It’s never a dull moment in my business. Here’s the scenario.
- Custom built computer that is 9+ years old (nobody knows)
- Tekon s1692 Motherboard
- Windows XP doesn’t fully recognize the USB controller
- No driver cd’s or files – and nearly impossible to dig up on Internet
- PC giving incorrect date error on boot
- Need to connect a USB scanner to this machine for an office (115 miles away)
I’m remotely supporting the computer though GoToAssist (no they don’t sponsor me – I pay them every month). So what did I recommend?
First, it would be more cost effective for them to purchase a USB PCI controller card and install that rather than paying me to dig around and try to come up with a driver. After all, the computer is at the end of it’s cost effective life cycle really. A $30 card beats $75 paying me, right?
Second, purchase a CR2032 CMOS battery (watch type battery) and replace it.
Both problems solved – and customer very happy. Sure, I could have made more money short-term by feeding the customer a line and making sure I did “all the work”. However, that would not have been “the right thing to do” – and in the end I’ve further strengthened my client relationship for long term gain.