Experience
The Early Years
I got started with computers when I was in the eighth grade. That was in 1989 for those keeping track. Watching my uncle set up our new family computer (MS-DOS based), I learned the necessary DOS commands to move around and get things done. Creating new directories, loading software (which was a task back then), writing batch files, etc. That was the super-fast computer of its day touting 12MHz processer and a 40MB hard drive. Yes, that's megabytes!!!
Windows came out which was based on MS-DOS. It was popular because it allowed users to use a Graphical User Interface ("GUI") to operate an MS-DOS based computer. Then came Windows 95 which integrated the user-friendly GUI into the operating system and not merely an operating environment like Windows 3.1 and earlier versions.
My family never upgraded until Windows 98 when we bought our second PC. This was the system I started really experimenting with. I tried tweaking it and making it run faster and more stable. Naturally, there were a few times (OK, several times) that my tweaking left the machine inoperable. Oops!
In the name of self-preservation, I decided each time that it would be best to figure out the issue and fix the computer myself, preferrably before anyone noticed that it wasn't working. By poking around in the directories, settings, and operating system, not to mention reformatting hard drives to do a complete system reinstall, I learned a lot about what makes PCs tick and where many of the settings are hidden.
Network and Systems Administrator With a Side of Programming
Eventually, I took over the Information Technologies Department at my workplace. I was responsible for maintaining the integrity of the company network as well as the servers and individual computers connected to it. Tasks included eradicating viruses, hardware/software installation, and general troubleshooting.
There, I took a workshop on Miscrosoft Access. Building on that knowledge, I have taught myself how to create full-blown Microsoft Access Applications. At that workplace, I designed and programmed an Access Database Application that the Production Manager uses to manage workflows and keep production on track. Next, a real-time Tool Crib application was needed to alert Purchasing when tooling was low. I also designed and programmed many small applications for automating tasks or utilities using Liberty Basic. I have also taught myself how to create websites with basic HTML/XHTML/CSS.
Why I Started A Small Business
At Wit's End Computer Solutions, LLC
With my knowledge of computers, it was astounding to me how many times I heard friends and family tell me of their computer service woes. For example, someone had brought his computer to a computer service shop after the house had been struck by lightning. The computer was completely unusable as it wouldn't even start. This shop, who will remain unnamed, quoted $566.00 to replace the motherboard, processor, RAM, power supply, fan, and hard drive. That didn't sound right to me. Power supply units are designed to "blow" under a power spike to save the other components inside the computer. I offered to look at it. Sure enough, even though the company's written diagnosis indicated that ALL of the aforementioned parts were now unusable, it was, in fact, only the power supply unit that needed to be replaced. All the other components were perfectly fine and usable.
So, after several other similar stories, I decided that the computer repair industry needed to have some honesty thrown in. It appears that honesty is still appreciated; lo and behold, I now have a steady clientele that is comfortable enough to call with any questions and refers their friends and family to me as well.
Dissolving the LLC and Doing Computer Work as a Hobby
Once I realized that the State of NH requires $100 per year to maintain registration as an LLC, I decided to dissolve the business on 12/31/2008. Actually, the State did that for me since I wasn't about to write them a check for $450! I still do all the same computer work, but as a hobby. I operate strictly under my own name. My former business name, "At Wits' End Computer Solutions" is used on this website as reference.
The only difference being a hobby and not a registered company? Now I have to claim any income on the "Other Income" line of my tax form instead of sending in the myriad forms and schedules. Much simpler!
