an appointment.

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