Have your computer, charger and any equipment involved in the problem available, and make a short note of what has been happening. You do not need to diagnose the fault yourself. Australian Computer Doctors comes to homes and small businesses across the Sunshine Coast to help with both everyday computer problems and hardware faults.

What should I tell you when booking?

Describe the problem in your own words. For example, say whether the computer will not start, email has stopped arriving or the printer works from one device but not another. Mention when it started and whether anything changed just beforehand. If you know the brand and model, include those too, but do not let a missing model number stop you enquiring.

We help with Windows computers and Macs, including hardware repairs, software problems and setting up new devices. You can enquire online or call (07) 5412 1255 to discuss the work and pricing before a visit is arranged.

What equipment should I have ready?

Keep your laptop charger nearby, even if the battery still has some charge. For a desktop, leave the screen, keyboard and other usual connections available. If the problem involves a printer, Wi-Fi connection or external drive, have that equipment ready as well. A clear space around the computer makes it easier to work through the issue with you.

For new computer setup, keep the old device available and make a list of the files, programs and accessories you want to use. There is no need to start transferring everything yourself before the appointment.

Should I back up my files first?

If the computer is working normally enough to make a backup safely, having an up-to-date copy of important files is useful. Let us know if you are unsure whether your photos and documents are backed up. If a drive is making unusual noises, disappearing or repeatedly failing to read files, stop using it and contact us for advice. Data recovery is a separate service and recovery cannot be promised.

What if the problem does not happen during the visit?

A short note of when it occurs can be helpful, such as during a video call or after waking the computer from sleep. If an error is already visible, a photo of it may help explain what you saw. Do not keep forcing the fault to happen or change settings just to demonstrate it. We can discuss the symptoms and investigate from there.

How much time should I allow?

Our minimum labour time is one hour per job, and many jobs need around that amount of time. If more time is required, we bill in 15-minute blocks after the first hour. There are no call-out or travel charges, and onsite time starts when we arrive at your place. Parts are additional if needed.

The time required depends on the fault and the work involved. Once the issue has been diagnosed, we can explain the options and give a more accurate estimate, taking your needs and budget into account. If there is time available within your appointment, mention other computer questions you would like help with.

Do I need to take the computer somewhere?

We normally come to you. If a repair needs offsite work, the technician can explain what is needed and arrange the next step with you. You do not need to choose between an onsite and workshop repair before you know what is wrong.

How do I arrange help on the Sunshine Coast?

Contact us with your suburb, phone number and a brief description of the issue. Our team will call to discuss the work, pricing and arrangements. Same-day service may be available, subject to the schedule. Visit our Sunshine Coast computer repairs page for local services and contact details, or read about email support and hardware repairs if those match the help you need.

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