How would you handle this situation

[atlanticjim]

I didn't even charge for the time I put into fixing them.

When I was starting out, I had a hard time charging for all my work, too. The mental device that I used was the analogy to a good car mechanic that I trust. If there is a problem with the work or parts after I get the car back, he has to fix it for free. If it is something unrelated, I have to pay. I just had a call back after a home network job cause the XBox would not connect. No problem, but I charged for the call cause they never mentioned an XBox when I was there the first time.

Sure it can be a computer problem, what about memory corrupted by magnetic fields.

Was the client wearing her TinFoil Hat at the time of the problem?

Hmm...
You asked if I tested it before returning it to the client. In the original post I said I was USING the computers. I used them for over 12 hours playing around getting them set up (installing OpenOffice and other applications from Liberkey on them) and opening them.

For some jobs, I run BurnInTest after I am all done, just to stress the machine and prove to myself and the client that it works. If I do that I also print out a report sheet after the test. And put it on the bill.

Remember that when you are installing free software, the client will assume that you are going to support it as well. Don't get caught in that trap. Even if I load some utility, I delete all traces of it before delivery. I don't add any freeware to anyone's computer except AVG free and that only if the client insists on a free AV solution.

So now she's satisfied,

\
Tell us, did she call the TelCo and get new copper to the door?

I am glad that it worked out, and I hope you have caller ID so you can take her calls on YOUR terms.

 

[atlanticjim]

Would anybody mind sending me a diagnostic sheet they use?

I made up this one, and I take detailed notes.

Computer Worksheet

 

[manderso]

Never thought I'd use this again, but back in the day I did over the phone ISP support. People would call in all the time getting disconnected left and right, usually due to poor phone lines, or poor modems. You can't do anything about the phone lines, but the modems ...

http://www.modemhelp.org/inits/

Find the particular modem you're using, enter init string after init string to see if you can keep the connection alive.

Good luck. We're all counting on you.

 

[MichianaComputers2]

Repairs unpaid for

Send her a bill for all the repairs you did for her on the computers. The real value of the repairs don't try to be nice by charging less. Then give her a deep discount if she pays the bill within 30 days.